Generation of STL files?

Hi Andy,

most reprappers use openscad which works well on Windows/Linux/Mac OSX. it allows you to view/modify STL files.

also it is free.. i have used it myself to view/modify some STL files..

Here is a wiki link for the same

http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/OpenSCAD_User_Manual

Cheers

Sid

Sid, thanks for the suggestion.

It's an interesting approach to CAD, I'm reminded of the scripting in Autocad. I'm in mixed minds about this one, it make a lot of sense but I've concerns over the learning curve.

Cheers,

Andy

Hi Andy,

Openscad looks little daunting at first, but when play around with different examples provided. it adds up..

what seemed like difficult few days before, seems now easy...the learning curve is not steep...

Cheers

Sid

I agree that Openscad is a good tool.  Autodesk 123d is a good tool but is a little flakey.  123D is getting better.  I remember when it was still in alpha and i was part of the testing group i would say it has come along ways. I've also used Autocad but a little pricey if your looking to just get a model for a 3d printer.  I've also used Autodesk Revit and added and Stl exporter.  I liked Revit for 3d modeling but again that is a little pricey to use.  I would keep Autodesk products in mind as they are teaming up with makerbot to make their software more capable with 3d printers.

Nate

I was just informed by the good people at Autodesk that they are aquiring TinkerCad and should close within the next 30 days.  I would also check this out as a possible software.  Here is what they have to say.

"We are excited to have reached an agreement with Autodesk that will provide a solid home and bright future for Tinkercad," said Kai Backman, founder of Tinkercad. "We found in Autodesk a shared vision for empowering students, makers and designers with accessible and easy to use software, and with their global reach and expertise in democratizing design, we're confident in their ability to introduce Tinkercad to new audiences around the world."

Autodesk intends for the Tinkercad service to remain available as part of its consumer portfolio. The company also intends to incorporate elements of the Tinkercad technology and user experience into the Autodesk 123D family of products as part of its ongoing effort to make 3D design easier and more accessible to everyone. The transaction is expected to close within the next 30 days.

"Tinkercad is a natural extension of the Autodesk 123D family as well as our other apps and services for consumers, as it is already used alongside Autodesk products," said Samir Hanna, Autodesk vice president, consumer products. "We look forward to welcoming the Tinkercad community to Autodesk and to continuing their mission of accessible 3D design for all."

Nate