TouchCAD X 3.5.1 review

TouchCAD is a combined 3D modeling and unfolding program focusing on the ability to generate complex 3D shapes and converting them into physically buildable models.

License: Demo OS: Mac OS X File size: 42167K Developer: Lundstrom Design Buy Now Price: $795.00 Updated: 26 Nov 2006

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TouchCAD is a combined 3D modeling and unfolding program focusing on the ability to generate complex 3D shapes and converting them into physically buildable models.

It can be used for a wide range of tasks such as marine/yacht design, production of soft material based objects such as tents, blimps, inflatable objects, reversed engineering where copies of existing objects are being recreated, sheet metal objects, industrial and architectural design, sculptures, etc.

Here are some key features of "TouchCAD":
Improved DXF import/export.
Improved VectorWorks export with support for generic VectorWorks NURBS surfaces and solid NURBS surfaces.
Improved image file export.
Support for Sails Science Sailmaker ASC 3D files to allow image mapping on sails.
Support for export of 3D views to Sails Science Plotmaker, for example to convert graphics to plot files. The model can be exported as a cut or plot file.
Support for export as points.
Support for HPGL export as a flat projection from any 3D view or as unfolded patterns. The unfolded patterns use separate cut and plot pens and it supports custom object delimiters to separate object groups to allow editing within the plotting program.
Any number of control rulers can be added in a single step. Great for example when converting a smooth hull surface to a clinker-built hull style in seconds.
Improved file menu handling with the ten last used files listed in the file menu.
Auto scroll is now optional.
Closed shapes such as tubes can be edited so that the opening point when unfolded can be edited/moved.
The Controls at resolution command contains several new features such as a new option for eve distribution of control points over an object. Very useful when for example importing models from other programs and helps to generate more smooth looking surfaces.
All export format have been updated to reflect the new display modes features. If you for example set the display mode to mesh with cross sections, it will also export the model accordingly.