I am currently using a couple of different programs to create patterns for a Torchmate system that I’ve been working with. I’m interested in seeing what other people are doing with the Open Source software.
What do you use? I currently use LibreCAD to draw 2D, SketchUP for 3D and HeeksCAD for tool paths. I am currently working on a plugin for LibreCAD to generate tool paths and FreeCAD is starting to look very promising for 3D modelling and soon cam work with toolpath generation.
As we only have access to a 2D system (sheet metal cutting with plasma torch), we start with CorelDraw and export as DXF to Torchmate-CAD. I just found Inkscape which would be an Open Source replacement to CorelDraw. We have to get it into Torchmate-CAD in order to create cut paths. I doubt that my school will be able to get into 3D for a while but when we do, I hope this group will help me provide useful information. I’ll check out the software you mentioned and start making a list. Thank you so much.