CAD/CAM for Everyday People

Online repositories of shared 3d models:

• Thingiverse: “MakerBot’s Thingiverse is a thriving design community for discovering, making, and sharing 3D printable things. “
• SketchFab: “Sketchfab is the leading platform to publish, share and embed interactive 3D content, anywhere online. “
• Google 3d Warehouse: The Google company’s database of 3d models
• 3D Content Central Free 2D and 3D CAD Models run by the makers of SolidWorks

Online tools for CAD/CAM:

• BoxMaker: designing laser cut finger joint boxes made easy
• AutoDesk 123 Make: “3D meets DIY.  Turn your amazing 3D models into even more amazing do-it-yourself projects. “
• GearMaker: Online tool for designing Gears
• Involute Spur Gear Builder: can generate DXF files to import into SolidWorks or Rhino

References for designers:

• CNC Joinery: Read all about it
• Curved/Bending hard materials with Laser Cutter: Read all about it
• Google Books: 507 Mechanical Movements
• Google Books: The Engineer’s Sketch-book of Mechanical Movements, Devices, Appliances, Contrivances, and Details

Awesome Little Free (or almost free) Programs:

• Pepakura: Origami tool; unfold complex 3d objects and cut out of flat material
• Meshlab: Opensource/Multiplatform mesh manipulator
• SketchUp: “The easiest way to draw in 3D”
• Grasshopper: Parametric design for Rhino