SolidWorks/FreeCAD Practice: 3D Modeling from Technical Drawings | Extreme SolidWorks

SolidWorks/FreeCAD Practice: Complete 3D Modeling from Workshop Drawings

📅 Estimated Time: 45-60 minutes per drawing
📐 Skill Level: Beginner to Intermediate
🎯 Goal: Develop technical drawing reading skills and 3D modeling proficiency

🎯 Introduction to the Exercise Series

In this comprehensive practice series, we'll use 10 workshop technical drawings with complete dimensions for 3D modeling practice in SolidWorks or FreeCAD. This exercise is perfect for:

• 💡 Beginners wanting to practice technical drawing interpretation
• 🔄 Experienced users looking to sharpen rapid modeling skills
• 🎓 Students preparing for CAD examinations
• 🏭 Engineers maintaining and developing design skills

📐 Workshop Drawings for Practice

Here are 10 technical drawings we'll use in this exercise series. Click on each image for larger view:

Drawing 0011: Bracket with Multiple Holes

Features: Linear patterns, hole features, fillets
Difficulty: Easy

Drawing 0012: Complex Section View Part

Features: Section views, advanced dimensions
Difficulty: Medium

Drawing 0013: Bent Tube Profile

Features: Sweep features, bend radii
Difficulty: Easy

Drawing 0015: Angular Bracket

Features: Angular dimensions, R40 radius
Difficulty: Medium

Drawing 0016: Complex Assembly Part

Features: Multiple features, R8 fillets, complex geometry
Difficulty: Hard

Drawing 0017: Symmetrical Housing

Features: Symmetry, linear patterns, A20 annotation
Difficulty: Medium

Drawing 0018: Sectional Bearing Block

Features: Section views, R1 fillets, complex cuts
Difficulty: Hard

Drawing 0019: Simple Mounting Plate

Features: Basic extrusion, hole patterns
Difficulty: Easy

🔧 Step-by-Step Modeling Approach

1 Analyze the Technical Drawing

Before starting modeling, carefully analyze the drawing:

• Identify main dimensions and tolerances
• Study all views (front, top, side, isometric)
• Note all holes, cuts, fillets, and chamfers
• Understand material specifications
• Identify datum references and critical features

💡 Pro Tip: Use different colors to highlight various features on the drawing before starting modeling. This helps in planning your feature tree.

2 Create Base Sketch in SolidWorks/FreeCAD

For SolidWorks Users:

1. File → New → Part
2. Select appropriate plane (Front, Top, Right)
3. Start 2D Sketch
4. Use Line, Circle, Rectangle tools
5. Add Smart Dimensions from drawing
6. Apply geometric relations (Horizontal, Vertical, Equal)
7. Exit Sketch → Extruded Boss/Base

For FreeCAD Users:

1. Create New → Part Design
2. Create Body → Create Sketch
3. Select appropriate plane (XY, XZ, YZ)
4. Use geometry creation tools
5. Add Constraints (dimensions)
6. Apply geometric constraints
7. Pad (extrude) the sketch

3 Add Secondary Features and Details

After base extrusion, add all secondary features:

Hole Features: Use Extruded Cut or Hole Wizard

Fillets & Chamfers: Add edge treatments

4 Advanced Features and Final Touches

Add advanced features according to drawing specifications:

SolidWorks Advanced Features:
- Revolved Boss/Base for rotational parts
- Swept Boss/Base for complex paths
- Lofted Boss/Base for transitional shapes
- Mirror and Pattern features for symmetry
- Reference Geometry for complex alignments

🎯 Modeling Strategies by Difficulty

Difficulty	Recommended Approach	Time Estimate	Key Challenges
Easy	Single sketch + extrude + basic features	15-25 minutes	Basic dimension interpretation
Medium	Multiple sketches + features + patterns	30-45 minutes	Feature order, relations management
Hard	Complex sketches + advanced features + sections	45-60+ minutes	Section views, complex geometry

⚡ Advanced Modeling Techniques

Parametric Modeling

Use parameters for easier modifications:

// SolidWorks Equations Example
"D1@Sketch1" = 100mm
"D2@Sketch1" = 50mm
"fillet_radius" = 5mm
"hole_pattern_count" = 4

Design Tables & Configurations (SolidWorks)

Create different variations of the part:

• Configuration Manager → Add Configuration
• Different dimensions for each configuration
• Different materials and appearances
• Suppress/unsuppress features

Assembly Techniques

For multi-part drawings:

1. Create individual parts
2. New Assembly → Insert Components
3. Apply Mates (Coincident, Concentric, Distance)
4. Check for interference
5. Create exploded views if needed

📊 Accuracy Verification Checklist

After completing each model, verify accuracy:

Parameter	On Drawing	In Model	Verification Method
Overall Length	As specified	Measure Tool	✅ Correct / ❌ Incorrect
Hole Diameters	As specified	Measure Tool	✅ Correct / ❌ Incorrect
Fillet Radii	R values	Fillet Feature	✅ Correct / ❌ Incorrect
Material Volume	Calculate	Mass Properties	✅ Within Tolerance
Center of Mass	N/A	Mass Properties	✅ Logical Position

💡 Efficiency Tips for Professional Modeling

🔥 Pro Tip 1: Always use "Fully Defined" sketches in SolidWorks (sketch should be black, not blue) to avoid unexpected changes.

🔥 Pro Tip 2: Use geometric relations (Horizontal, Vertical, Equal, Parallel) before adding dimensions to reduce constraint complexity.

🔥 Pro Tip 3: Properly name features in the FeatureManager design tree for easier later modifications and team collaboration.

🔥 Pro Tip 4: Use Design Binder or Custom Properties to store drawing numbers, revisions, and other metadata directly in the part file.

⚠️ Common Mistake: Avoid over-defining sketches. If a sketch turns red, you have conflicting constraints or dimensions.

📁 Download Resources

Download all resources for this exercise series:

• 📐 PDF with all 10 workshop drawings
• 🎯 SolidWorks part files (.sldprt)
• 🔄 FreeCAD files (.FCStd)
• 📊 Accuracy verification checklist
• 🎥 Video tutorials for each drawing
• 📋 Modeling strategy guide

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which SolidWorks version do I need for these exercises?
A: Any version from SolidWorks 2018 onwards. Some features might vary slightly.

Q: Can I use these drawings for commercial projects?
A: Yes, all drawings are free to use for personal and commercial purposes with attribution.

Q: How do I verify my model's accuracy?
A: Use Mass Properties tool in SolidWorks or FreeCAD to check volume and surface area against calculated values.

Q: What if my model has different mass properties than expected?
A: Check for: 1) Incorrect dimensions 2) Missing features 3) Extra features 4) Wrong material density settings.

Q: Should I model exactly as drawn or optimize the design?
A: For practice, model exactly as drawn. In real projects, always consider design optimization and manufacturability.

📈 Next Steps After Mastering These Exercises

After completing these practice drawings, we recommend progressing to:

1. 💼 Assembly Drawings - how to assemble multiple parts
2. 🎨 Photorealistic Rendering - creating professional visualizations
3. 📋 Technical Documentation - creating workshop drawings from 3D models
4. 🔄 Animation & Motion Study - moving parts and mechanisms
5. 🏭 Manufacturing Preparation - CAM integration and DFM analysis
6. 🌐 Collaborative Design - working with teams using PDM systems

🎉 Congratulations!

You've successfully completed a comprehensive series of 3D modeling exercises from workshop drawings. Continue practicing with the remaining drawings and challenge yourself with increasingly complex designs!

💬 Discussion & Community

Have questions or want to share your models? Leave a comment below! Join our community of CAD professionals and enthusiasts.

Tags: #SolidWorks #FreeCAD #3DModeling #CAD #Engineering #Tutorial #TechnicalDrawing #WorkshopDrawings #PracticeExercises #MechanicalDesign

Share your results: Post screenshots of your models on social media with #ExtremeSolidWorks

10 SolidWorks Exercises So Hard They Should Be Illegal (Free Download 2025)

Stop scrolling if you think you’re “pretty good” at SolidWorks.Here are 10 parts that silently destroy 95 % of self-proclaimed “advanced” users:

• One has a loft that changes cross-section three times and follows a 3D spline nobody can get right on the first try
• One is a spoon that looks easy… until you try to make the thickness change from 6 mm to 1.5 mm without a single lump
• One is a pipe with five 90° bends that must stay perfectly Ø42.4 × 2.6 mm all the way (good luck keeping the wall thickness)
• One flange elbow will make you question your entire life choices when the section view doesn’t match

I modeled all of them in SolidWorks 2025, took screenshots of every critical step, and made fully dimensioned drawings that you can actually send to a workshop.Want to separate yourself from the crowd who can only do simple brackets?Download the pack (10 × .SLDPRT + 10 × .SLDDRW + PDF + all step-by-step images)
100 % free – no sign-up, no nonsense.Just click the big blue button at the end, unzip, and try not to rage-quit on part #4 Engineers who finished all 10 told me two things:

1. “I thought I knew SolidWorks… I was wrong.”
2. “My boss now thinks I’m a wizard.”

Your move.

Enjoy

Final result – complete technical drawing: Main view, section A-A showing variable wall thickness (20 mm → 40 mm), all radii (R4, R30, R65, R50), overall dimensions and isometric view of the finished part.

Bearing housing end cap (separate part): Start with a simple revolved boss/base from the provided sketch (Ø95 outer, Ø58 inner bore, Ø52 seat, Ø36 shaft bore, 8 mm wall thickness). Add 2.5 mm fillets on all edges and a 2×45° chamfer on the shaft exit.

Tensioning lever arm (separate part): Model using extruded base (50 mm height), extruded boss for the Ø60 mm rounded head, swept boss for the curved arm profile, M6 tapped hole + Ø12 counterbore, two Ø12 through holes and R10/R25 fillets. Final part is mirrored for left/right versions.

Adjustable pipe clamp bracket: Base extrusion from rectangular sketch, two Ø20 circular bosses, Ø10 through holes, 18° angled slot (extruded cut), Ø30 central bore, R20 and R40 fillets on edges, plus small R1 chamfers. All features fully defined for easy modification.

Main curved roller support bracket (the hardest part): Created using Lofted Boss/Base between two sketches (30×20 mm rectangle → 40×40 mm rectangle) with a 3D spline guide curve (R30 + R65 + R50). Central Ø50 mm swept cut along the same path for the roller tube. Finished with R4 fillets on all outer edges and variable wall thickness shown in section A-A.

Machined base block: Rectangular extruded base 200×100×90 mm, large central pocket with 45° and 150° angled faces (extruded cut), Ø12 through hole, curved slot created with swept cut, Ø25 counterbore + Ø12 hole on top face and several fillets/chamfers.

Curved sliding block (Modeling Practice 67): Extruded base 100×75×65 mm, large R20 and R25 rounded top surface using Swept Boss or Boundary Boss, tapered sides with 5 mm wall thickness, R15 fillet on front edge and 5 mm chamfers on bottom edges. Great exercise for advanced surfacing or multi-contour sweeps.

Bent tubular frame (Ø42.4×2.6 mm pipe): Created using Sweep Boss/Base along 3D sketch containing five straight segments and four 90° bends with R60 radius. All bends fully defined in the 3D sketch, table lists exact segment lengths and bend angles – perfect exercise for 3D sketch + sweep + weldment structural members.

Spoon with organic shape and variable thickness: Created using Lofted Boss/Base with five section profiles (from R10 circular bowl to thin 6 mm handle), guide curves for smooth transition, R40/R20/R10 fillets along the edges and variable wall thickness shown in sections. Excellent practice for complex lofts and surface blending.

 90° flanged elbow with complex internal flow path: Built using Revolved Boss/Base for both flanges, Lofted Boss/Base with two circular profiles and guide curves for the smooth R36 bend, Ø18 through bore, four Ø14 bolt holes on each flange (PCD 58 mm), R1 & R2 fillets and 5 mm wall thickness. Section A-A shows exact internal geometry.

BONUS

At the end. It would be ideal if you log in to the blog, comment and say what kind of drawings you want for practice.

As a reward for spending quality time reading this post, a reward follows. And that is the link to download all the drawings in this post in maximum resolution. Link to download the drawing.

You can find more drawings for practice on this post. Post.

On this channel you can find many free CAD modeling tutorials. Channel

SolidWorks vs FreeCAD 2025 – Who Actually Wins?

FreeCAD 2025–2026: The Only FREE CAD That Finally Destroyed the Subscription Trap

No more $5,000–$12,000 per year.
One open-source tool now does 90 % of what SolidWorks, Fusion 360, CATIA and Onshape do — for exactly zero dollars.

Let’s be brutally honest for a second.

Five years ago FreeCAD was “almost good”. Today, in late 2025 and going into 2026, FreeCAD is the real deal. The topological naming nightmare is dead. Assemblies finally work. The sheet-metal workbench is better than half of the paid tools. And thousands of real companies are quietly switching and saving six-figure sums every year.

How a 23-Year-Old Open-Source Project Beat Billion-Dollar Corporations

It all started in 2001 when one German developer (Jürgen Riegel) got his hands on the freshly open-sourced OpenCascade kernel. Together with Werner Mayer they began building something crazy — a completely free professional CAD system.

For almost two decades it was a passion project. Then version 1.0 dropped and everything changed overnight.

What You Can Actually Build With FreeCAD Right Now (2025–2026)

• Full parametric feature-based parts (better than Fusion 360 in many ways)
• Real multi-body assemblies with proper constraints
• Professional sheet-metal unfolding & flat patterns
• FEM structural, thermal and modal analysis (CalculiX)
• 3-, 4- and 5-axis CNC toolpaths ready for LinuxCNC and GRBL
• GD&T-compliant 2D drawings (TechDraw)
• Complete architectural BIM workflow
• Built-in spreadsheet for parametric madness
• Python macros — automate literally anything

 

This 40 kg hydraulic block was designed, simulated and machined using only FreeCAD — zero paid software.

Who’s Getting Rich Using FreeCAD in 2025?

Real companies. Real money saved.

• 7-person CNC shops in Serbia saving €50k+ per year
• Italian furniture makers who replaced SolidWorks completely
• German 3D-printing farms running 200 printers 24/7
• University labs doing cutting-edge research
• Startups that would be dead if they had to pay for CATIA

“We ditched SolidWorks in 2024. One year later we saved $68,000 and our engineers actually prefer FreeCAD now.”
— Alex, owner of a precision machining company, Slovenia

Why FreeCAD Is Better Than “Free” Trials and Cloud Traps

✔ Zero cost — forever
✔ No cloud, no spying, no forced updates
✔ Your files stay yours (no vendor lock-in)
✔ Runs on a $350 laptop
✔ Translated to Serbian, Croatian, Slovenian
✔ Community that actually answers in 5 minutes
✔ You can fix or add features yourself

 

Stop Paying for Pixels in 2026

DOWNLOAD FREECAD 2025/2026 RIGHT NOW (100 % FREE)

Best Places to Learn FreeCAD Fast (2025–2026)

• → MangoJelly – the absolute best tutorials
• → Joko Engineering – real-world projects
• → Official Forum – help in minutes

The first 15 hours will hurt.
The next 100 hours will make you unstoppable
and save you tens of thousands of dollars.

#FreeCAD #OpenSourceCAD #SolidWorksAlternative #CAD2026 #Engineering

AutoCAD Sheet Metal Tutorial 0144: Free Modeling Guide + DWG Download [Beginners]

AutoCAD Sheet Metal Tutorial 0144: Free Modeling Guide [Beginners]

Published: November 9, 2025 | Updated: | Original Upload: February 2, 2021

15,576+ views • 111 likes – Join thousands learning CAD with this proven tutorial!

Download the free DWG exercise files below the video to practice along!

This tutorial is perfect for:

• AutoCAD beginners diving into 3D sheet metal design
• Mechanical engineering students and hobbyists
• Professionals needing quick sheet metal workflows
• Anyone exploring free CAD modeling tools

What You'll Learn in This Tutorial

This free AutoCAD tutorial (0144) covers essential sheet metal modeling techniques. From basic sketching to advanced features, you'll create professional-grade designs ready for manufacturing:

1. Sheet Metal Workspace Setup – Switching to the right tools and units
2. Base Flange Sketching – Drawing the foundation profile
3. Bend Features – Adding angles, radii, and reliefs
4. Edge Flanges & Hems – Building edges and strengthening features
5. Jogs and Corners – Handling transitions and seams
6. Unfold & Flat Pattern – Generating manufacturing-ready drawings
7. Exporting DWG Files – Saving for fabrication or further edits

Ideal for AutoCAD 2021 or later – no prior sheet metal experience needed!

Download Exercise Files (FREE)

Click the button below to download the sample DWG files (base model + flat pattern) and follow the tutorial hands-on:

📥 DOWNLOAD DWG FILES (Google Drive)

🔒 No signup required • Direct download • Compatible with AutoCAD 2020+

Video Outline (Key Sections)

While timestamps aren't listed, here's a quick breakdown based on the tutorial flow:

• 0:00 - 1:00 Intro to Sheet Metal Tools
• 1:00 - 4:00 Creating the Base Sketch
• 4:00 - 8:00 Adding Bends and Flanges
• 8:00 - 12:00 Refining with Reliefs and Jogs
• 12:00 - End Unfolding, Rendering, and Tips

🚀 Level Up Your CAD Skills?

Subscribe to the Ivan Oblak YouTube Channel and hit the bell 🔔 for more free tutorials!

New content weekly – from AutoCAD to SolidWorks and beyond.

Next Steps for You

Build on this tutorial with these resources:

• SolidWorks Chair Modeling Tutorial
• FreeCAD Sheet Metal Tutorial (Open-Source Alternative)
• Playlist: AutoCAD Sheet Metal Series

Got Questions?

Comment below the video or on the blog – I reply within 24 hours! For collaborations or custom requests, email: ivan.oblak@gmail.com

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By Ivan Oblak - Extreme SolidWorks | Free CAD Tutorials | YouTube • Blog

Mastering FreeCAD: A Step-by-Step Guide to Modeling Scissors

Introduction

Are you eager to enhance your FreeCAD skills and tackle a fun, practical project? Look no further! In this comprehensive tutorial series, we guide you through the intricate process of modeling a pair of scissors in FreeCAD. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced user, these tutorials will help you master the art of 3D modeling. Let's dive in!

Part 1: Modeling the Metal Part

In the first video of our series, "FreeCAD - Tutorial - Scissors - Metal part - Modeling," we start with the fundamental component of our scissors - the metal part. This segment covers:

• Basic Sketching Techniques: Learn how to create accurate 2D sketches that serve as the foundation for your 3D model.
• Extrusion and Pad Tools: Discover how to transform your 2D sketches into 3D objects using the powerful extrusion and pad tools in FreeCAD.
• Precision Editing: Fine-tune your model with precision editing tools to ensure every detail is perfect.

Watch the Metal Part Tutorial on YouTube

Key Takeaways:

• Understanding the importance of a solid foundation in 3D modeling.
• Mastering the use of basic tools in FreeCAD.
• Developing the ability to create complex shapes from simple sketches.

Part 2: Crafting the Plastic Part

The second video, "FreeCAD - Tutorial - Scissors - Plastic part - Modeling," shifts focus to the plastic handles of the scissors. This part is essential for the ergonomics and usability of the scissors. Key points covered include:

• Advanced Sketching: Dive deeper into sketching techniques to create the ergonomic shape of the handles.
• Boolean Operations: Learn how to use Boolean operations to combine and subtract shapes, creating complex geometries.
• Material Assignment: Assign materials and textures to different parts of your model to give it a realistic appearance.

Watch the Plastic Part Tutorial on YouTube

Key Takeaways:

• Enhancing your sketching skills for more complex shapes.
• Utilizing Boolean operations for intricate designs.
• Understanding the importance of material properties in 3D modeling.

Part 3: Assembling the Scissors

In the final video, "FreeCAD - Tutorial - Scissors - Assembly - Modeling," we bring all the components together. This video covers:

• Assembly Workbench: Introduction to the Assembly Workbench in FreeCAD, where you'll learn to assemble the individual parts.
• Constraints and Joints: Learn how to apply constraints and joints to ensure that all parts fit together perfectly.
• Simulation and Testing: Simulate the movement of the scissors to test the functionality of your design.

Watch the Assembly Tutorial on YouTube

Key Takeaways:

• Gaining proficiency in the Assembly Workbench.
• Understanding the importance of constraints and joints in assemblies.
• Testing and validating the functionality of your model.

Conclusion

By following this comprehensive FreeCAD tutorial series, you'll gain the skills and confidence to tackle more complex projects. Each video builds upon the previous one, ensuring a smooth learning curve. Don't forget to subscribe to our YouTube channel for more tutorials and updates!

Call to Action:

• Subscribe to Our Channel: Stay updated with the latest tutorials and tips by subscribing to our YouTube channel.
• Join the Community: Share your progress and get feedback from other FreeCAD enthusiasts in our community forum.
• Showcase Your Work: Tag us on social media with your finished projects for a chance to be featured!

Happy Modeling!

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Author's Bio: Ivan Oblak is a passionate 3D modeling enthusiast and FreeCAD expert. With years of experience in the field, [Your Name] is dedicated to helping others unlock their creative potential through detailed tutorials and guides.

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Related Posts:

• Getting Started with FreeCAD: A Beginner's Guide
• Top 10 Tips for Efficient 3D Modeling

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By integrating these elements, this blog post is designed to attract and engage readers, driving traffic to your YouTube tutorials and fostering a community of FreeCAD enthusiasts.

FreeCAD Tutorial: Revolution and Groove - Unleash Your Design Potential

FreeCAD Tutorial: Revolution and Groove - Unleash Your Design Potential

Welcome back to our FreeCAD tutorial series! Today, we're diving into two powerful features that will take your 3D modeling skills to the next level: Revolution and Groove. These tools are essential for creating complex, symmetrical shapes and intricate details. Whether you're a seasoned designer or just starting out, this step-by-step guide will help you master these features and create impressive models in no time.

What is FreeCAD?

For those new to FreeCAD, it’s an open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler. It's ideal for creating real-life objects of any size and is highly versatile, making it a favorite among engineers, designers, and hobbyists.

Let's Get Started: Understanding Revolution and Groove

Revolution allows you to create a 3D object by revolving a 2D shape around an axis. Think of it as spinning a shape around a central point to form a solid object. This is perfect for creating cylindrical or symmetrical parts like wheels, vases, or gears.

Groove, on the other hand, is used to cut out a groove or recess around a cylindrical part. It's like creating a trench or channel on the surface of a rounded object, which is essential for designs that require detailed cuts and indentations.

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Revolution

1. Open FreeCAD and Create a New Document:

   • Start FreeCAD and create a new document. Go to File > New.

2. Switch to the Part Design Workbench:

   • Change the workbench to Part Design from the dropdown menu.

3. Create a Sketch:

   • Click on the Create Sketch button and select the plane where you want to draw (XY Plane is common).

4. Draw Your 2D Shape:

   • Use the sketch tools to draw the profile of your object. For example, draw half of a vase or a gear tooth profile.

5. Close the Sketch:

   • Once your shape is complete, click Close to exit the sketch.

6. Apply the Revolution Tool:

   • Select your sketch from the model tree, then click on the Revolve button.
   • Set the axis around which you want to revolve your shape (usually the vertical or horizontal axis).

7. Adjust Parameters:

   • You can adjust the angle of revolution (default is 360 degrees for a full revolution).

8. Final Touches:

   • Click OK to complete the revolution. You now have a 3D object created from your 2D sketch!

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Groove

1. Select the Revolved Object:

   • In the model tree, click on the object you created using the Revolution tool.

2. Create a New Sketch:

   • Click Create Sketch and select the plane where you want to draw the groove (often perpendicular to the revolved object’s surface).

3. Draw the Groove Profile:

   • Draw the profile of the groove you want to cut out. This could be a simple rectangle or a more complex shape.

4. Close the Sketch:

   • Once your groove profile is complete, click Close to exit the sketch.

5. Apply the Groove Tool:

   • Select your new sketch, then click on the Groove button.
   • Set the axis around which the groove will be cut (usually the axis of the revolved object).

6. Adjust Parameters:

   • You can set the angle of the groove cut (default is 360 degrees for a complete groove around the object).

7. Finalize Your Design:

   • Click OK to create the groove. You should now see a cut or trench around your object.

Tips for Success

• Precision is Key: Ensure your sketches are precise for best results.
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to experiment with different shapes and parameters.
• Save Often: Save your work frequently to avoid losing progress.

Watch the Tutorial Video

For a more detailed walkthrough, check out my tutorial video: FreeCAD - Tutorial - Revolution - Groove. In this video, I cover all the steps mentioned above and provide additional tips and tricks to help you get the most out of these features.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've now mastered the basics of the Revolution and Groove tools in FreeCAD. These features are incredibly powerful and can be used to create a wide range of complex designs. Keep practicing, and you'll soon be creating professional-quality 3D models with ease.

Stay tuned for more FreeCAD tutorials, and don't forget to share your creations with us. Happy designing!

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Feel free to make any adjustments or let me know if there's anything else you'd like to add!

FreeCad - Sheet metal - Tutorial - Modeling - Technical drawings

Introduction

FreeCad is an excellent CAD tool for working with thin sheet metal parts. It is excellent both for modeling parts and for developing the surface of those parts from thin sheets. In the following post, I will present excellent tutorials for those activities.

FreeCad - Sheet metal - Tutorial - Modeling

This video tutorial shows everything you need to model a sheet metal part.

Technical drawing

The first thing you need is a clearly defined technical drawing.

Technical drawing of thin sheet metal parts

Software - FreeCad

Second and most important, you need 3d CAD software. FreeCad is freeware. You can download the program at the following link.

Link for download FreeCad

Learning to work with the Freecad software package

You can find a lot of material on the Internet and YouTube to easily learn how to work with this program.

The procedure of following the tutorial and learning the operation of Freecad

1. Download the technical drawing from this post.
2. Study the drawing carefully
3. Start the Youtube link of this video tutorial
4. Watch the video as many times as you like until you understand everything.
5. Open the technical drawing and start FreeCad.
6. Follow the procedure shown in the video tutorial.

Video tutorial

FreeCad, a video tutorial for working with a thin sheet metal part.

Unleashing Creativity and Precision: A Comprehensive Guide to SolidWorks

Introduction:

In the dynamic realm of 3D modeling and design, SolidWorks stands as a stalwart, empowering engineers, designers, and innovators to bring their visions to life with precision and efficiency. This powerful computer-aided design (CAD) software has revolutionized the way we conceptualize and create products. In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the world of SolidWorks, exploring its features, benefits, and the myriad ways it fosters innovation.

Section 1: Understanding SolidWorks

SolidWorks is a parametric 3D CAD software developed by Dassault Systèmes. Its intuitive interface and robust tools make it a favorite among professionals across various industries. Let's explore some of its key features:

1. **Parametric Modeling:** SolidWorks employs a parametric approach, allowing users to create and modify designs by altering parameters. This feature facilitates easy experimentation and iteration during the design process.

2. **Assembly Modeling:** The software excels in creating intricate assemblies, enabling users to simulate the interaction between multiple components. This is invaluable for designing complex products and machinery.

3. **Sheet Metal Design:** SolidWorks provides specialized tools for sheet metal design, streamlining the process of creating components like enclosures and brackets. The software ensures accurate unfolding and precise manufacturing.

4. **Simulation and Analysis:** Engineers can perform virtual testing on their designs using SolidWorks Simulation. This feature aids in identifying potential issues and optimizing designs for performance and reliability.

Section 2: Advantages of SolidWorks

SolidWorks offers a plethora of advantages that contribute to its widespread adoption in the design and engineering community:

1. **User-Friendly Interface:** SolidWorks boasts an intuitive interface, making it accessible to both beginners and seasoned professionals. Its drag-and-drop functionality and contextual menus enhance usability.

2. **Extensive Library of Components:** The software includes an extensive library of standard components and fasteners, reducing design time and ensuring accuracy in assemblies.

3. **Collaboration and Integration:** SolidWorks facilitates collaboration among team members through features like cloud-based storage and integrated communication tools. This ensures seamless workflows and efficient project management.

4. **Parametric Intelligence:** The parametric nature of SolidWorks enables users to make changes at any stage of the design process without starting from scratch. This promotes flexibility and creativity.

Section 3: Industry Applications

SolidWorks finds applications across a multitude of industries, including:

1. **Automotive:** From concept design to manufacturing, SolidWorks aids in creating automotive components with precision and efficiency.

2. **Aerospace:** The software is instrumental in designing complex aerospace structures, ensuring compliance with stringent industry standards.

3. **Consumer Electronics:** SolidWorks facilitates the development of sleek and functional consumer electronics, from smartphones to smart home devices.

4. **Medical Devices:** In the medical field, SolidWorks helps in designing intricate and customized medical devices with a focus on precision and safety.

Conclusion:

SolidWorks stands as a cornerstone in the world of 3D modeling and design, offering a powerful suite of tools that cater to the diverse needs of professionals in various industries. Its user-friendly interface, robust features, and parametric intelligence make it an indispensable tool for those striving for innovation and excellence in their designs. Whether you're a seasoned engineer or a budding designer, SolidWorks is your gateway to unleashing creativity with unparalleled precision.

Enhancing Design Efficiency: Combining Excel Worksheets with SolidWorks

Introduction

In the world of engineering and product design, efficiency is paramount. Every little improvement in the design process can lead to significant time and cost savings. This blog post explores how you can leverage the power of Excel worksheets in conjunction with the SolidWorks program, a popular 3D CAD software, to streamline your design workflow. We'll provide practical examples and detailed elaboration of this integration to showcase its real-world applications.

## The Marriage of Excel and SolidWorks

Excel, a versatile spreadsheet tool, and SolidWorks, a robust 3D modeling software, might seem like an unlikely pair. However, when combined, they can offer a potent solution for design optimization and automation.

### Practical Examples

1. **Parametric Modeling**: Imagine you are designing a complex assembly with numerous components, and each component has multiple parameters like length, width, or weight. By linking an Excel worksheet to your SolidWorks model, you can update these parameters directly in Excel. This means that if a change is required, you don't have to individually modify each part within SolidWorks; the design updates automatically based on your Excel data.

2. **Bill of Materials (BOM) Management**: Managing a Bill of Materials is crucial in any engineering project. By integrating Excel with SolidWorks, you can create, update, and maintain BOMs more efficiently. Excel's powerful data management capabilities allow you to organize and customize your BOM, and any changes will be reflected in your SolidWorks model.

3. **Design Tables**: Design tables in SolidWorks are perfect for creating multiple configurations of a part or assembly. Excel can be used to manage these design tables, making it simple to create and modify various configurations. This is especially valuable for designs that have many variations or are highly customizable.

### Detailed Elaboration

Let's delve deeper into one of the practical examples mentioned above – Parametric Modeling.

**Parametric Modeling with Excel and SolidWorks**

1. **Linking Excel and SolidWorks**: Begin by creating an Excel worksheet with the relevant parameters for your design. You can define dimensions, tolerances, or any other variables needed. In SolidWorks, you can establish links to these cells by selecting the dimensions and linking them to specific Excel cells.

2. **Data-Driven Design**: Now, when you change a value in your Excel worksheet, it instantly reflects in your SolidWorks model. This feature is invaluable for design iterations, as it allows for quick and precise adjustments without the need to manually modify the design each time.

3. **Automated Calculations**: You can use Excel to perform calculations related to your design parameters. For instance, if you're designing a structural component and need to calculate stress based on changing loads, Excel can handle these calculations and update the SolidWorks model accordingly.

4. **Version Control**: Excel also enables you to maintain version control by keeping records of the design changes. This is vital for tracking design history and ensuring that you can always revert to a previous design if needed.

Conclusion

Integrating Excel worksheets with SolidWorks is a powerful method to enhance the efficiency of your design process. By automating repetitive tasks, such as parametric modeling and BOM management, you can save time and reduce the chances of errors. This synergy between two seemingly different software tools can result in a more streamlined and accurate design workflow, ultimately leading to better products and faster time-to-market.

In your engineering and design projects, consider harnessing the potential of Excel and SolidWorks to achieve a new level of productivity and precision. The marriage of these tools can transform the way you approach your design tasks, making your work not only more efficient but also more accurate and reliable.

How SolidWorks Can Revolutionize Engineering Work: The Ultimate Tool for Knowledge Accumulation, Load Calculation, and Cost Minimization

Introduction: SolidWorks - The Great Tool that Engineers Need for Everyday Work

SolidWorks, engineering software, CAD tool, design software, 3D modeling tool

The Power of SolidWorks in Knowledge Accumulation and Collaboration

knowledge accumulation in engineering, collaboration in SolidWorks, engineering design collaboration

• Collaborative Design: Utilizing features like real-time collaboration and version control to enhance teamwork and knowledge sharing.

• Design Documentation: Leveraging the capabilities of SolidWorks to create detailed documentation for future reference and knowledge preservation.

• Centralized Design Repository: Managing design files efficiently to ensure easy access to accumulated knowledge throughout the organization.

Loading Calculation and Voltage State Analysis Made Easy with SolidWorks

SolidWorks load calculation, voltage state analysis, stress analysis in SolidWorks

• Accurate Load Calculation: Using SolidWorks simulation tools to accurately calculate loads on different components or structures.

• Voltage State Analysis: Analyzing the voltage distribution within an electrical system using SolidWorks Electrical module.

• Error Identification: Detecting potential issues or weaknesses in designs by evaluating the stress levels on different parts.

Mimimizing Weight and Material Usage through Smart Design Practices in SolidWworks

Solidworks weight minimization, material optimization with SolidWorks, design optimization

• Topology Optimization: Utilizing SolidWorks simulation capabilities to optimize designs and minimize weight while maintaining structural integrity.

• Material Selection: Using SolidWorks' material libraries and analysis tools to identify the most suitable materials for specific applications.

• Design Optimization: Applying SolidWorks' parametric modeling features to fine-tune designs and reduce unnecessary material usage.

Minimizing Cost with SolidWorks: An Engineer's Path to Efficient Design Processes

Solidworks cost minimization, cost-effective design with SolidWorks, design for manufacturing

• CAD Integration: Seamlessly integrating SolidWorks designs with manufacturing processes to optimize production efficiency and reduce costs.

• Detailed Simulation: Leveraging SolidWorks simulation tools to identify potential issues early in the design process, avoiding costly modifications later on.

• Data-driven Decision Making: Utilizing data generated by SolidWorks simulations and analysis to make informed decisions that lead to cost savings in the long run.

Conclusion: Embrace the Power of Solidworks - Your Key to Revolutionary Engineering Work

Solidworks as an ideal tool for any engineer

The software tool that every engineer must have is Solidworks. 

SolidWorks is the ideal software tool for any engineer. Solidworks is a CAD/CAM/CAE package that offers tools and functions to design, manufacture, and analyze product models.

Solidworks is a great choice for engineers who want to work in the field of computer aided design (CAD) or computer aided manufacturing (CAM). The program combines all these aspects together into one package, giving users the ability to create accurate designs, manufacture parts and assemblies, and analyze performance.

The software's functionality makes it one of the most popular CAD/CAM/CAE packages available today. It is suitable for both small and large companies alike as it can be used by anyone regardless of experience level or budget.

SolidWorks also has an excellent job sharing feature that allows users to share their files with other people who are using the same software on their computers so that they can collaborate on projects together without having to use email or other methods of communication.

Solidworks also offers all sorts of consultants who can help you with problems that may arise during your design process such as using different materials or dimensions for your parts, which will save you time and money on each project

Sheet metal drawings 1 - 14

 

Explanation

In your daily work, you come into contact with sheet metal parts. In order to make such parts, you need to have a developed surface and shape of those parts. Whether you are going to work in Solidworks or Freecad (programs that have tools for that) or some other specialized software, you must reach the level for quality work in 3d modeling. In this post, I provide you with 14 examples of metal parts for embroidery. There are easy parts and also medium complex ones. If you can't model the part, leave a comment with a contact email. Clarify what the problem is in the comment.

Autocad Sheet metal

Sheet metal and Autocad. Sheet metal can be done very well and easily in Autocad.

Everyone who deals with mechanical engineering knows that it is very important to solve the development of sheet metal parts in an easy and accurate way. Autocad, a well-known system for CAD and 3D modeling, can perform this task.

Youtube free video tutorials

In the continuation of this post, you can watch 4 video tutorials that show tutorials for working with Autocad Sheet metal.