[ATM] Free 3D Design Software: Sketchup

[Jason Hissong <jhissong@gmail.com>]

Hi guys,

If any of you have been looking for a good 3D Design program, Sketchup 
has a new free version (thanks to Google buying them). The free version 
simply does not allow you to export high resolution models for other CAD 
programs and does not allow for high resolution printing. But everything 
else is the same!

I have been playing with it and it is a great way to design out scope 
ideas (and other things). Once you understand the interface, it becomes 
very easy to design things. I am now using it to help me design my 
kitchen cabinets.

http://www.sketchup.com/

After about an hour, I came up with this (modeled after my ball scope I 
built):

http://www.undermidnight.com/images/atm/ballscope.jpg

I will still go to my trusty TurboCAD when I want to do precise stuff, 
however, Sketchup will be the tool I go to first. 

Also, since Sketchup is free, someone on CloudyNights suggested the 
creation of an online repository of sorts of 3d Sketchup ATM parts.  
This way, as an ATM community, we can share the ideas.  I can set up a 
webpage at my site, www.undermidnight.com, to house this.  Let me know 
if you would like something posted.  My ball scope model (when done) 
will be posted there so that others who may want to build a ball scope 
can do so.

Clear Skies (unless there is a mirror to grind),
Jason Hissong

-- 

"A long journey starts with the first step and an understanding spouse."
http://www.undermidnight.com - astronomy and astrophotography
http://www.n8xe.com - ham radio
http://www.jasonhissong.com - electronic music composition

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