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June 28, 2016 at 8:14 am
One of the easiest 3d modeling softwares to use is Tinkercad. Click the image to check them out! One of the easiest 3d modeling softwares to use is Tinkercad. Click the image to check them out![/caption]
Whether you’re looking to make a personalized action figure for your kid, or designing a crucial part of a complex machine, after you’ve had an idea your work begins with 3D modeling software. There are plenty of 3d modeling packages available on the internet. Along with these plentiful options comes the eternal question, “which software is the easiest to use?”
Ease of use, along with cost and suitability for your project (ie. can it create the right type of files for the printer you want to use?) is an important criterion when looking for the perfect 3D modeling software for your application.
The following list takes a look at the most accessible 3d rendering software available:
TinkerCAD: For total 3D modeling “noobs”, Autodesk’s TinkerCAD is an excellent choice to begin with. The browser based 3D platform gives you a chance to make 3D geometrical shapes and share them on the web. You can also save your designs as .STL files when preparing to 3D print. Despite the fact that it is somewhat constrained as far features go, TinkerCAD is ideal for beginner experimenting. What’s more, since shapes are the foundations of 3D design, clients can systematically develop designs that start simple and become more and more complex. For motivation, TinkerCAD offers some preset 3D shapes to begin working with, and also has a gallery of completed 3D printable models.
Sculptris: Sculptris is digital sculpting software, which makes it perfect for 3D modeling natural shapes and compositions quickly. Think similar to working a physical lump of clay but inside your computer. In “shape” mode, users alter the cross section geometry of their 3D shape, and in “paint” mode, they can utilize different brushes to make realistic compositions at first try. Sculptris was intended to offer learners the opportunity to find their direction with 3d modelling, and grow into their newly discovered 3D designing abilities. While an incredible choice as a standalone item, motivated clients can move up to ZBrush, Pixologic’s award-winning 3D display program, which comes at the cost of $795.
Another awesome and free choice for novice 3D modelers is 3DSlash. 3DSlash was designed particularly for non-professionals of all ages—including children. 3DSlash presents 3D modeling concepts in a fun and engaging way. In 3DSlash, clients use traditional equipment, similar to mallets or chisels, to edit three-dimensional shapes. The three-stage procedure is easy and fun. The finished 3D model can be shared on the web, or saved as an .STL file for 3D printing. 3DSlash also comes with a range of tutorials which are well worth looking into.
Although these software packages are some of the most user-friendly 3D modeling tools, you will find that doesn’t exempt you from the long, winding process of becoming proficient in using them. It has to be mentioned that, no matter how easy the 3D mechanical engineering software you’re using is, you will have to invest a considerable amount of time and energy to develop your skills and become good enough to create flawless designs.
If you’re time-constrained or simply don’t want to take the trouble, you can always outsource your design needs to a 3D design firm like JCAD. Outsourcing to us will help you save time and effort, and get the job done reliably at wallet-friendly rates based on thousands of hours of design experience. Give us a call or request a quote today and find out how we can help deliver your next project.
Jason Vander Griendt is a Mechanical Engineering Technician with years of experience working at major companies such as SNC Lavalin Inc, Hatch Ltd. Siemens and Gerdau Ameristeel. He is the CEO of JCAD – Inc., a company he started in 2006 after seeing a gap in the market for businesses who could assist clients through the entire product design and manufacturing process.
Jason has been featured in Forbes, has had his businesses analyzed and discussed in multiple start-up books, was a previous winner of the Notable8 Digital Innovator of the year award, and is a regular guest on business panels and podcasts. Email Jason at jason@jcadusa.com or follow him on LinkedIn.