New Free-to-download CAD tool to bring 3D design to everyone

Allied Electronics (Allied) and RS Components (RS), the trading brands of Electrocomponents plc has introduced DesignSpark Mechanical, a new 3D solid modelling and assembly tool that is available to all -- totally free of charge.

Mark Cundle, Global Head of Technical Marketing at RS Components introduced the DesignSpark Mechanical

 

The software package is, says RS, free, fast and intuitive, opening new possibilities from concept design through to manufacturing.

Screenshot of DesignSpark Mechanical's user interface (click to enlarge)

 

Developed in conjunction with SpaceClaim, the new easy-to-use DesignSpark Mechanical is intended to overcome the prohibitive costs and the considerable investment in learning time associated with traditional 3D CAD tools. RS says, its simplicity of use means that engineers and others involved in product development can become fully conversant with the software within minutes, rather than the weeks or months required to become skilled with traditional 3D CAD tools. And it is available in multiple languages.

Direct modelling methodology

DesignSpark Mechanical employs a powerful methodology called 'direct modeling', which is very different from traditional feature- or parametric-based 3D CAD software. The tool uses simple gestures that enable real-time editing and instant feedback, making it possible for engineers and others to create geometry and easily explore ideas and product concepts in 3D.
All basic designs can be achieved quickly and easily via the use of the software's four basic tools – Pull, Move, Fill and Combine – you can quickly create 3D objects, manipulate shapes, grab and drag faces and/or edges, set levels of transparency, and you can also combine/merge objects, fragment them, and perform Boolean operations on them. In addition you can use a few familiar Windows keyboard shortcuts such as cut/paste, undo/redo within a drawing or between drawings.

Online 3D models library

The DesignSpark online component library gives all engineers a free access to more than 38,000 3D models, and each of these free-to-use models is available in 24 different formats. RS Components has also collaborated with world-leading 3D content company TraceParts to provide access to millions of models from the online tracepartsonline.net CAD portal in DesignSpark Mechanical's format.

Exported in STL for 3D printing

3D designs can also be exported in STL, the standard file format to enable rapid prototyping builds and computer-aided manufacturing, in addition to providing the ability to quickly obtain Bill-of-Materials (BOM) quotes via the Allied and RS websites. The tool can also import circuit layout files in IDF format from any PCB design tool.

A decoiler's installation (click to enlarge)

The software can also be used to:

• produce highly detailed dimensioned models and assemblies
• create professional concept designs to assist in your bids
• remove bottlenecks by making amendments and additions to your design in seconds, rather than waiting for the CAD department to rework in history-based CAD tools
• combine your creation with off-the-shelf components from RS Components and the Allied Electronics 3D library

DesignSpark Mechanical will be available for free download via its site from 16 September 2013.