SolidWorks and Inkscape (27.2.12)

Today in class Oscar introduced us to two design programs: SolidWorks and Inkscape.  SolidWorks is a popular tool to design in 3D.  We started by following one of SolidWorks' tutorials, but because of technical difficulties surrounding operating in Windows on a Mac, it took around 35 minutes before SolidWorks ran properly and didn't crash. The program itself is intricate, but allows the user to design some amazing projects.  Here are a few examples from SolidWorks:

 

https://plus.google.com/100923600711217681276/posts/N4qQKD7EegE

 

pcwin.com

 

solidsmack.com

After working for a little while, Oscar introduced us to Inkscape, a program great for both 2D and 3D designs.

 

http://www.tigert.com/2005/10/27/free-software-for-designers/

 http://www.cartographersguild.com/showthread.php?1392-Isometric-map-elements-for-Inkscape-(SVG)

Our challenge was to design a carabiner that would be made using the Laser Cutter.  We decided to work in Inkscape, since it's interface is great for designing in 2D.  More on my design will come in the next post!