Popular options for 3-D software
AutoCAD
Longstanding and well-known
- Efficient user interface
- Annotation scaling
- Dynamic blocks
- Parametric drawing
- PDF Integration
Autodesk ImageModeler
This image-based modeling and photogrammetry software enables architects, designers and entertainment content creators to generate 3–D models from 2–D digital images. The software’s easy-to-learn, three-step workflow—calibration, modeling and texturing—enables users to achieve stunning, photorealistic 3-D models with real-world accuracy and export them in different formats to other Autodesk products.
Autodesk Inventor
The Inventor Suite product line combines Autodesk Inventor 3D mechanical design software and AutoCAD Mechanical software to help cost-effectively take advantage of a digital prototyping workflow.
- Create a single digital model that gives you the ability to design, visualize and simulate your products
- Cost-effective and easy to learn
- Provides a flexible set of software for 3–D mechanical design, product simulation, design communication, routed systems and mold design
Proliner by Prodim USA
Prodim International is the maker of the acclaimed Proliner 3–D/2–D measuring device. The mechanical wire measuring mechanism, which is attached to a pen, allows the user to capture both 2–D and 3–D polylines in a matter of seconds. The onboard touch screen allows the user to instantly view and edit the drawing file. You are then able to transfer the DXF/CCD via a USB flash drive directly into your CAD/CAM system.
ProSail
CAD and CNC plotting and cutting machines are designed to receive the pattern information from a computer and with a very high degree of precision automatically plot (draw) it out directly on to the textile or sheet of material that has been laid out on the cutting table.
Currently, ProSail has two CNC machine configurations, the ProSail Mkll Plotter and the ProSail Mklll Plotter/Cutter. Each is custom built for the client to suit their application and requirements. ProSail Machines are sold as a package that includes the nesting software and either PanelMaker, a powerful pattern design program, or ProSail Head/Main, a 3–D sail design program.
Rhinoceros (Rhino)
Popular and affordable
- Uninhibited free-form 3–D modeling
- 3–D warehouse to let users search for models made by others
- 2-D drafting, annotation and illustration
- Large project organization
- Customization
- Unrestricted editing
- Short learning curve
SketchUp Pro 7
A suite of applications for modeling, rendering and animation, and putting together presentations
- Designed to be easy to use
- 3–D warehouse to let users search for models made by others
- Import and export files in a number of 2–D and 3–D formats
- Fast and reliable
- Custom templates
SolidWorks
Good tool to model product components
- Range of simulation products for design validation
- Mechanical CAD
- Work group product data management
