Autodesk 123D

123D
Developer(s) Autodesk
Initial release February 2009 (2009-February)
Stable release
2.2 / September 21, 2016 (2016-09-21)[1]
Operating system Windows 7
OS X 10.7 or later
iOS
Available in English
Type 3D computer graphics software
License Freemium
Website www.123dapp.com
Cardboard assembly of a Trifoil 3D model planned in 123D Make

Autodesk 123D was a suite of hobbyist CAD and 3D modelling tools created by Autodesk. It is similar in scope to Trimble SketchUp and is based on Autodesk Inventor.[2] As well as the more basic drawing and modelling capabilities it also has assembly and constraint support and STL export. Available for the software is also a library of ready-made blocks and objects.[3]

Autodesk is also working in collaboration with three companies (Ponoko, Techshop and 3D Systems)[4] to enable users of 123D to create physical objects from their designs using 3D printing technology. [5][6]

All 123D apps were discontinued[7] by Autodesk beginning November 2016 and completing March 2017.[8] The tools in the 123D group were replaced by Tinkercad, Fusion 360, and ReMake. Only Autodesk 123D Circuits survived.

Additional applications

The 123D suite consists of the programs:

  • Catch: Creates 3D models from series of photographs taken at various angles using photogrammetry
  • Sculpt+: Allows manipulation of virtual clay into a model
  • Make: Allows creation of low-tech LOM-style solid models
  • Design: Simplified program to create 3D models
  • Creature: Allows creation of creatures in 3D on iPad
  • Circuits: Virtual breadboarding and circuit design application[9]
  • Tinkercad: 3D printing app
  • MeshMixer: A tool for working with mesh models

Autodesk Catch

Catch uses photogrammetry technology to create a 3D model out of multiple pictures taken by the user. It does this by stitching together the images with common visual structures automatically, then asking the user to help connect points that could not be determined through software. Catch can be used to create 3D models of people, places, and things. With the creation of an Autodesk account, users can also export their newly created models to further manipulate in popular 3D modeling software.

The program is available for Windows, an app exists in the play store for Android, app store for iOS, and Windows Phone store.

Use

To create a 3D model in Catch the user should find a subject that can be easily photographed from many angles in good light. If the user is trying to create a 3D model of something with complex features they can take close up pictures on those areas to give better definition to the resulting model. Autodesk recommends taking between 30 and 40 pictures to create a well rounded model but when photographing larger subjects the user can take up to 70 pictures to give greater detail to the model. Once all of the images are saved they are uploaded to autodesk servers so they can be stitched together and a 3D model can be made. This process can take several minutes. Finally after they model is created it is downloaded to the user's device for viewing and editing. The 3D models created by Catch can be used in a number of ways such as 3D printing.

Sharing

Catch offers users the ability to view, comment on, rate, and download other users models. Likewise any user of the app has the option to share their creations with the autodesk community via Autodesk's built-in sharing functionality.

Known issues

Autodesk's Catch software is free and allows users to create 3D models with ease with only the use of a camera or smartphone. This convenience comes at cost however and means a lack of functionality pertaining to detail and reliability. Since Catch processes the user’s images on an Autodesk server instead of locally on the user's computer an internet connection is required to use any of the functionality it offers. Autodesk servers may be unresponsive at times, making it impossible for users to access their creations or work on new models. Just the data reaching the server does not ensure a good model.

When creating a model, the Catch software can have trouble stitching together images that feature reflective or transparent surfaces, even with the user's assistance. Catch can also fail to properly create a model if the subject moves or changes during photoshoot. Models featuring small parts or hair and fur can also cause problems for the Catch software because the mesh created does not allow for such level of detail.

See also

References

  1. ↑ "Autodesk 123D Design". Autodesk 123D Design. Autodesk, Inc. Retrieved March 27, 2017.
  2. ↑ Autodesk 123D solid modeling software hits beta, hobbyists cheer $0.00 pricetag Engadget
  3. ↑ Autodesk 123D Beta Available to Public
  4. ↑ Autodesk 123D: Manufacturing Gets Personal
  5. ↑ Manufacturing Gets Personal: Autodesk 123D Now Available for Free Download
  6. ↑ Democratizing Design: Autodesk’s CEO Carl Bass Announces 123D
  7. ↑ Official announcement.
  8. ↑ "What is happening to the 123D Family of Apps?". Tinkercad. Retrieved April 4, 2017.
  9. ↑ 123D circuits announcement.


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