In the next article we are going to take a look at SolveSpace. It's about a free open source 2D and 3D CAD program. Is a modeler parametric constraint-based with simple mechanical simulation capabilities. From version 2.1 onwards, this program can be run on Windows, Gnu / Linux, and macOS.
Solvespace is a lightweight program. It loads fast and works well. This program is developed by Jonathan Westhues and a community of volunteers. The Solvespace user interface is static, whether we are working on a 2D sketch, extrusion, or assembly. The GUI and keyboard shortcuts do not change as long as we use the program. This means, for example, that constraints can be applied in the same way in 2D and 3D, making it easier to work with Solvespace.
Solvespace allows the model to be dynamically manipulated as long as it is not fully constrained, both in 2D and 3D. This can be very useful when studying a model or looking for its best form.
General characteristics of SolveSpace
SolveSpace is a open source parametric 2D / 3d CAD program, what includes:
- Ability to 3D part modeling. We can draw with extrusions or Boolean operations.
- We can design parts for 3D printing. Exports the STL or other triangle mesh that is expected in most 3D printers.
- El 2D part modeling is also available. We can draw the part as a single section and export it as DXF, PDF or SVG.
- Preparation of CAM data. We will be able to export 2D vector art for a waterjet machine, laser cutter or generate STEP or STL, to import into third-party CAM software.
- Mechanism design. We can use the constraint solver to simulate spatial links, with pin, ball or slip joints.
- Flat and solid geometry. Hand solved trigonometry and spreadsheets can be replaced with a live dimensioned drawing.
The latest version available is SolveSpace 3.0, which was released some time ago. Can be see all the features of this programa in his web page.
SolveSpace installation on Ubuntu
Through PPA
Because it is available through PPA, we will be able to install SolveSpace on Ubuntu 18.10 Cosmic Cuttlefish, Ubuntu 18.04 Bionic Beaver, Linux Mint 19.x, Linux Mint 18.x, Elementary OS 0.5 Juno and other Ubuntu-derived systems in a simple way. You just have to open a terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) and in it type the following steps.
To start we must add the PPA to our system:
sudo add-apt-repository ppa:alex-p/solvespace
Now if I don't know automatically updates the local repository index, we will do it from the same terminal by typing:
sudo apt-get update
After finishing the update, all that remains is install solvespace package:
sudo apt-get install solvespace
By snap
We will be able use the corresponding instructions for the installation of the snap package. These instructions can be read on the Snapcraft.
We can also get the snap package of this program from the Ubuntu software option. In it we will only have to look for the name of the program and install it.
Whichever option you choose, after installation you can now search for the launcher on your computer to start the program and start working.
uninstall
If you have chosen to install via PPA, to remove added repository and solvespace program, in a terminal (Ctrl + Alt + T) you just have to write:
sudo add-apt-repository -r ppa:alex-p/solvespace sudo apt-get remove solvespace
If you used either of the other two installation options mentioned in the previous lines, you will be able to uninstall the program from the Ubuntu software option.
In case you need an idea to start working with this program, you can follow the Tutorials on different aspects.
Solvespace is another of the existing open source 3D CAD programs, such as openSCAD y FreeCAD. This it is not a replacement for FreeCAD because it lacks many of the features that come with FreeCAD. However, if you want to try a really free 2D / 3D CAD program, but the FreeCAD learning curve is too long for you, giving Solvespace a try may be a good option.