CAD (Computer Aided Design)

Introduction to CAD

CAD or computer aided design allows us to use computer to generate 3D structures that we can then either laser cut or 3D print. CAD is an invaluable tool for prototyping and, as such, there is a large number of software programs out there to assist with this process including Sketchup, Solidworks, AutoCAD, Blender and more.

For reasons of simplicity we suggest using FreeCAD (linked below) to develop your objects if you prefer 3D manipulation as a way of creation. If, instead, you prefer using code to generate objects we suggest playing with OpenSCAD, a programming language for physical objects. Whatever you use, to produce files that a 3D printer can print the file must be output in .stl format. Then you can transfer the file to the 3D printer computers using a USB stick.