Getting Started with CAD
Getting Started with CAD
Section titled “Getting Started with CAD”Getting Started with CAD for Drone Parts
Section titled “Getting Started with CAD for Drone Parts”If you’re new to CAD (Computer-Aided Design) and looking to design drones or their parts, several options are available depending on your needs and experience level. Below is a guide to help you choose a CAD program, with specific recommendations for military personnel or veterans.
Summary
Section titled “Summary”If you’re looking for a CAD program for drone and parts design:
- SolidWorks is ideal for military veterans, thanks to its affordable $20/year offer and professional capabilities.
- Fusion 360 is a popular choice for hobbyists and professionals. It stores all files in the cloud.
- OnShape offers cloud-based flexibility for users who need easy collaboration or professional-level features without installing local software. It is entirely cloud-based with no local installation required.
CAD Software Comparison
Section titled “CAD Software Comparison”| Software | Cost | Platform | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| SolidWorks | $20/year (veterans) | Windows | Professional-grade design, veterans |
| Fusion 360 | Free (hobby) / Paid | Cloud + Desktop | Hobbyists, small businesses |
| OnShape | Free (limited) / Paid | Cloud only | Collaboration, no local install |
| FreeCAD | Free | Windows/Mac/Linux | Open source enthusiasts |
| TinkerCAD | Free | Browser | Beginners, simple designs |
File Format Tips
Section titled “File Format Tips”Beginner tip: STEP files save much more detailed/user-friendly data than STL when exporting for another person or post-processing with a slicer for 3D printing.
- STEP (.step, .stp) - Best for sharing editable designs between CAD programs
- STL (.stl) - Standard format for 3D printing, mesh-based
- 3MF (.3mf) - Modern 3D printing format with color and material support
Related Pages
Section titled “Related Pages”- Fabrication - Main fabrication hub and community files
- 3D Printer Recommendation - Recommended printers for getting started
- Unmanned Systems - Drone and UAS resources
Resources
Section titled “Resources”- Printables - Free 3D print files
- Thingiverse - Large library of 3D models
- GrabCAD - Engineering CAD models