Reliable low-cost alternative for modeling and rendering 3D objects in engineering graphics education

Abstract

In Engineering Schools is a growing concern to offer its students the latest in 3D CAD modeling software that respond to advanced design needs. The latest software is increasingly comprehensive and complex. However, the time available for teaching such software is scarce and rarelyget to know more than 20% of the potential of the software for a particulararea. However, other 3D CAD solutions are on the market, low cost, very friendly, easy to learn interface, with much potential and you will get to have all the features of more advanced software, can fully meet the teaching requirements this area. Since the introduction of the EHEA (European Higher Education Area), the target level of teaching an engineering school in the field of 3D CAD modeling, should be to develop in students in the time available, the maximum capacities and skills three-dimensional geometric design. And this, when well planned, can be achieved with the proper use of low cost software. The authors have analyzed the potential of various freeware or shareware software, well suited to the typical subjects of Engineering Design, in the areas of CAD-3D design and rendering.