Good, free 3d modeling software for cab design ???

[Skeleton]

Is there any good, free 3d modeling CAD software that is good for cab design? It also has to be somewhat easy to use, without a steep learning curve. I don't want to spend too much time learning new software since I have very limited time to work on cab building.

I'm trying to build a countertop cab and some good 3d modeling software would be very useful to see how everything will fit inside since space constraints are very tight.

[ErikRuud]

I use POVRay and MORAY for 3d modeling.  They work together.  They are jnot really CAD programs though, so I don't know if thet will meet your needs.

I created the 3d control pamnel in this image using them.

[Jakobud]

Download the new learning version of Maya from

www.aliaswavefront.com

Or the learning version of Softimage

www.softimage.com.

Both are completely free and have all the basic tools that the full $16,000.00 versions have.  They just have some crazy watermarks built into the render engine, but since you won't be rendering anything, it should work good for you.

Also, try to find a program called Blender.  Their website used to be www.blender.nl, but last I checked, they were not offereing the program to be downloaded anymore.  Anyways, thats another free program for Windows/Linux, etc.

Or try Discreet's   gMax.  The free stripped down version of 3dsmax (which sucks by the way).

jakobud

[1UP]

I use 3dsmax, it's simpler to use for architectural stuff in my opinion than Maya or Softimage, which are more high-end character animation/effects packages.  Haven't tried gMax.  For doing simple geometric modeling for cabinet layout, it's probably adequate.

[)p(]

I agree with 1-up that 3dsmax is very good for more constructional design...you can find example 3d models of cabs in max format at http://3darcade.mameworld.net


By the way great website you have 1-up!  

Peter