I did quick search, but first pass didn’t look promising, so I thought I’d ask.
Is there any popular (affordable) architectural/home design software that can export files that can be easily translated to GF files for cutting/engraving? End goal would be to design in the software and then use the GF to create a physical model. I know this can certainly be done in sketch-up or autocad, but I’m thinking of one of the packages that folks use to design their homes and have all sorts of architectural library options.
Interesting software. I had not heard of it before, but it seems that it would be very useful in designing laser patterns for many items and concepts.
I think however, that I’m looking for software that is specifically designed for architectural design. This type of software has built-in functions for doors, windows, etc. I’m imagining and looking for software that I can use to design a building in 3d, and then have the various elements (such as walls, roofs) exportable to use in a laser. Then, put them back together in an architectural model. There might not be such an animal, or it may be too expensive for my use. Just hoping.
I’ve sent my d-i-l the question. She is a commercial architect (& we were in fact talking about laser cutter models over Christmas). I’ll let you know what she comes back with.
This won’t be much use because I have no recollection of what it was called, but back in the mid-90’s I had a software package that allowed you to create a 3D home design then print all the necessary templates to replicate it using wood or, what I used, foamboard and other craft materials.
We planned to build a house and I did all the design, built a model, took it and the exported plans to architects, etc. - all very professional looking.
I have to believe stuff like that is still out there. I probably picked it up at CompUSA or an office supply store. This was before Amazon and such. Probably something like “home designer 3D” or something!
I used a package called Chief Architect’s Home Designer Architectural to do the same for our new house. But the model is virtual, including the ability to create virtual walkthroughs. I can export an STL so I can 3D print it (as well as DXF, DAE, etc formats as well) but I don’t think I can get flat cut files from it.
My d-i-l is in CA so I haven’t heard back with the answers to my queries but I expect she knows of something since it’s what she does for a living.
Pretty sure what I had exported in PDF for printing the templates, but I’m sure other formats as well. It’s been almost 30 years. I cut the foamboard and craft foam by hand.
It had the “walkthru” stuff as well, my ex and I sat there “roaming” our proposed home and I’d make adjustments. Would have been a wonderful place, but circumstances.
Was it from Punch Software? I did have their program and I now remember it had a printout process. It was finicky as hell, but I’ll look to see if they are still in business.
I have no clue. Like I said, almost 30 years ago.
It wasn’t “finicky” though. Very slick and easy to use.
Yes, the time passes.
I did a quick look and it was Punch. They have a feature called “Realmodel” that prints out the house in 1/8 scale (I think). I guess I may try to dig out my copy and see if there is an upgrade (ha!) or just give in and buy a new version.
According to my d-i-l, Revit, Sketchup and Autocad are typically used. They all have defined architectural components.
Revit calls them family/families & has a standard library included with additional families available for download. Sketchup warehouse has free models as well as additional paid models. Autocad calls them blocks and there are a huge number of libraries available. Standard components like faucets, lighting and furniture often have models/families/libraries created by the manufacturers and available for as downloads or resources.
Have you used this yet? Do you have and invitation code?
I’ve used an old version of Home Designer Suite to generate 2D plans.
I signed up but never received an invitation code.
I guess my explanation of why I wanted to try it out didn´t cut it.
I haven’t gotten any response either.
Ha! Found a backup on a NAS device, it was called “Home Design 3D” - but it wasn’t the same as the current app you can download by that name - although technology has probably advanced in almost 30 years.
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