Autodesk Tinkercad vs. CATIA

I have found that Autodesk Tinkercad is best for creating simple 3D models for printing. I use it to add text or modifications to 3D models of artifacts for my museum, including labels and support structures for artifacts to stand on. I also use it to create promotional materials, like 3D models of artifacts with our logo on them, which we can print and pass out at events. I would not use Autodesk Tinkercad for more complex 3D modeling or editing 3D models. It's really designed for basic creation and modification, and in those areas it is extremely useful!

Incentivized

When it comes to modelling a product using multiple parts, CATIA becomes tedious. One need someone to sit with and learn with the experience from a frequent user. If switching from any other software to CATIA, it can be intimidating as learning curve is lengthy. For example, when working with complex shape in a knuckle joint, more steps are needed in part modelling. This cause part modelling lengthier and consume time more time, in comparison to SOLIDWORKS. However, CATIA is tremendously helpful in generating really complex features. Surface modelling is way easier when one know how to use it. It becomes really handy to make changes to the design later as well. The design history tree is also very well organized, which save time in later modifications

• Tinkercad is a great baseline CAD program. This program is easy to implement and train people in.
• After on a short period of time my students are able to create complex forms using Tinkercads pre-generated shapes and holes.
• The Tinkercad provided projects aid in pushing the learning experience even further and reinforce the ideas that I train on and help my students explore the program before designing their own complex sculptural forms.

Incentivized

• Surface modeling module is extremely developed and successful.
• 2D drafting module is doing the job effectively (AutoCAD is no more required).

Incentivized

• The tutorials could be more easily readable and easier for younger students
• Sometimes confusing how to use the mouse tools vs on an iPad
• Less professional, not often used in career fields

Incentivized

• The software is pretty heavy, even with computers designed for heavy-duty loads, resulting in long wait times to load files and make changes, reducing productivity.

Incentivized

We got frequent updates on CATIA. There are lots of update notes. Also, there are lots of lots of videos online to solve the issues that you can stumble upon. It also has a built-in help manual, which helps occasionally. I have gotten my education through a physical class on CATIA, so there are opportunities like that as well.

Incentivized

Tinkercad is free and easy to use. It's a great place for people to start learning about 3D Design before they invest time and money in professional-level tools.

Incentivized

You can create solid or 3D figures more easily and efficiently using Catia than in other programs or in specific AutoCAD. You can also create different pieces to later assemble them and thus create figures even more complex or in greater detail. In the same way, you can make 2D drawings without much complication.

Incentivized

• I should definitely say that Tinkercad has no negative impact on my business.
• It shortened my 3d design process for my many simple projects.
• Tinkercad is a free tool, no investment needed.
• I suggest it to my customers who don't know 3d design, but desperately needs a 3d file for their projects.

• If designing large assemblies or very complex ones, especially in the aerospace industry, CATIA is the way to go.
• The graphics are really good, and the software offers many possibilities to view a design: 2D, 3D, bird's eye view...
• Controls pan zoom rotate are easy.

Incentivized