## CAD Tools Comparison This week focuses on exploring multiple modeling environments. My primary goal is to model parts related to my **Final Project** while comparing software I am comfortable with (Fusion) against open-source alternatives (FreeCAD, Blender). **Planned Workflow:** - Option A: Fusion + Blender - Option B: FreeCAD + Blender
## Autodesk Fusion Fusion 360 is my "comfort zone" for mechanical design. The workflow is highly intuitive for standard geometry. 1. **Sketch:** Open Design Space and initiate a sketch. 2. **Geometry:** Define shapes and apply constraints/dimensions. 3. **Extrude:** Solidify the 2D sketch into a 3D part. 4. **Export:** Save for manufacturing or further artistic rendering.
Fusion 360 Modeling Process
## FreeCAD (Parametric Workflow) FreeCAD offers powerful parametric control via spreadsheets. While the UI feels less "fluid" than Fusion due to autosnap behaviors, it provides a very transparent way to manage variables. ### Step-by-Step Parametric Setup 1. **Spreadsheet Workbench:** Switch to the spreadsheet area. 2. **Define Aliases:** Enter parameter names (e.g., `width`, `length`) and set their **Alias** (crucial for referencing). 3. **Units:** Set cells to specific properties (mm, degrees). 4. **Sketcher:** Reference these cells in the sketch constraints using `Spreadsheet.AliasName`.
Observation

Navigating the Sketcher was initially challenging. Using CTRL while drawing lines helps by enabling fixed value increments (+/- 10 degrees).

FreeCAD Parametric Spreadsheet
## Blender *Documentation in progress for mesh-based organic modeling.*
## 2D Overview: Vector vs. Raster Comparing **Adobe Illustrator/Inkscape** (Vector) and **Photoshop/Photopea** (Raster). ### Adobe Illustrator & Inkscape Used for creating scalable workflow diagrams. Vectors are essential for laser cutting and high-resolution documentation. ### Photoshop & Photopea Photoshop is the industry standard for raster work, but **Photopea.com** is a phenomenal browser-based alternative that mirrors the PS interface perfectly—ideal when working in lab environments without local software.
## Final 2D Results
Raster Graphic Result
Raster Poster created in Photopea
Vector Graphic Result
Vector Workflow Diagram in Illustrator
## Global Lecture: Computer-Aided Design - **Raster vs Vector:** Understanding the math behind pixels vs. paths. - **GUI vs Scripting:** Exploring Antimony and OpenSCAD for code-based geometry. - **Hierarchical Modeling:** Importance of sub-assemblies. | Category | Tool | License | |:---|:---|:---| | Vector | Inkscape | Open Source | | 3D Parametric | FreeCAD | Open Source | | 3D Mesh | Blender | Open Source |

Project Files & References

Design Files
External Refs