this post was submitted on 19 Oct 2024
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FreeCAD
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Your own 3D parametric modeler.
FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects of any size. Parametric modeling allows you to easily modify your design by going back into your model history and changing its parameters.
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I’ve used it to pattern cuts for a laser cutter.
While it’s possible it’s very buggy especially with curvy designs. There’s a function called Flatten to SVG which helps with this step but it requires a lot of tuning of the model, to get the export right.
A great example is a hole in the design, perhaps for a button. If done wrong the button hole is the main solid and the rest of the design is not solid. Plus you’ll have so much extra lines that cleanup is not fun.
For me I need to do it this way since the pattern is mated to a 3D print so having every 1:1 is a must. But if you are doing it for other reasons, I would look elsewhere.
Tech drawings is another way to export an design too if you want to go through with it anyways.