Which program should I use?

[Anonymous]

Hello,

I am a student, and I want to model structures that look like stingray spines for a research project I am doing. The plan is to 3D print the models and see how they puncture ballistics gel.

I’m brand new to 3D modeling software. For the past couple of weeks I’ve been learning the ropes of 3Ds Max and using it create my spines, because 3ds Max was the only software available to me at the time. The results aren’t bad, but they have problems with creasing and measurement precision, which will cause issues when I print the spines out and run tests on them.

Also, as I’ve read more about Autodesk’s products, I’m starting to worry that I’ve been using the wrong software from the start. 3ds Max is mainly used in entertainment, while I’m just trying to build a simple, mostly geometric model with dimensions and measurements that I can precisely control. Can I achieve this with 3ds Max, or is there an easier/better way with another program? (It’s not the greatest feeling knowing that I’ll have to learn a whole new software, but I’d rather perform this switch now and produce better results later because of it.) I’d prefer Mac-compatible programs (as I have access to a Mac all the time), but I can work on PC too. I've attached pictures below that might help explain what my goals are.

Thanks in advance!

[oswaldodcb · Accepted solution]

Hello @Anonymous

There is a program that Autodesk is pushing called Fusion360, where you can generate 3D in a simple way with the use of many intuitive tools,

You attach attachment link and also so you can see all the benefits, and so you can apply it to your design,

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=W1koVrRQrMI

https://www.autodesk.com/products/fusion-360/students-teachers-educators

I hope it will be useful

Regards,

[Anonymous]

Hi @oswaldodcb,

Thank you for your advice!  I tried both Inventor and Fusion 360 as they seemed similar.  Ultimately I chose Fusion 360 because, like Inventor, it has Sketch mode and many of the same dimension control options, but unlike Inventor, I personally found it faster to create the organic curves I wanted in Fusion 360.

[oswaldodcb]

I'm glad you found the right program for you, it was nice to be able to help you,

Fusion360 is awesome!

I wish you success in your projects!