[757labs] Cad Design Interest - SketchUp and/or AutoCAD Modeling

[Beau Turner]

A few people have asked questions related to using Google SketchUp and/or
AutoCAD (for Solid Modeling).  Between the two applications, they vary quite
a bit in what they can do as well as the tools and interfaces. If you are
interested in taking the first class in the lab for this, please reply back
so we can gauge interest. If there is enough interest we will pick a
day/evening in October to make it happen.

Background if you are unfamiliar:

   - SketchUp is a free (also a paid version) application that can be used
   for all kinds of design (think tiny or large) and has been used on several
   projects at the lab already (1). Base product being free, the integration to
   Google Earth and its simple UI make it attractive but do not let that fool
   you, it is powerful and can be extended using Ruby scripting. This software
   works on Windows and Mac only at this time.
   - AutoCAD is a paid application, known as the most common cad platform
   out there (closed source wise). This is an industry standard type of
   application, and originally the flagship product from a company called
   Autodesk (they make or acquire other design and manufacturing related
   software as well). This software works on Windows and Mac only at this time.


Expectations:

   - 2 hour session that will start with one product, give you the working
   basics, Q&A, etc.. then move to the other design package
   - At the conclusion of this you will be proficient and familiar with the
   applications to create and work with your own designs
   - This will also tie into the next 3D Printer (Makerbot) session, once
   you can design your own items you can print prototypes and usable pieces


Note:
Both applications are available within the lab on the graphics machine if
you do not already have a copy.


Keep up the great work,
BT


(1) Steve Nelson work on the death ray design, building and interior layout
project, Leroy for the Makerbot and Laser Cutter, DJ Mad Mike for some
button designs and Makerbot, BT for 90% of the Makerbot custom designed
objects you see printed, etc...
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