3d cad programs. The best free mobile CAD software on the world market. The best CAD systems in the CIS

From the editor's website: We are publishing a shortened translation of the recently published article by Curt Moreno, “Free CAD Software for Mobile Devices”. The author positions himself as a freelance writer, a professional AutoCAD specialist who has been working with this system since 1990, and also a regular speaker and teacher at Autodesk University.

In a rather lengthy introduction, Curt Moreno reminds us of the explosive spread mobile devices and gives an authoritative forecast: this year the number of such devices will exceed the population of the Earth. The author then explains that mobility penetration has not bypassed the CAD industry and provides examples of applications already seen.

It further clarifies that mobile systems should be distinguished from full-scale CAD systems that operate under traditional operating systems on laptop computers. Kurt Moreno reports that in his submission comparative review Only those CAD applications are considered that:

free,
mainly used for viewing and editing CAD files,
written for Android and/or iOS,
downloaded from official sites like Apple App Store or Google Play Store
allow finger control using the touchscreen interface
work via mobile telephone networks or Wi-Fi.

The author cites a series of very obvious circumstances and recommendations that should be taken into account when choosing a mobile CAD application, and also draws the reader’s attention to the explicit and implicit problems of using mobile CAD systems. Such problems include: the risk of using data storage in the clouds, which is inevitable for mobile systems, small screen size and indirect costs, for example, associated with non-free mobile communications.

Finally, Kurt Moreno reports that for review he selected seven systems available on the Google Play Store and Apple App Store, which have a fairly complete set of characteristic qualities and were created by well-known companies. In testing the selected systems, the author was guided by the following criteria, grouped into four categories (columns in the table below).

1. Interface. To what extent is the user interface natural and user-friendly?

2. Tool set. Is a full set of viewing and editing tools provided (if editing is provided in this application)? Does the application provide only the generally accepted basic features or some additional ones?

3. Teamwork opportunities. Does the application provide mechanisms for easy file sharing and/or synchronous/asynchronous collaboration capabilities? How easy is it to import and export drawings?

4. Ease of operation. Is the app designed to be easy to use for both newbie and veteran? Does it enable the user to achieve reasonably high productivity?

It is noted that the breadth of the range of file formats was not assessed, since many systems were developed for users of specific CAD systems.

AutoCAD 360 v2.2 (Android)

Mobile editor. Level A.
Advantages: works with standard DWG files, generates and sends PDF and DWG files by mail, provides an excellent touch interface, includes online storage.
Disadvantages: allows files no larger than 10 MB, less controllable with a stylus than with your fingers.
Price: free
Autodesk, www.autodesk.com

AutoCAD 360 is available for both Android and iOS. Installing the system, downloading files from desktop computer and creating new files (extremely simple in the Pro and Pro Plus versions). Although the interface of AutoCAD 360 bears little resemblance to the interface of desktop versions of AutoCAD, it is very intuitive and easy to learn. The app ran smoothly and responded quickly to finger controls.

AutoCAD 360 allows users to open a variety of file formats and use basic CAD functionality, which is available in the toolbar at the bottom.

Annotation Toolbar in AutoCAD 360

The free AutoCAD 360 is a well-developed CAD application for mobile devices that provides the ability to open and view a variety of file types, including DWG, DXF, PDF and JPG, and also allows users to annotate them. There are also model analysis tools, such as distance and area calculations, coordinate support, and basic support for layer functionality. Users can change unit types and save to PDF or DWF, then automatically share the results with colleagues. e-mail. Free version supports PDF and DWF files, but file size is limited to 10 MB. Users can view and edit files located in the included 5 GB file storage.

AutoCAD 360 Pro and Pro Plus extend the functionality of AutoCAD 360 with added drafting capabilities, model analysis tools, layer management tools and saving as DWG. Users have access to a library of blocks, object properties, and other functions. Cloud file storage has been increased to 25 GB and 100 GB, and maximum dimensions files up to 30 and 40 MB respectively. Price for Pro versions is $4.99 per month or $49.99 per year, and Pro Plus costs $99.99 per year.

Navigator Mobile v4.00.01 (iOS)

Mobile CAD viewer. Level: A-

Advantages: reliable tool for working with construction data, virtual display of construction projects.
Disadvantages: implemented only for iOS, no functions for tagging or commenting;
Price: free
Bentley Systems, www.bentley.com

Perhaps the Bentley Navigator Mobile is just what professionals working in the architectural and construction industry need. This program is more than a simple CAD viewer, it is a powerful tool for field work with construction information.

The object properties window in Navigator Mobile can compete with many desktop applications

The property data management functionality is done in the most robust way we've seen in a mobile solution and can easily compete with many desktop applications. Accessing, modifying and creating model views is intuitive. Navigation of the 3D view is easy to operate and quickly responds to standard multi-touch input.

While Navigator Mobile does not support DWG or DGN files, it does use so-called i-models, which can contain information from any AEC application. Users publish i-models using free plugins that can be downloaded from http://www.Bentley.com/iWare, or any Bentley product, or by accessing them through ProjectWise Explorer Mobile or Field Supervisor.

CadFaster Collaborate v2.0.3 (iOS)

Mobile CAD viewer and collaboration tool
Level: B
Advantages: combined model viewer and collaboration tool; real-time screen sharing capabilities.
Disadvantages: Requires expensive desktop plugins, no support for standard formats, implementation only for iOS.
Price: free plus the cost of desktop plugins.
CadFaster, www.cadfaster.com

CadFaster Collaborate is a mobile CAD viewer aimed at the 3D AEC and MCAD markets, but is particularly good as a collaboration tool. Users can view and comment on BIM models, including through online screen sharing. And all this without any CAD on a PC or iPad. CadFaster uses a desktop CAD plugin for this, which exports either EXE files or iPad-compatible files.

Left: CadFaster's file directory interface makes it easier to find your current drawing.
Right: CadFaster offers great real-time collaboration capabilities.

One of the disadvantages of CadFaster is its high price. While CadFaster for mobile devices is free, desktop plugin licenses range from $189 to $389 for an annual subscription. Another concern is the EXE format for files, as many IT departments consider them potentially dangerous.

However, CadFaster should soon be replaced by MyCadbox 2.0, which will probably eliminate the noted shortcomings.

cadTouch v5.0.0 (Android)

Mobile CAD editor
Level: A-
Advantages: wide range of tools, DWG, blocks, raster mode support.
Disadvantages: only DWG/DXF is supported; 3D is still in beta status, there is no access to the camera.
Price: free
cadTouch Software, www.cadtouch.com

CadTouch is a free mobile CAD editor that has a lot to offer the advanced CAD user. It is available for Android and iOS.

cadTouch toolbars are very easy to use.

The free version of cadTouch comes with more than 20 blocks in its library.

Viewing drawings is very intuitive, with support for multi-touch interfaces. The free version supports standard DWG and DXF formats, as well as PDF and JPG.

CadTouch Pro ($19.99) is similar in functionality and appearance to the free version. However, it does unlock export functions that include DWG, DXF, PDF, and PNG formats.

TurboViewer v1.5.0 (Android)

Mobile CAD viewer
Level: B-
Advantages: opens native DWG/DXF files, easily customizable viewing modes.
Disadvantages: Unintuitive controls; 3D rotation is difficult to perform.
Price: free
IMSI/Design, www.imsidesign.com

The version for iOS provides functionality for making notes, but the version of TurboViewer for Android, which was analyzed as part of this article, does not have such capabilities. (They're expected to be available late August 2014.) The app was fairly responsive and it was fairly easy to configure 2D and 3D views.

TurboViewer in 2D mode

TurboViewer in 3D mode

TurboViewer allows you to view various file types and includes DWG/DXF support. The TurboViewer Pro ($19.99) version adds viewers such as x-ray with transparency levels, customizable perspective view and materials. It also supports layer management tools.

eDrawings Viewer v2.0.1 (Android)

Mobile CAD viewer
Level: A-
Advantages: Opens a wide range of 2D and 3D file formats.
Disadvantages: No markup tools in free version; lack of visual style control.
Price: free
Dassault Systèmes SolidWorks, www.solidworks.com

Mechanical CAD professionals can't do better than eDrawings Viewer from SolidWorks. In the category of mobile viewers for the engineering industry, eDrawings Viewer looks great.

The application is easy and simple to install, it is responsive to both opening files and touch control, it supports SolidWorks files and native DXF and DWG formats. The system showed good performance, but during testing on the iPad 2 it broke down quite often.

Output and co-editing options in eDrawings Viewer

eDrawings Viewer provides the ability to view an assembly in "exploded" mode

The application is available as a free and professional version for Android and iOS. The free version provides the ability to view multiple component mechanical assemblies with stunning eDrawing rendering, animation, and assembly explode functions.

The Pro version can be purchased for $7.99, which allows you to make dynamic sections.

ZWCAD Touch v1.3.0 (Android)

Mobile CAD editor
Level: B
Advantages: a very complete set of tools, very similar to desktop CAD, the ability to voice comments.
Disadvantages: limited set of supported formats, no functionality for defining object properties
Price: free
ZWSOFT, www.zwsoft.com

Desktop CAD users may find it difficult to move from the regular user interface to more modern touch interfaces. Luckily for them, there is ZWCAD Touch from ZWSOFT, which will definitely appeal to many users with a “desktop” experience. This mobile CAD editor is quite functional and is available for Android and iOS.

ZWCAD Touch offers many of the same tools available in other desktop CAD programs.

The ZWCAD Touch 2D interface offers well-known annotation capabilities.

ZWCAD Touch responds quite quickly to multi-touch input for scaling or rotating. The ability to save the model is limited to the DWG format.

ZWCAD Touch's main feature is its ability to store and play back voice memos attached to drawings, a functionality that will clearly appeal to those working in the field with their hands full.

The idea was born in my head from our poverty of our needs. For those who have decided to master some kind of CAD, it would seem that the choice should always be obvious - it should be the same CAD that is used at the enterprise where you work, or want to work. The reasons why it is difficult to make a choice may be different, for example, all lazy people will have the question: “What is easier to master?” or “Will it work on my computer if I want to do something in a certain quantity?” The choice may also be influenced by the presence of the necessary functions in the program and, as strange as it may sound, the price. These and perhaps some other questions are answered under the cut.
PHOTO!!!

Heroes of the occasion:

Of course, there are many more CAD systems, but we would not have enough time or energy to present them all to you. Meet the chosen ones.

Briefly about each. Advantages and disadvantages:

Autodesk AutoCAD- one of the most common CAD systems, in addition to just the version called Autodesk AutoCAD, there are a number of specialized ones, such as: AutoCAD for Mac, AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Civil 3D, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD LT, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Plant 3D, AutoCAD P&ID, AutoCAD Raster Design, AutoCAD Revit Architecture Suite, AutoCAD Revit MEP Suite, AutoCAD Revit Structure Suite, AutoCAD Structural Detailing, AutoCAD Utility Design. Older versions are not very demanding on hardware, but starting from the 2010 version, working on a computer from 2006 will be somewhat difficult. It was also noted that AutoCAD 2010-2012 obviously works slower on integrated Intel chips, as we will later see, both in 3D and 2D. Even the weakest GPU, which minimally meets the requirements of AutoCAD, for example on an NVidia 200 Series chip, saves this situation.

Autodesk Inventor– CAD is mostly oriented towards mechanical engineering, and the 2D part of the program is so poorly developed that it leaves much to be desired. Almost the entire set additional utilities is presented only in the 3D part of the program, while in 2D we have to be content with only associative views and a minimal set for drawing. The shortcoming in 2D is fully compensated by AutoCAD Mechanical, which in turn is focused on the design of drawings. Inventor's hardware requirements are both small and at the same time quite high. It all depends on what you want to "design". I can’t say how things are with versions below 2010, but, as in the case of AutoCAD, you need a more serious computer.

DSS SolidWorks– a very good system, it has a fairly clear interface, I don’t find anything out of the ordinary in it, but I can’t note the ability of this program to recognize the construction tree of third-party CAD systems, as well as to upset fans of freebies, the pirated version is a little crooked. Draw conclusions.

ASCON COMPASS 3D– CAD, popular, probably, only in Russia. Its main advantage will be an initially Russian interface (although previous systems do not suffer from this), and a very extensive library of the GOST standard. If in the case of AutoCAD, if the performance on an old computer is not satisfactory, it is possible to install an older version, then in the case of KOMPAS, this will not be advisable, because system requirements, have not changed much since version 5. Another advantage is the ability to save work in old version, because Most systems, due to the peculiar company policy, do not have such a function.

Guinea pigs Tested machines:

Test performed:

In general, nothing complicated.
All program settings regarding graphics will be based on the quality of rendering, but with a minimum of visualization (later we will try to solve some problems and show how).
We will set a task for our experimental subjects that is quite simple, from the point of view of implementation - an array of springs.

By gradually increasing the array, you will be able to see how the program lives under different loads. Note that the spring itself is one of the most complex primitives, if it can be called such, therefore, the results will be given with a margin.

Before the test, I want to stop a little and tell you briefly what the machines being tested are, for those who are not very versed in components and terminology in general.
Dividing computers into workstations and home computers, it is implied that the set of components in the former will have somewhat specific parameters, names and prices (usually higher). Workstations, in turn, can also be divided into a fairly large tree, because each type of work requires something different; we will not consider them in this article and will highlight only representatives who are called graphics stations. What distinguishes these graphic stations from regular computers? The answer is very simple, in most cases it is only the presence of a professional graphics adapter. In principle, from any powerful gaming computer you can make a graphics station simply by changing the video card, but there is one “but”. Graphics stations are a tool on which tasks are performed, in particular cases these are engineering, responsible, complex, quite labor-intensive (and, as a result, highly paid) and this tool must satisfy the user not only in speed of operation, but also in reliability and peculiar resistance to failures, and when the manufacturer produces components intended for professional work, he asks for the appropriate price for them, therefore, for the work to satisfy you, simply changing the video card to a professional one may not be enough.

Professional graphics for CAD systems today are represented by 3 companies:

NVidia (Quadro and Quadro FX series)
ATI(AMD) (FirePro series)
Intel (integrated graphics in Xeon E3, E7 family processors)

Manufacturers have sincerely “promoted” their products (read all this on the official websites), but in reality a terrible truth is revealed. Those of you who are curious enough have probably noticed that the above-mentioned companies in professional graphics use the same graphics chips as in gaming and budget video cards, and for the most part they ask us for money (and not small ones) only for higher quality manufacturing and optimization of the software part, i.e. drivers. But, sad as it may be, to increase productivity you will have to buy what is offered, and to what extent it is advisable, everyone will decide for themselves.
Regarding laptops, we will have one representative each from the business and home series.

And so, here we go:

Xeon
It showed quite decent results, performed the last test with simplification, was able to use two threads in the processor load, but the video card load was only realized by about 50 percent. In the tinted cascade test it showed better results than other systems.
To complete the test, 747 Mb RAM was needed

FX580
Oddly enough, the results are not much lower than those of the previous machine, however, it is worth noting that if the load on the processor was similar, then the video card gave it its all. Also a very unusual “zhor” in random access memory– 2390 meters.
To complete the test, 2390 Mb RAM was needed

i7 Intel HD
Surprisingly, the results of the first 4 tests are similar to those on the “FX580”, but the 50/50 test was carried out with simplification, just like the last one.
To complete the test, 624 Mb RAM was needed
2 threads used

GTX460
Despite the manufacturers’ statements and the fact that the processor is not i7, but i5 and the previous generation, the result is higher than that of the “second” and not much less than the “first”. Presumably there will be less stability, but overall the result is quite surprising.
To complete the test, 652 Mb RAM was needed

DualCore
The last 2 tests failed. The system froze and could not build the array. I was honestly given 30 minutes to build, but alas, I still didn’t get the result. The results of other tests are significantly lower. And in general, the conclusion is that the computer is not suitable for working in CAD systems, incl. We will not refer to this test in comparisons.
To complete the test, 358 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

ATI
The last 2 tests failed, the system was unable to build the array. The results of the others are lower, and one cannot expect satisfactory performance on large assemblies. The load on the card was 100% throughout the entire test.
To complete the test, 301 Mb RAM was needed

i5
Almost identical results with the third machine (i7 Intel HD)
To complete the test, 598 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

Xeon
Performance is on par with Inventor, while the system load was only 25% for both the video card and the processor (one thread).
To complete the test, 412 Mb RAM was needed

FX580
To complete the test, 434 Mb RAM was needed

i7 Intel HD
It produced results below, but not noticeable for perception.
To complete the test, 715 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

GTX460
To complete the test, 517 Mb RAM was needed

DualCore
To complete the test, 290 Mb RAM was needed
2 threads used (doubtful)

ATI
Although I could not build only the very last test, the 50 to 50 and 100 to 100 tests were performed with simplification, the remaining tests showed performance on par with other machines (with the exception of DualCore)
To complete the test, 388 Mb RAM was needed

i5
To complete the test, 526 Mb RAM was needed
2 threads used (doubtful)

Xeon
Like AutoCAD, it could only load one thread. The average load on the video card is 50 percent, like previous systems - it failed the 100 to 100 test, and almost failed the 50 to 50 test.
To complete the test, 196 Mb RAM was needed

FX580
Produced almost identical performance. The load on the video card has also increased.
To complete the test, 177 Mb RAM was needed

i7 Intel HD
It showed the same result as on all previous machines, it feels like it doesn’t need a video card at all.
To complete the test, 268 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

GTX460
… no comments.
To complete the test, 168 Mb RAM was needed

DualCore
To complete the test, 98 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

ATI
The test failed 50/50 and 100/100, otherwise as usual.
To complete the test, 186 Mb RAM was needed

i5
Failed the test 50/50 and 100/100.
To complete the test, 132 Mb RAM was needed
1 thread used

Xeon
It turned out to be the most voracious, although like the 2 previous systems, it used the resources of only one thread, used almost 100% of the video card, and showed comparatively better results in the test with tinting without a frame.
To complete the test, 323 Mb RAM was needed

FX580
The results were almost 2 times lower.
To complete the test, 279 Mb RAM was needed

ATI
The presence of a discrete card has yielded results, but one cannot expect satisfactory performance in assemblies of more than 100 parts.
To complete the test, 261 Mb RAM was needed

Conclusion on comparison of CAD systems:

Inventor: can use multitasking, which is definitely a plus, is demanding on RAM, in any case, used it more than all the others, showed good performance on integrated video cards, but used only half the resources of the Quadro 4000. (There is an assumption that the performance on the Quadro 2000 will be similar , also, there is an assumption that the performance on Radeon gaming cards will be greater than that of Nvidia analogues)

AutoCAD: demonstrated very decent performance, but used fewer resources, from this we can conclude that a configuration higher than the second machine (FX580) does not make much sense.

COMPASS 3D: showed the same performance on the tested stationary machines, the performance increase is almost minimal, incl. Intel HD 3000 will be enough for work, but purchasing professional graphics above Quadro 600 will not be justified. Laptops showed quite comparable results to desktop machines, although the 50/50 cascaded rendering test was not satisfactory.
In general, it is desirable for KOMPAS to have discrete graphics, but when buying a new computer with an integrated HD 3000, it’s worth thinking about.

SolidWorks: perhaps the most demanding CAD for the graphic part, hardware acceleration it didn’t work on integrated cards, which means discrete graphics are required for those who will work with assemblies of even 100 parts (maybe this will be fixed in the 2012 version). On the first machine the result is quite decent, it did better than the others in the 100 to 100 test, but on the other machines the result resembles what KOMPAS showed.

So, if you already have a fairly powerful machine, even a gaming one, feel free to choose any CAD system to study it. Having professional graphics gives you an increase, but there is probably no point in purchasing it if you are not sure that you will work professionally.

If the computer is old, but still more powerful than our “shameful one” (DualCore), then you can also study the work in all systems, but work with large assemblies(more than 100 parts) even with professional graphics, it will be difficult.

The requirements for laptops are more serious, because... It’s more difficult to replace components there, but in general everything is about the same.

For SolidWorks, discrete graphics are a must!

Pro/ENGINEER

CAD/CAM/CAE system. With over 310,000 professional users using Pro/ENGINEER, it is extremely powerful, combining unmatched speed and accuracy. More than 42,000 enterprises around the world use PTC PLM products at all stages of the product life cycle.
The new version of Pro/ENGINEER offers advanced geometry modeling and editing technologies that significantly increase designer productivity, as well as an apparatus for creating photorealistic images of the highest quality. Among them are the creation of three-dimensional layouts in the form of a “point cloud”, dynamic deformation of a three-dimensional model and many others.
Developer - Parametric Technology Corp. , USA.

CATIA

CATIA is a key brand of Dassault Systèmes and the world leader in software products that support design and innovation. Around the world, thousands of companies in a variety of industries use the virtual design capabilities provided by CATIA products to create truly successful products. CATIA solutions address all companies, from OEMs to their suppliers and small and medium-sized businesses.

The CAD/CAM/CAE system CATIA (Computer Aided Three-dimensional Interactive Application) is a fully integrated, universal high-level CAD/CAM/CAE system that allows for parallel execution of the CATIA design and production cycle, being a universal computer-aided design, testing and manufacturing system, widely used at large machine-building enterprises around the world for computer-aided design, production preparation, and reengineering. Functions supported by CATIA/CADAMSolutions: · administration - planning, resource management, inspection and documentation of the project; · the most advanced modeling; · description of all mechanical connections between the components of the object and bringing them into a state of spatial mutual positioning; · automatic analysis of geometric and logical conflicts · analysis properties of complex assemblies; developed tools for tracing communication systems in compliance with specified restrictions; specialized applications for technological preparation of production.
Developer - Dassault Systèmes, (France).

SolidWorks

A powerful mechanical engineering CAD package for solid parametric modeling of complex parts and assemblies. A mid-class design system based on the Parasolid parametric geometric core. Created specifically for use on personal computers running Windows operating systems.
Developed by Dassault Systèmes.

NX

The NX CAD/CAM/CAE system from Siemens PLM Software offers next-generation tools and technologies that are helping to transform product development. Qualitatively new tools allow you to develop products in a single, controlled environment by integrating all processes. NX tools provide more modeling capabilities, flexibility and performance. By combining parametric and treeless modeling with active layout technology to make assembly work easier, NX sets new standards for speed, performance and ease of use.

Unigraphics Solutions, Inc. product series: Unigraphics Solutions, Parasolid, Solid Edge, Unigraphics, IMAN, ProductVision, GRIP.
CSoft.

SolidEdge

Solid Edge is a market leader in computer-aided design systems for mechanical engineering, equipped with unique tools for creating and editing 3D digital layouts. With superior core modeling capabilities and built-in workflows, industry-specific needs, and seamless integration with design management tools, Solid Edge enables accurate, error-free design solutions. Solid Edge's part and assembly modeling tools enable engineers to easily create a wide variety of products, from individual parts to assemblies containing thousands of components. Industry-specific teams and structured workflows speed up design typical elements, and create, analyze and edit assemblies to ensure every part fits accurately and functions correctly. When you design in Solid Edge, your products come together correctly the first time.
Developer - . Additionally - CSoft.

think3

Computer-aided design system for mid-level mechanical engineering. Provides two-dimensional design, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling, design of products from sheet materials, associativity of a two-dimensional drawing with a three-dimensional model, photorealistic representation of the project.
Developed by think3, Inc, USA.

Series of products for design and project data management: CAD 3D and 2D CAD, integrated management product data (PDM) and software interoperability. With a wide range of additional design modules, CoCreate provides speed, flexibility to respond to changes for clients, short development cycles, and an easy design process. The main modules are CoCreate Modeling and CoCreate Drafting.
Developer - Parametric Technology Corp.

KeyCreator

KeyCreator™ is a full-featured software, providing professional designers modern tools to carry out complex design work. KeyCreator allows full editing of both native and imported geometry and supports the creation of complex surface models. Easy to use and create 2D drawings and 3D models.
Developer - Kubotek Corporation, USA.

T-FLEX

The T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM software package combines programs for three-dimensional design, modules for preparing control programs for CNC machines and engineering calculations. All systems of the T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM complex operate on a single information platform of the T-FLEX DOCs PDM system. The Russian software package T-FLEX CAD/CAM/CAE/CAPP/PDM is a set of modern software tools for solving problems of automation of three-dimensional design, design and technological preparation of production of any complexity in various industries.
CAD T-FLEX CAD is a professional design program. T-FLEX CAD combines powerful parametric 2D and 3D modeling capabilities with tools for creating and designing drawings and design documentation. Technical innovations and good performance of T-FLEX CAD, combined with a convenient and intuitive interface, make T-FLEX CAD a universal and effective tool for 2D and 3D product design. Thanks to a wide range of CAD design tools, T-FLEX CAD is best choice to solve any design problems. Designers around the world use T-FLEX CAD in a wide variety of industries: general engineering and instrumentation, aerospace, automotive, shipbuilding, and design and construction organizations. CAD T-FLEX CAD is used both in the design of main production products and in the creation of the entire complex of necessary equipment - dies and molds, tools and fixtures.
Developer – Top-Systems, Moscow.

"bCAD Pro" - software system full design cycle: design, engineering and pre-production for everything that can be made from sheet and profile materials. It allows you to design various products from these materials: furniture, commercial equipment, exhibition stands, pavilions, small architectural forms, as well as the premises in which these products are located, for which they are made: offices, clubs, bars, apartments, etc. ., as well as various elements of such premises: podiums, reception desks, bar counters and much more - are successfully designed in “bCAD Pro”. It is possible to work simultaneously with several projects, combine models into a single project, and arrange the created models throughout an office or apartment. "bCAD Pro" includes the capabilities of all other products in the line: "bCAD Furniture", "bCAD Showcase" and "bCAD Designer". Everything that is written about the capabilities of these products is there. In it you can perform all the same work and create libraries of materials, fasteners and components. The main differences are the ability to create products with profile parts and export information about designs in database formats.
Developer - ProPro Group, Novosibirsk.

COMPASS

One of the leading Russian products. A CAD system designed for a wide range of design and engineering work, easy to learn, convenient to use, and at the same time having a cost acceptable for complex equipment of Russian enterprises, including medium and small ones. Allows for two-dimensional design and construction, rapid preparation and release of various drawing and design documentation, creation of technical text and graphic documents. Developer – , Russia.

DesignCAD Series

DesignCAD is a program that combines easy-to-understand and use 2D drafting with powerful and accurate 3D modeling to achieve amazing results depending on your imagination and creativity. Design has never been easier with the program's easy-to-understand interface and extensive reference library. The program allows you to quickly create the necessary drawings. The program also has the ability to solid-state modeling and create animations and presentations. DesignCAD 3D Max is a versatile CAD tool for beginners and advanced users.
Developed by IMSI/Design, LLC. , USA.

TurboCAD Pro

TurboCAD Pro is a powerful all-in-one tool for professional CAD design. Combined 2D and 3D design can satisfy the most demanding users. The full power of the industry standard ACIS® v8 solid modeling engine coexists with powerful surface modeling to give you maximum capabilities. TurboCAD Prol supports twenty-five of the most popular file formats, including AutoCAD® DWG/DXF, MicroStation® DGN, 3DS, IGEN, STL and more. You also have the opportunity to export your projects to HTML, JPG, MTX. TurboCAD Professional includes realistic rendering, full 3D modeling with shells and lofting.... work with AutoCAD files, the ability to work with the Internet, training programs. TurboCAD is fully customizable, has built-in Microsoft's VBA and is compatible with Microsoft Office. This program also includes a Software Development Kit and a Visual Basic® Macro Recorder. TurboCAD Professional is the newest and most powerful 3D computer-aided design application.
Developed by IMSI/Design, LLC. , USA

IronCAD

Computer-aided design system for mechanical engineering. Provides 2D design and 3D solid modeling.
Developer - Visionary Design Systems, Inc. , USA.

Cimatron

Cimatron is an integrated CAD/CAM system that provides a full set of tools for product design, development of drawing and design documentation, engineering analysis, and creation of control programs for CNC machines. Cimatron satisfies the needs and requirements of a wide range of users, works on various platforms, including personal computers. There are about 6,000 companies worldwide who use the system.
Developer – , Israel. Additionally - on Bee Pitron.

TEBIS

Developed CAD/CAM system. Two-dimensional design and drawing, three-dimensional modeling.
Developer – Tebis Technische Informationssysteme AG, Germany.

VISI Series

Vero product series, developed system: CAD/CAM/CAE Software - Molds, Tools, Wire EDM, Laser Cut. Provides two-dimensional design and drawing, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling, generation of programs for CNC machines, visualization of part processing.
Developer – Vero Software, USA. Watch on-line video.

VX CAD/CAM

Developed CAD/CAM system. Main modules: VX Innovator, VX Designer, VX Mold&Die, VX 3D Machinist, VX End-to-End.
Developer – VX Corporation, USA.

The main product is CADMAX SolidMaster - a computer-aided design system that provides two-dimensional design, three-dimensional surface and solid modeling.
Developer – , USA.

Calculations and analysis

ANSYS

Finite element package. ANSYS, Inc. For 35 years, it has been one of the leaders in the CAE market, developing and offering a wide range of software products for automated engineering analysis. Founded by Mr. John Swanson, the company was originally called Swanson Analysis Systems, and offered only the ANSYS universal finite element package. Later the program gave its name to the company itself. Today, the company is the leader in the settlement systems market both in terms of sales volume and the number of workstations of its software used around the world, and the breadth of the line and applicability of software products: ANSYS, AutoDYN, CFX, Fluent, ICEM, Maxwell ... this is just a short list.

The ANSYS product line is wide and covers all the needs of the designer at all stages of his work, starting with the construction or modification of the geometric and mesh model, then moving on to the effective solution of the problem, and ending with the processing, presentation and documentation of the results.

The main ones in the line of software products are the following, which are tools for solving problems:

ANSYS - strength, thermophysics, electromagnetism
AutoDYN - simulation of highly nonlinear and fast processes
CFX - fluid dynamics
Fluent - fluid dynamics
Maxwell - electromagnetism
DesignModeler - creation and/or modification of geometric models
ICEM is a universal tool for constructing and modifying mesh models
Gambit is a universal tool for constructing and modifying mesh models for fluid dynamics problems

MSC.Software

Pre-production

IMS Software

ADEM

The ADEM system is designed to automate design and technological bureaus, main and technological production shops. Having a modular structure, ADEM can be configured both for solving specific design problems and for end-to-end production preparation. The system includes modules:

ADEM CAD
ADEM CAPP/CAM
ADEM GPP
ADEM Vault
These modules combine in a single design and technological space all known design and modeling methods, preparation of control programs for all types of CNC machine racks. They ensure the integrity of graphic, technological and calculation information, management of enterprise databases, and generation of any reporting documents.
Developer - Omega ADEM Technologies Ltd. Additional Information- Vasily Lovygin, Tomsk. ADEM in Tomsk.

CAD/CAM system, which occupies a leading position in the world in terms of the number of sales and installations of the package among CAD/CAM systems. Provides wireframe and surface modeling of parts, visualization and documentation of simple and complex parts and assembly units, development of control programs for turning, milling, electrical discharge machining on CNC machines.
Developer - CNC Software, Inc. , USA.

Vero Software

Series of products for production: CAD/CAM - computer-aided design/automated process control.
Developer – Vero Software Plc, UK. Additionally - PF "MOLD SERVICE" company.

OCTOPUS

An integrated set of software products will allow you to: automate all processes of preparation and production planning in a short time and with high efficiency; organize work at the enterprise in accordance with international standards; increase speed, quality and productivity.
Developer - SPRUT-Technology CJSC, Naberezhnye Chelny, Russia.

Delcam PLC

Delcam's family of software covers all stages of the production cycle. It combines functionality with the latest technologies in the field of user interface. As a result, a sharp reduction in the design and pre-production stage. Each Delcam product focuses on a specific aspect of the design, production and inspection of complex products and is the most optimal solution in its field of application:

Delcam PowerSHAPE, Delcam PowerMILL, Delcam PowerINSPECT, Delcam CopyCAD, Delcam ArtCAM, Delcam Exchange, Delcam Toolmaker, Delcam Electrode, Delcam PS-Team, Delcam FeatureCAM, Delcam

PartMaker, Delcam Crispin, Delcam DentCAD, Delcam DentMILL.
Developer - Delcam PLC.

SolidCAM

A package for generating control programs for CNC machines when processing parts containing complex surface or solid geometry. Provides 2.5 and 3-axis milling, turning, visualization of the processing process.
Developer – , Israel.

Conceptual design and visualization

Autodesk® AliasStudio™

Autodesk® AliasStudio™ is part of Autodesk's digital prototyping technology and is now known as the Autodesk Alias family of products, which includes Autodesk® Alias® Design, Autodesk® Alias® Surface and Autodesk® Alias® Automotive.

A comprehensive set of tools for the creative design process, helping companies create superior design solutions that drive business success. A program for designers of consumer products that allows you to manage the entire design process: from searching for ideas to handing over finished surfaces to designers. Develop and communicate concepts faster using sketches, 3D models, illustrations, photorealistic renderings, and animations.
Autodesk, Inc.

Helps you quickly develop innovative designs for consumer products. Autodesk Alias is part of Autodesk's digital prototyping technology. The program is used to develop the design of consumer products. It covers the entire design process - from sketching ideas to handing over finished surfaces to designers.
Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk® Alias® Surface

Autodesk® Alias® Surface provides a complete set of dynamic 3D modeling tools that let you transform conceptual models and scanned data into surfaces High Quality for the design of consumer products, as well as in class A surfaces for automotive design.
Autodesk, Inc.

Autodesk® Alias® Automotive

Autodesk® Alias® Automotive is the industry's leading automotive design product and the choice of top automotive design studios around the world. The product provides a complete set of tools for visualization and analysis, covering the entire process of modeling products of complex shape, from creating sketches to obtaining finished class A surfaces.
Autodesk, Inc.

Form-Z

A 2D design and drafting system, 3D surface and solid modeling, visualization and animation for professional design, visualization and engineering.
Developer – Autodessys, Inc. , USA.

Application CAD

Bentley Systems, Incorporated - product series

Bentley is the world leader in integrated software solutions for support and infrastructure during its life cycle, i.e. in the design, creation and operation of buildings, bridges, transport networks, water-heat-energy supply enterprises, water purification, etc.

MicroStation platform products and technology:

Building Analysis and Design
Bridge design and construction
Land management
Cartography
Civil Engineering
Plant design and construction
Conceptual design of industrial facilities
Design and analysis of electricity and gas supply networks
Structural Design and Analysis
Design and analysis of water supply and sewerage networks, etc.

Developer - .

The E3.series system has a modular design principle. It consists of three main modules:

E3-schematic – design module various types diagrams (technological, functional, pneumatic, electrical, single-line, etc.)
E3-cable is a module for designing cable-harness diagrams, as well as external wiring diagrams. Includes functionality of the E3-schematic module
E3-panel – layout and routing module. Arranges equipment in the cabinet (panel, panel, etc.); wire routing in accordance with circuit diagram; cable layout according to cable channels on the site plan.

In addition to the main modules, there are additional ones:
Interfaces for exporting data on harnesses and cables to three-dimensional design and three-dimensional cable layout systems for objects - Autodesk Inventor Professional, SolidWorks, Unigraphics, Catia.
E3-PDF Output – module for exporting a project to vector PDF format. In such PDF file the project structure is preserved; You can search for a product by any attribute; transition through cross-references of products and chains and other possibilities.
Developed by Zuken.

CADSTAR

Developed design and manufacturing automation system electronic circuits And printed circuit boards(PCB CAD). Developed by Zuken.

DEFCAR CAD/CAM

System for design and preparation of production in shipbuilding.
Developer – Defcar, S.L. , Spain.

VUTRAX

Vutrax PCB CAD is a computer-aided design system for electronic circuits and printed circuit boards (PCB CAD).

Planit

Planit CAD/CAM product series - computer-aided design for the wood, stone and metalworking industries: Wood CAD/CAM Software, Stone CAD/CAM Software, Wood CAD/CAM Software.
Developer – Planit, USA.

Design drawing programs can be divided into 2 classes - professional (paid) and simplified (usually free). In addition, programs for creating drawings can be divided depending on the type of activity: CAD, 3D modeling, architectural, interior design, steel structures, calculated, etc. Here are the main ones:

Professional design programs (CAD)

Autocad- one of the most popular two- and three-dimensional design and drawing programs.

SolidWorks- a powerful three-dimensional design complex, often used by professional designers. Full version includes many modules, including calculations.

Inventor- Solid's competitor, also a powerful 2D and 3D computer-aided design system.

KOMPAS 3D- a domestic CAD program tailored to Russian standards.

ThinkDesign 2013 - latest version CAD allows you to solve problems of developing design documentation of varying degrees of complexity. In this case, you can use developments created in other systems (from AutoCAD to CATIA). Languages: multilingual (no Russian).

3ds Max (3D Studio MAX)- a full-featured professional software system for working with three-dimensional graphics, has extensive tools for creating three-dimensional computer models of real or fantastic objects of the surrounding world of various shapes and complexity using a variety of techniques and mechanisms.

CATIA- a full-fledged CAD system, including modules for design automation, engineering data management and collaboration, engineering analysis and digital manufacturing. Product from the same manufacturer that created SolidWorks. Program website

NX(formerly “Unigraphics” or “UG”) - CAD/CAM/CAE system, includes design, industrial design (including automotive), 2D and 3D design, engineering analysis, tooling design and many other professional modules. Widely used in mechanical engineering. Program website

Pro/ENGINEER- full-featured CAD for developing products of any complexity. 3D CAD design. Advanced modeling, drafting, assembly design, sheet metal design, and more. Program website

Free drawing programs

Google SketchUp- This free program for lightweight 3D graphics modeling

FreeCAD is a free and open CAD software for 3D/2D modeling and drawing

LidreCAD is a free CAD software for 2D modeling and drawing

Popular architectural systems and interior design programs

ArchiCAD- intelligent architectural design in 3D space. Program website

ArCon- modern, dynamically developing software tool in the field of architectural design and design, intended for architects, designers, manufacturers of finished houses and furniture, realtors, builders, in a word, for everyone involved in engineering, design and construction.

MAESTRO

Sweet Home 3D is a free program for 3D modeling of architectural structures and interior design

AutoCAD free?
Yes, that's right, AutoCAD, the heavyweight of the CAD industry, offers a free, fully functional version of its product for download. The program is free for students, war veterans, and for anyone who has never worked in the AEC (AEC - The architecture, engineering and construction) industry. There is only one limitation: on any drawing a watermark will be displayed indicating that this drawing was made in the student version.
But not only does Autodesk offer AutoCAD for free, they also offer free licenses for almost all of its software products, such as Civil 3D, AutoCAD Architecture and AutoCAD Electrical. You won't find this anywhere else!
And if you are looking for a CAD system for training or for personal needs, then this is what you need.
2. Google (Trimble) SketchUp
SketchUp is one of the best free CAD systems on the market. The free version has no restrictions and it offers one of the simplest interfaces of any 3D system I've ever seen. Even if you have never worked with any CAD system or 3D modeling program in your life, you can watch a short tutorial, gain the necessary knowledge and master the interface in a matter of minutes.
Of course, if you need detailed drawing, with exact dimensions and tolerances, you will need to spend time learning the program's capabilities. The difference between SketchUp and other systems is its website, which contains a lot of educational videos and trainings that can help you master this CAD system.
3.DraftSight
DraftSight is completely free software and is ideal for individual use. There are no usage restrictions or printing caveats here. All that is required is to activate the product using a valid e-mail address.
DraftSight is, of course, basically a 2D scriber that looks and feels very similar to AutoCAD. The software has everything necessary tools to produce professional looking drawings. DraftSight even uses the .DWG file format as its primary file format, the same as Autodesk products, so you'll be able to freely share your work with others.
4.DraftIt
The free version of DraftIt is a fairly simplified CAD system. I wouldn't recommend it for everyday work, but if someone wants to learn the basics of how CAD systems work, or for example sketch out a sketch of your bathroom, then the system is quite workable. I have to say that one team impressed me: offset. Yes, this is a common command for many CAD systems, but I was amazed that you can simply click the checkbox and drag the object with the mouse wherever you need it. It's really cool, try it.
5. Rhino 4.0
Rhino 4.0 is a 3D modeling system that I found very easy to use. It works with basic bodies and has the ability to use standard reshaping operations to create the 3D objects you need from them. The only thing I didn't like about Rhino 4.0 was the limitations. You can only save 25 files - after that you will not be able to save files. But the system nevertheless remains good tool for practice in 3D modeling.