2. 3D modelling tools
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Free tools are completely free to use with all features.
Freeware tools include basic functionality for free. Additional features may need to be paid for.
Open source tools are developed in a collaborative manner and can be used, modified or shared openly. This software can be used for free and often includes a lot of support documentation.
Paid tools can only be used after purchasing, and agreeing to, a product licence.
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3D modelling combined with 3D scanning allows you to create any object you can imagine or see. This is very useful if you are required to prototype a model for an assignment, or just want to make your own phone case.
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Looking for help with your assignment?
Types of assignments — Digital Essentials module with information on designing 3D models and how to get 3D models.
3D modelling tools
| Tool | Useful features | In-person training | Online tutorial | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| SketchUp | SketchUp is completely free and relatively easy to get started designing and building 3D models. There is no installation required, it loads in your browser. | No | Learning resources from Sketchup. Learning SketchUp Free (LinkedIn Learning, 2h56m). |
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| FreeCAD | FreeCAD is an open-source 3D modeller. You can create a 2D layout and turn it into a 3D design or 3D into a 2D layout. | No | Get started with FreeCad | |
| Autodesk | Autodesk offers a family of products for every type of 3D design. Their offerings include products like AutoCAD, Fusion 360, Inventor, Recap Pro and Revit. We recommend Meshmixer, an intuitive tool for 3D model sculpting, cleaning and designing. | Yes | 3D Scanning with a camera (LinkedIn Learning, 57m25s) - goes through the process of creating a 3D scan and repairing your scan with Meshmixer. AutoDesk Meshmixer manual. |
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| TinkerCad | A browser based 3D modelling tool from Autodesk. | Yes | Learning Tinkercad (LinkedIn Learning, 2h18m) | |
| Blender | A free, fairly complex 3D modelling program with great functionality. | No | Blender 3.3 Essential Training (LinkedIn Learning, 5h1m) | |
| Meshlab | Open source 3D model processing, editing and converting software. | No | Meshlab tutorials | |
3D photogrammetry and reality capture tools
| Tool | Useful features | In-person training | Online tutorial | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3DF Zephyr | 3DF Zephyr allows you to easily construct 3D models from photographs. | Yes | Getting started with 3DF Zephyr | |
| VisualSFM | VisualSFM is a 3D reconstruction application, that allows you to use photographs to create 3D models. | No | VisualSFM documentation | |
| Meshroom | Meshroom is a completely free and open source photogrammetry program which has specialised algortihims to allow you to construct 3D models using photographs | No | Tutorial: Meshroom for beginners | |
| Agisoft Metashape | Metashape (formerly known as Photoscan) is a very powerful photogrammetry program, with many extended features such as GIS integration | No | Agisoft tutorials | |
