Software
In the process of prototyping and manufacturing, various types of software are required at all stages. Solid modeling via CAD, analysis, and 3D printing and scanning, are essential components in prototyping, and Northwestern has various software resources available for student, staff, and faculty use.
Software downloads are available via two main routes: free to use, and department purchased. Free to use software is available to the everyone, regardless of Northwestern affiliation, and is typically geared towards entry-level users. Some departments at Northwestern, such as Mechanical Engineering and the Segal Design Institute, purchase advanced software packages for student use, some of which are available for download.
Solidworks
Professional CAD, CAE software. Utilized in various Northwestern courses.
Availability:
- 3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping Lab
- Engineering First Computer Lab
- Research Shop
- Mechanical Engineering Computer Lab
- Mechatronics Lab
- Segal Prototyping & Fabrication Lab
Download: Available through FTP server via the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Segal Design Institute. Contact your course instructor for installation instructions.
NX
Professional CAD, CAM, CAE software. Utilized in various Northwestern courses.
Availability:
- 3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping Lab
- Engineering First Computer Lab
- Research Shop
- Mechanical Engineering Computer Lab
- Mechatronics Lab
- Segal Prototyping & Fabrication Lab
Download: Available through FTP server via the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Segal Design Institute. Contact your course instructor for installation instructions.
Autodesk Fusion 360
Professional CAD software.
Availability:
- Engineering First Computer Lab
- Segal Prototyping & Fabrication Lab
Download: Available online free, for students.
Autodesk 123D Design
Free CAD software that's well suited for 3D printing.
Availability:
Download: Available online for free.
Blender
Free CAD software. Well suited for freeform modeling.
Download: Available online free.
3D Systems Geomagic
Professional laser scanner & surface rendering software.
Availability:
- 3D Printing & Rapid Prototyping Lab
- Mechanical Engineering Computer Lab
Download: Available through FTP server via the Department of Mechanical Engineering and the Segal Design Institute. Contact your course instructor for installation instructions.
Simplify 3D
Advanced 3D printing software.
Availability:
Download: Not available for download through Northwestern. It is available for use in the Mechatronics Lab.
Cura
Free 3D Printing software.
Download: Available online free.
Preform
Free 3D Printing software for Formlabs printers.
Availability:
Download: Available online free.
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