3D modeling software
3D modeling tools rely on a handful of different geometry representations, each with strengths and trade-offs. See 3D modeling geometry types for more on the different geometric paradigms used.
Parametric / History-based
Parametric design is a design method that uses algorithms to shape features based on input parameters, allowing for complex and customized designs. This approach enables designers to modify parameters and instantly see changes in the model.
Many of these also retain the design history, allowing for modifications based on previous actions and parameters. This method enables designers to make complex changes efficiently by adjusting parameters that influence the entire model, ensuring that all parts remain consistent with the design intent.
- Fusion 360: Freemium / Paid. Direct & Parametric modeling. Autodesk's 3D modeling platform for manufacturing, product development, interactive assemblies, generative design, simulation, etc. Integrated CAM.
- OnShape
- Solidworks
- FreeCAD: Free, parametric modeling software
- Antimony: a free, node-based, Functional representation modeling framework
- Shapr3D: Direct Modeling (touch-first) + basic parametric modeling. a 3D modeling app available for on Windows, macOS, iPadOS and visionOS devices. Very intuitive to use on iPad.
Surface Oriented CAD
Surface-oriented CAD refers to techniques that focus on creating and manipulating surfaces rather than solid bodies. This approach allows one to create complex, freeform shapes and is commonly used in industries like automotive and aerospace for aesthetic and functional design.
- Rhinoceros (Rhino): a modeling environment used by architects, jewelry designers, furniture designers, etc. Rhino is primarily NURBS geometry - includes SubD editing and mesh editing
- Grasshopper, a parametric computational modeling environment for Rhino
- Alias
- OnShape also contains surface modeling tools
Freeform / Subdivision / Sculpting
Freeform sculpting in CAD refers to a technique that allows designers to create complex organic shapes and surfaces using tools that mimic traditional sculpting methods, often found in software like Geomagic Freeform and Autodesk Fusion. This approach combines the flexibility of sculpting with the precision of CAD, enabling the design of intricate models for various applications.
- Blender: Open source & free. Polygonal + Sculpting tools. Animation, sculpting, general 3D.
- Maya (Autodesk): Polygonal & Subdivision + NURBS, Film/game asset creation, rigging, VFX
- ZBrush: Character & organic sculpting
- Mudbox (Autodesk): Texture & sculpt refinement
Architectural / BIM
Building information modeling (BIM) is an approach involving the generation and management of digital representations of the physical and functional characteristics of buildings or other physical assets and facilities. BIM in Wikipedia
Specialized
- TinkerCAD (Autodesk) is a free web app for 3D design, electronics, and coding. It's catered to schools and being an introduction to CAD.
- OpenSCAD: Script-based modeling. Programmatic / Parametric parts. Open source.
- Vectary is made for sharing 3D design content through the web in a presentable manner. I've never used this - I'm just vaguely aware of its existence.
CAM
Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) is used to create instructions for Computer Numerical Control (CNC) tools. CNC routers
- Mastercam is the industry standard in CAM software.
- Fusion 360 CAM
Mesh Editing
- Fusion 360 mesh tools
- Rhino mesh tools
- Meshmixer: Autodesk has integrated Meshmixer's tools into Fusion 360 so Meshmixer is no longer being updated. However, I find Meshmixer to still be useful for mesh editing. There are a number of other useful tools such as separating a 3D model into its distinct shells so that they can be exported separately
- MeshLab
Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is designed for design projects. This means anything you mean to design with the goal of it being a physical thing. Fusion 360 excels better in the scale of objects, not buildings.
Tutorials
- Autodesk's Fusion fundamentals - video series
- Lars Christensen's YouTube channel: Has lots of Fusion 360 tutorials
- Intro to Fusion 360 (YouTube playlist, Learn Everything About Design)
- Fusion 360 for beginners (YouTube playlist, Product Design Online)
- Fusion 360 Beginner Tutorials (YouTube playlist, The Fusion Essentials)
- How to Model a Working Mechanical Iris in Fusion (YouTube, Learn Everything About Design)
OnShape
OnShape is a parametric CAD system. That it is cloud-based means one can use it in a mobile context. It allows for simultaneous collaboration on projects. A free plan is available.
Tutorials
SolidWorks
SolidWorks is for use creating and designing 3D models of various products or structures. It is commonly used by engineers, designers, and manufacturers to develop products in industries such as aerospace, automotive, consumer goods, etc. SolidWorks allows users to create detailed models, simulate movements and interactions, and generate technical drawings for production.
Tutorials
3D Modeling in VR
- Gravity Sketch: Pretty decent 3D modeling in VR. Includes SubD (aka T-Splines) modeling. The ability to use gestural movements to derive shapes can yield interesting results. You also then see the resulting model in space around you and can zoom in and out very easily, seeing it in a God's eye view, or an ant's eye view.