recommendation for mechanical design 3D modeler

Maybe this has been discussed before, if so I apologize, but I would like to
ask those of you that use other software platforms to do mechanical 3D what
you prefer and why. I have used AutoCAD for many years, and I despise it's
3D capabilities. It is as user UN-friendly as they come. I spend 2/3 of my
time keeping track of which viewport, whuch UCS, which plane I want, etc.,
and little time thinking about the model I'l trying to draw. I have used
Pro E for about 3 years, and while I like what it does, I feel it is way too
expensive to recommend to the boss. I have very limited experience with
Solid Works, but enough to know that it seems to do a decent job of
modeling.

I must have a modeler that is parametric, user friendly 3D, robust 2D and
drawing/printing feature set, and under $5K. Any recommendations? TIA

babygrand

 

Solidworks is the one I prefer but it's about $6,000 including the
subscription for updates etc. $5,000 without. I'ts also very easy to learn.
Another one you could look at which seems to be up and coming is Alibre. It
runs under $2000 I believe. I am going to try a trial for 30 days.

Rudy

 

This subject is often discussed here, and if you do a newsgroub historical
search you'll find opinions from experienced users of just about each one of
the programs. You'll have to find the right answer based on your own needs.

What do you object to in AutoCad 3D? Personally, I find it easy to use, but
not being parametric can be a problem in making changes - you may have to
re-draw. Otherwise, it's not as bad as you seem to say.

Do you have to share files with other designers or firms? What are they
using? One of my main reasons for using AutoCad for general drafting (2D)is
that all the companies I work with are using it. No one has ever come to me
and asked "Can you give this to me in CorelDraw?" Or PCDraft? On the other
hand, for 3D parametric work, I use Mechanical Desktop, and love it, but I
recognize I'm somewhat on the fringe and could effectively share files with
only a minority of other companies here.

 

You might look into Autocad with the third party Autosolids add-on to
give you the parametrics you require.

Relatively inexpensive, Autocad 2D, minimal learning curve if you are
already using Autocad.

One downside is the inability to deal with surfaces and top-down
design.

There are reviews of the product on-line.

jimB

 

Thanks for the comments. I don't think Rhino is parametric, but there may
be an add-on.

Has anyone used AutoDesk Inventor? I understand it's a lot like Solidworks,
fully parametric, about the same price, and I could stay in the AutoDesk
family. Don't know much about it though. Any users out there with an
opinion on Inventor?

babygrand

 

Try SketchUp very advanced

 

Try SketchUp very advanced.
mostly for architecture

 

I agree with Steve, I use Mechanical Desktop, ProE ( wildfire ) inventor and
Autocad.
but Sketchup a very simple program puts them all to shame in 3D. and the
cost is under $500.00
here are some links if you don't beleive me..sit back and enjoy the
tuturials..

http://download.sketchup.com/downloads/training/tutorials50/Sketchup Video Tutorials.html

http://www.sketchup.com/
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