Free 3d modeling software

[pjmac]

I am currently looking into free or very low cost 3d modeling software (mostly for assemblies). Does anyone have experience with this. I have heard good things on Blender. Also does google sketch up do assemblies or is that part based?

Thanks,
Peter

[f700es]

Sounds like you need something like SolidWorks or Inventor. Blender is a cool program but it is a subdivision program like 3DMax and Maya. Not really the same as a part modeler with assemblies. SketchUp does not have these either but it does have a very robust component system. Now neither of these are parametric like SW or Inv. There are a few free programs like this out there. One I recently looked at was FreeCAD which might be worth a look. Would Inventor Fusion (comes with AutoCAD 2012) work for you? Perhaps a few other with more experience, like JD can chime in and give some other ideas.
Good luck

[pjmac]

Free Cad look a lot like inventor and solid works. Inventor Fusion would work but I am not a student and don't have the funds to purchase out right. This is simply to practice/play at home.

[f700es]

Do you use AutoCAD 2012? InvFusion comes with 2012. Will your employer let you install it to learn on?

You can download and use Inventor Fusion from AutoDesk and use it until April 1st, 2013. - http://labs.autodesk.com/technologies/fusion/

[pjmac]

I use AutoCad and Inventor 2012 at work but I have no VPN to practice/play at home and am not able to do this at work. Looks like my only option is freecad. thanks f700es

[ReMark]

Are you also looking for a free CAD program as well?

Re: Free modeling software. There is K-3D if you are interested.

K-3D is free-as-in-freedom 3D modeling and animation software. It combines flexible plugins with a visualization pipeline architecture, making K-3D a versatile and powerful tool for artists.

http://www.k-3d.org/

[f700es]

I use AutoCad and Inventor 2012 at work but I have no VPN to practice/play at home and am not able to do this at work. Looks like my only option is freecad. thanks f700es

I listed a link for Inventor Fusion free for a year. Please try that FreeCAD and let us know how it works. Would be good to hear some feedback about it

[f700es]

I tried that K-3D Remark, it is showing it's age. I would have to push someone to Blender over that one Hasn't been updated since 2010 should be a red flag.

Are you also looking for a free CAD program as well?

Re: Free modeling software. There is K-3D if you are interested.

K-3D is free-as-in-freedom 3D modeling and animation software. It combines flexible plugins with a visualization pipeline architecture, making K-3D a versatile and powerful tool for artists.

http://www.k-3d.org/

[ReMark]

f700es: Did you hear anything about Sketchup being sold off by Google to Trimble?

[pjmac]

f700es: Did you hear anything about Sketchup being sold off by Google to Trimble?

I also heard that. Leads me to believe that google could have something else up there sleeves.

And i will test out free cad and report back