A free CAD modelling editor which can assist in creating drawings and objects in both the 2D and 3D space with drawing tools.
FreeCAD is a free and open-source 3D computer-aided design (CAD) software application. It is intended for use in mechanical engineering, architecture, and other fields that require the creation of detailed 3D models.
The user interface (GUI)
The user interface of FreeCAD is designed to be user-friendly and easy to use, with a layout that is similar to other 3D CAD software applications. It consists of a main window with a series of toolbars and panels for accessing different features and settings.
In the main window, you can see a 3D view of the model that you are working on, as well as a series of toolbars and panels that allow you to access different tools and options. For example, the "Model" panel allows you to select and edit the components of the model, and the "View" toolbar allows you to change the view of the model, such as by zooming or panning.
The main window also includes a series of tabs and panels that allow you to access different features of FreeCAD. For example, the "Part Design" tab allows you to create and edit 3D solid and surface models, and the "Drawing" panel allows you to create 2D technical drawings of the model.
The menu bar at the top of the window allows you to access various features of FreeCAD, such as the option to import or export models or to customize the settings of the application.
What you can do with FreeCAD
3D modeling: FreeCAD allows you to create and edit 3D models of objects, including components, assemblies, and construction details.
Part design: FreeCAD includes tools for creating and editing 3D solid and surface models, such as for creating mechanical parts or architectural components.
Assembly design: FreeCAD allows you to create assemblies of multiple parts and to visualize the relationships between the components.
Drawing creation: FreeCAD includes tools for creating 2D technical drawings of 3D models, such as dimensioning, annotations, and views.
To sum it up
Overall, FreeCAD is a powerful and feature-rich 3D CAD software application that is suitable for a wide range of design tasks, such as mechanical engineering, architecture, and more. As an open source application, it can be modified and distributed by anyone.
The user interface of FreeCAD is well-organized and easy to use, making it straightforward to create and edit 3D models and technical drawings.
Features of FreeCAD
- Assembly: Create digital assemblies of parts and components.
- CAD exchange: Import and export various CAD file formats.
- Direct editing: Make changes to existing geometry directly, without having to modify the source objects.
- Drafting: Create technical drawings and documentation.
- FEM: Perform finite element analysis on models.
- Mesh: Create and modify 3D meshes.
- Parametric modeling: Create parametric objects that can be edited and modified at any time.
- Part design: Design parts for 3D printing or engineering applications.
- Path: Generate toolpaths for CNC machining.
- Path simulation: Analyze toolpaths for machining operations.
- Python scripting: Automate tasks with Python scripts.
- Raytracing: Generate photorealistic images with raytracing.
- Render: Generate photorealistic images and animations.
- Sheet metal design: Create flat patterns for sheet metal parts.
Compatibility and License
FreeCAD is available for free and released under the open source GPLv2 license on Windows from 3D design. The license provides the options to freely download, install, run and share this program without any restrictions. The source code for FreeCAD should be freely available and modifications are certainly permitted as well as the option to inspect the software.
What version of Windows can FreeCAD run on?
FreeCAD can be used on a computer running Windows 11 or Windows 10. Previous versions of the OS shouldn't be a problem with Windows 8 and Windows 7 having been tested. It's only available as a 64-bit download.
Other operating systems: The latest FreeCAD version from 2024 is also available for Mac.
Filed under:
- FreeCAD Download
- Free 3D Design
- Open source and GPL software
- Portable Software
- CAD Editing Software
