For the laser cutter we only needs a free 2d CAD solution. Most of the time we create SVG files as this tool holder in Inkscape and send the SVG files with K40Whisperer to the laser. When a lot of parts have to fit on a single sheet we use the open source software deepnest.io to arrange the parts in a space saving way.
Where to dow. If you need to work or learn how to use a CAD program, without spending too much money on a professional program like Autocad or others, you can use one of these free programs that provide all the functions of a CAD program.
- NanoCAD is a CAD application for 2D and 3D engineering drawing and drafting. The software has AutoCAD-like interface and directly supports the format DWG. NanoCAD is used for the creating and editing of vector primitives (graphic elements) and more complex objects (blocks, dimensions and etc.).
- Since 1999, CADToolsOnline.com has specialized in 2D and 3D discipline specific AutoCAD, Bricscad and Draftsight block libraries professionally drawn in accordance with common industry standards.
Here is a list of the top 10 free programs to download for Windows PC, Mac and Linux for technical drawing in both 2D and 3D projects.
List of Free CAD Programs for technical drawing
FreeCAD
Free CAD is an open source program for Windows, Mac and Linux that directly addresses the engineering and design of products for mechanical use.
It can also be used for architectural projects or other engineering sectors based on 3D modeling. Tampermonkey chrome extension.
Although free, FreeCAD is considered as an alternate of other popular CAD programs thanks to its ability to create real 3D solids, support for networks, 2D drawing and many other professional features. The program is modular therefore expandable with many extensions.
NanoCAD
NanoCAD is one of the best free and unlimited solutions for creating 3D CAD drawings.
Its most important feature is the native support to the DWG format which is then that of Autocad.
This means that a DWG file created with nanoCAD can be sent to other people who can then open it with Autocad without having need to convert.
Sculptris
Sculptris is a free 3D graphic design program for Windows and Mac.
Easy to use, it's not really a technical drawing program, but a software to draw 3D models like sculptures or figures.
As the name of this small software recalls, it serves to create virtual sculptures. In practical terms, it means that with Sculptris you can draw three-dimensional figures but not animations as you can do with the more complicated Blender.
SketchUp
https://ameblo.jp/78eriram-nzj/entry-12649614252.html. SketchUp is one of the most popular 3D modeling programs used primarily for architectural works and other niches in the 3D project industry.
The program for Windows and Mac is complete and professional with all the tools included for free. You can also see the galleries of works done to understand that there are no limits of using this program.
LibreCAD
LibreCAD is a free, open source CAD drawing program for Windows, Mac and Linux.
A complete tool that is proposed as an alternative to Autocad. LibreCAD can be used for all 2D architectural engineering drawings, to design mechanical parts, for construction, simulation, interior design, creative design and diagramming.
DraftSight
DraftSight is another free 2D CAD editor for professional CAD users, students and teachers, to work on DWG files.
The program is perfect for those who prefer minimal and simple CAD software. DraftSight can be downloaded for Windows, Mac and Linux.
OpenSCAD
OpenSCAD is a 3D modeling platform ideal for engineers, to design parts of machines using script programming. So there is no button interface and it is only for programmers. When will call of duty 4 come out. https://ameblo.jp/920tercmeceonal8/entry-12649631240.html.
Kicad
KiCAD is a free design tool for drawing printed circuit boards (PCBs), for Windows, Mac and Linux.
QCAD
QCAD is available for all computers to create technical drawings of buildings, mechanical parts or even diagrams.
Autocad Online
Since it is open source, QCAD is modular and extensible. Its 2D CAD platform is powerful yet easy to use even for a beginner who has little or no experience.
2d Cad Online Tool Download
3DCrafter
3DCrafter is a simple 3D modeling program that works simply through drag and drop. It is used to create animated models by drawing scenes in real time.
Cloud Citrix VDI
Get an easy and handy access your CAD software anytime on any device by loading it onto high performance Cloud Citrix VDI powered by Apps4Rent with excellent support.
Other guides on CAD:
Conclusions
For an engineer or architect AutoCAD is essential, since it is the main work tool. But if you are still at university or have multiple computers to work on, you can very well install one of the programs recommended in this guide, so that we can still work on 2D technical drawings and 3D projects without spending much on the various AutoCAD licenses.