Low budget cad for design and build - sharing plans.

[Hairy-Neil]

Originally Posted by Pete's Metal Fab

I'm not sure where we are going with this. If I was trying to come up with the CAD data, I would probably use your friends vehicle/part for that data. If I was just trying to make the parts (for a one time shot), I'd make pattern and gauges from their vehicle/part too. Either way, eventually you could get the information back into a model if that is where you were going.

Short term aim is to restore the existing and build a replica. Long term dream is to build more replicas, hence the need to be spot on with the shape first time.

[Pete's Metalshaping]

This would be a great way to get the information that you'll need for the projects. You just need a part to be to scan/digitize with the Faro.

[Hairy-Neil]

Originally Posted by Pete's Metal Fab

This would be a great way to get the information that you'll need for the projects. You just need a part to be to scan/digitize with the Faro.

Fingers crossed the quote will be realistic and cost effective.

[Pete's Metalshaping]

Let us know what the cost is for this. Like everything else, several years from now, you'll be able to pick up one of these machines for pennies on a ten dollar bill.

[Hairy-Neil]

Originally Posted by Pete's Metal Fab

Let us know what the cost is for this. Like everything else, several years from now, you'll be able to pick up one of these machines for pennies on a ten dollar bill.

I will, and I'll try and post some pictures of the project too when I get my PC working correctly.

[fuel]

There is a program out there that is mainly used for designing. It is called SketchUp. I have never used it, but I ordered a demo copy (poor connection here, so I can't download) and when I get back home in a few months, I'll play with it.

It is supposed to be for architects and designers to use as freely as you would a pencil, but still being able to do "walkthroughs" and views in 3D. If you will look on the website, it shows several different uses; architectural design, mechanical design, set design, etc. This is mainly used to get your ideas down on paper and to view them in 3D. There is no CAM interface.

I have heard that it is much easier to use than other solid modeling programs and that it is much simpler. There is a free download for 8 hours (?). That is supposed to be the actual time you are using the program. Not time since you downloaded it. The price of the software is, I think, $400-500. I am not sure. Anyway, some of you may want to try it out. It may not suit your purposes, but then again it may. Here is the website, www.sketchup.com

FWIW, I have used 2D (Autocad 12-2002, Microstation) and 3D (Unigraphics, very little SolidWorks) and I still prefer to draw parts up on a napkin or piece of paper first. This always helps me think through it a little. I guess I am just old fashioned. I thought about playing with this software and using it in my preliminary designs, before I actually dimensioned everything.

Again, this may be of no use to ya'll whatsoever, but then again, somebody might find it useful.

[Gene_Olson]

I managed to import my bugatti cyclecart file into Turbocad 7 but I can't seem to do much with it.

I wonder if some of the later versions can slice it up. (I think 12 is the current one)

this is a rendering in version 7pro

G.

[Pete's Metalshaping]

Originally Posted by fuel

FWIW, I have used 2D (Autocad 12-2002, Microstation) and 3D (Unigraphics, very little SolidWorks) and I still prefer to draw parts up on a napkin or piece of paper first. This always helps me think through it a little. I guess I am just old fashioned. I thought about playing with this software and using it in my preliminary designs, before I actually dimensioned everything.

Over the years, I have had quite a bit of experience with CAD programs too. I've used Computervision (CADDS 3 and CADDS 4), AutoCad and CATIA. With all of the hours spent at work on a Cads terminals, it is hard to get very excited about learning (spending the hours involved) on something at home for minimal usage.

Several years ago I had a project (test procedure) at work, that I ended up using Canvas to do. I started to use MS Word, but Word couldn't handle all of the graphics that were needed. Most of the stuff that I draw today, is done on an engineering pad or with Canvas 9.

[FriarTuck]

I agree with whose who get frustrated with the learning curve. I have spent hours with TurboCad Pro 10.4, and with my copy of Alibre Designs that we got free last year during their initial giveaway to guys who registered. Both appear to be great programs, but just don't have the grey matter or ability to stick to it long enough to use either for anything practical. Wish I did.

Tuck

[Tony Sanchez]

---Tuck, I agree with you. I have been battling with Solid Works for about six months. Guess that is why I like banging metal so much, just can't get that computer operated electronic gizmo stuff.
---Tony.