So, you're new to 3D CAD modeling software...
Thanks to the user friendly nature that´s present in a myriad of softwares that are available to help make our lives easier through apps and countless new technologies, there are now numerous 3D design softwares (also called CAD, or computer-aided design), including many that anyone can use for free without needing to undergo very much, or any, formal training. Such variety really does make plenty of sense as many of them consist of modeling tools that have already been in use for a number of years now in fields such as architecture, product design and so many other ways that we as consumers don´t even consider. Mathematical representations have ensured detailed production at the industrial level and have given customization of all kinds a big boost.
Computer programs are used to provide definition and sleek appearances to the electronic devices we use on a regular basis around the home, and more. And while there are a great many college educated professionals who use these kinds of 3D CAD modeling programs to provide the world evermore modern and nuanced sky scrapers, aircraft and models for most everything we use to decorate our world, its a form of expression that is reaching more and more laypeople everyday. All you really need is bit of imagination and a somewhat of a clear idea of what it is exactly that you wish to make appear before your eyes. We´re talking about an interesting and immersive educational journey in which one acquires a real intuition for the 3D designing process.
3D Scanning & Modeling software: more user friendly than ever
After all, it is the in the best interest of the many companies that develop software, if they do want to succeed in the marketplace, to make their products easy to both use and understand. Indeed, they are often intuitive, especially if you´re familiar with photoshop and drawing programs, and are sure to leave you playing around on your computer for hours, trying out all sorts of neat tools, developing aesthetic objects and figuring out what exactly it is that you can make.
The first thing you need to know about what to look for in these types of 3D CAD modeling programs and how to go about exploring one that will work best for your interests is understanding that they are pretty much split into two basic groups, at least in theory. These are engineering, so for instance the kind that´s necessary in the construction of all the newest auto parts, and artistic realizations the most popular of which is sculpting. However, many people still make the mistake of buying the wrong one, which is to say that they find it hard to use, one that they have to adapt to much more than they would like instead of it being the other way around.
The Perks of Being a Rookie
The best thing about being a newcomer to this kind of design is that most all of the simplest software is absolutely free and you can try a whole bunch without having to drop a single dime. This may come as a bit of a surprise as they can range up to 5,000 dollars, and at such a level are astoundingly capable of intricacy. A great thing about being able to try new ways of designing is that the experience can be quite enlightening and is sure to help stimulate yourself creatively in novel ways that you have yet to consider. You can amount a considerable amount of perspective to then be able to consider a variety of possibilities and approaches to a particular idea that you want to bring to life, be it through a 3D printing process or just on your computer screen.
If you´re completely unfamiliar with computerized design, such as photoshop, it really pays to take the time to make sure that you choose a designing program that features an informative introductory tutorial that can walk you through every step of the way, that utilizes a language that you can understand and familiarize yourself with. While these are mostly found in programs that are meant for newcomers to this type of originalist instrumentation you can nevertheless gradually progress through more and more complex software that offer this type of educational assistance. You may also want to consider a course in graphic design, they are easy to find as this is a popular area with many interested parties.
There are many names that these design files go by, CAD being the most common. At any rate if you´re planning on printing what you create on screen just make sure that the model in question is ultimately robust so that it won´t break down during the manufacturing process or even after completion.
Once you get a clear idea of how to handle and make use of designing software you can start to decide which of the two main distinct methods best serves your particular needs or plans. 3D modeling may be divided into the parametric and explicit approaches of defining 3D geometries. The former pertains to very professional and often industrial applications that in turn require a lot of dimensional specificity. These types of programs often offer the possibility of creating relationships between different design elements, for example between a building and a street as may be the case with city planning. They can also keep track of a design project´s history, for instance if you would like to make variations. This may also help you to go back and correct any mistakes that ended taking you down a wrong path.
What makes the explicit approach exceptionally artist friendly is that it serves as the more flexible option as far as being able to make constant little changes without them affecting the model as a whole. They may be described as easier to use in this sense.
Here’s a resource to CAD modeling software to help you get started.
Our team at Arrival 3D can help expedite your current or upcoming projects. (Meet our CAD modelers, Constantine and Alexander.)
For any and all of your 3D scanning, modeling, and software solutions, Arrival 3D has you covered.