CAD/CAM (Computer Assisted Design / Computer Assisted Manufacturing) systems allow us to create precision parts, minimizing design time and maximizing the quality of the final product. We preferably use open source software and hardware tools, some of the software we use most frequently are:
FreeCAD is a general-purpose, parametric computer-aided design (CAD) software that enables building information modeling (BIM) and finite element method (FEM) simulation.
It is intended for mechanical engineering product design and for architecture and electrical engineering applications.
OpenSCAD is a purely script-based CAD that uses its own description language. OpenSCAD specifies primitive geometries (spheres, cubes, cylinders, etc.) and defines how they are modified and combined (e.g. through intersection, difference, union) to generate a 3D model, this method is known as constructive solid geometry (CSG).
Cura is an open source CAM software for 3D printers also known as slicer. It allows integration with third-party CAD applications and CNC controllers. Currently Cura is used by over one million users worldwide and handles 1.4 million print jobs per week.
CHITUBOX is comercial SLA/DLP/LCD 3D Slicer. A slicer facilitates the conversion of a 3D object model to specific instructions for the 3D printer. The slicer converts a model in STL (stereolithography) format into printer commands in G-code format.
OctoPrint is an open source 3D printer controller application which provides a web interface for the connected printers. It displays printers' status and key parameters and allows user to schedule prints and remotely control the printer.
A web-based interface for CNC milling controller running Grbl, Smoothieware, or TinyG. It runs on an Raspberry Pi or a laptop computer that with Node.js installed.