7. Conclusion and Outlook
In this contribution, the specifications of CAD systems have
been explained with particular consideration to the
requirements of unexperienced users in the area of 3D printing.
These requirements are, above all, favorable or even free access
to a CAD system, high user-friendliness and a comprehensive
range of functions. In addition, a market analysis of different
freeware and open source CAD software was conducted as
these enable free or inexpensive access. Five CAD software
packages were analyzed here in detail and compared. Clear
differences could be elaborated with respect to the userfriendliness
and the scope of functions.
Onshape, the best evaluated CAD software was
subsequently further studied in detail. In this, it was
demonstrated that the complete process chain in CAD-based
product development from the 3D modelling of single
components to the assembly could be carried out. Also the
successful data-transfer from the CAD-System to a 3D-Printer
using an interface is proven.
The future development of freeware and open-source CAD
systems will be accompanied within further studies. The type
of new functions which will additionally be provided should be
particularly studied here. For instance, the opportunities for the
collaborative design using f