Re: Looking For something

--- In CAD_CAM_EDM_DRO@yahoogroups.com, "Michael" <djmickyg@h...>
wrote:

> Hi,
> I'm looking for a cad program to make simple 3d models of metal
> structures.
> The structures won't be of any great size, only things such as

bike

> frame, roll cages, etc.
> I would like something with pre defines metal's such as flat,

round

> tube, square and so on, and also do be able to place holes, taped
> holes, slots and build the model 3 dimensionally using things such

as

> bolts, welds and screws.
>
> Is there anything out there that is like this?
>
> Thanks for your help
> Mick

Why 3D? are you going to use 3D machining techniques on these or is
this for illustration? Are you looking for full 3D (rotate the
object in space) type functions or an isometric view of the
structure to use in a brochure or assembly drawing? The reason I
ask is that if it's for pure illustration there are lower cost
alternatives to full 3D modeling software.

Being able to build things in 3D prior to bending steel has
advantages but you can do a lot of fit and form in 2D. There is a
pretty steep learning curve on the 3D applications but once you
master them most of the group says you will never go back to doing
2D design.

Autocad has several specialized applications that are aimed at doing
3D type fabrication. They have a whole series. One is
called "Inventor". They ship with a lot of canned shapes and
fasteners. There are others that may have more of what you want in
the way of pre-built objects.

Rhino3D is less expensive but i don't know what kind of canned
objects you can get for it. It will import and use most 3D file
formats and you can import 2D art and turn it into 3d objects.