This workshop provides a foundation in the basics of 3D CAD that will get you started on your way to designing your own digital solid models of mechanical parts. Starting with simple 2D sketches, you will add geometric and dimensional constraints, then extend the design to three dimensions using extrusion and rotation operations.

Students will be introduced to these concepts using OnShape, a web-based solid modeling software platform that is feature-rich and well-suited for collaborative projects, while also free to use for maker/hobbyist projects. We recommend that students:

1. Bring your laptop PC to class if you have one (Windows, MacOS. Linux all work well. If you have a Chromebook, please contact the instructor, brad@lowellmakes.com). Laptops will be made available for class use if you don't have one.
2. Pre-register for a free OnShape account at https://www.onshape.com/products/free
3. For students bringing their own laptops we also recommended installing Inkscape (https://inkscape.org/) , a free vector graphics program that will be used for customizing the CAD models.

Follow-up workshops will build on this one, incorporating advanced techniques as well as design considerations for manufacturing via 3D printing, CNC machining, or other CAM processes.