CAD/CAM Buddies

[komatias]

Well a bunch of us here use CAD and Cam a lot professionally and as a hobby. What may be lacking are the funds to actually investing in high end programs. Considering that Creo, Solidworks etc will set you back a few grand and Mastercam many grand, many choose to use fusion360 which is "OK" for basic stuff and 3D modeling but not great for draughting.

Did you have any specific questions on CAD/ CAM?

[magicniner]

I use CAD/CAM but as a means to an end an construct only what's required to generate the tool paths to make parts.
I kinda like the big complex rendered 3D models but it's the actual making of things which interests me,

- Nick

[Leadhead]

Gentlemen my object was to see if there was anyone in my vicinity. I am a retired Solidworks designer of many years, and have run CNC toolrooms. Not seeking assistance but would like to meet fellow homers for exchange of ideas and inspiration.
Are you guys local?

[magicniner]

Central South, that varies just as does North, depending on where you're standing, for me "Southern" starts somewhere around Leicester ;-)

[Leadhead]

South Hants. North of Portsmouth.

[magicniner]

I hadn't heard of "Mens Sheds", from the look of the general facilities you may find more kindred souls at a "Makerspace" if there's one local to you,
Regards,
Nick

[Neale]

I'm a member of the local model engineering society (South Devon) and amongst 40-50 members, I seem to be the only one with a CNC interest. I know of one other member who is trying to get to grips with 3D CAD, but this seems very much a minority interest in the hobby/home machining community. I suspect that Fusion360 and OnShape, free for home users, might well change this over the next year or two although in my experience many model engineering types are not that quick to pick up new technology. Don't know about woodworkers - not an area that I'm part of. So, the chances of stumbling over someone who shares what seems to be very minority interests are pretty low! That's why, I suspect, this forum is a great chance to exchange ideas with others who actually understand what we're talking about.