Started playing (again) with an old CAD software favorite. It’s named Rhinoceros produced by Robert McNeil & Associates. I own the full commercial Version 8 SR35.
I first used Rhino decades ago when my main interest was making things in my metal working machine shop. I was transitioning into Computer Aided Machining (CAM) and needed accurate Computer Aided Drafting (CAD) to create the instructional g-code needed to program the automated machine tools.
Rhinoceros has a nice add-on CAM program called Rhino-CAM (how clever) that made producing the needed g-code for my machine tools fairly straight forward.
For my 3D printing designs, I can just export files from Rhino to my 3D printer slicer software, and print plastic Junque. The 3D slicer produces a special type (flavor) of g-code.
I have several other options with other brand-named CAD software I choose to use, that work very well for the task. I have just decided to re-visit Rhino after a long hiatus.
Rhinoceros is a very high detail commercial CAD software. Trial versions are available. I have a fully licensed commercial Here is a link to the website. (LINK)
Rhino-8 can be vary complex or exceedingly simple, depending on the users skill or design needs. For me it requires some effort to remember all the process steps that were at one time, very familiar. It has all the features of all high quality CAD and a whole lot of additional presentation enhancements.
I am not going into details here. Visit the website (link above) for info straight from the horse’s, er… Rhino’s mouth.
My intention in this post is to admit I have been a long time Rhino enthusiast, but admitting I have “been away” for some time visiting other CAD… That’s not a bad thing. One tool makes Jack a dull boy…
The creative process is what always interests me. The finished product is simply the reward from executing the design. My enjoyment begins with the design process, and ends when holding the finished item. The “reward” is nice, but all I really want is to start the next new design.
So changing CAD tools is part of my process of making product design interesting. I don’t have all my tools in one basket.
There is one “rule” I always keep in mind. The rule says, “ I can’t be a MASTER of every design system in existence.” “But I can become skilled with a chosen few.” “Choose wisely, grasshopper!” (Line from a Kung-Fu TV series)
By the way… There is an add-in tool for Rhino, called “Grasshopper”. A visual programming environment. Jest say’n…
Bottom line is that Rhinocerous is a “player” in my bag of tricks. It is a fully owned, lifetime licensed and extremely well supported CAD package. Professional grade.
There is a learning curve because of it’s broad abilities. The product is well documented and supported. It also boasts a broad spectrum of well made add-in features such as the Rhino-Cad I mentioned and a very good jewelry design system.
Not selling. Just a solid “thumbs up” recommendation. Well worth a look.
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