freecad

open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler

TLDR

Start FreeCAD

$ freecad

Open file

$ freecad [model.FCStd]

Start in console mode (no GUI)

$ freecad -c

Run a Python script in console mode

$ freecad -c [script.py]

Import and export a file to a different format

$ freecadcmd [model.FCStd] -o [output.step]

Add an additional module path

$ freecad -M [path/to/modules] [model.FCStd]

FreeCAD is an open-source parametric 3D CAD modeler. It supports multiple workbenches for different tasks: Part Design for mechanical parts, Sketcher for 2D drawings, Arch for architecture, and more.FreeCAD uses Python for scripting and macros, allowing automation and custom tools. It can import and export standard formats including STEP, IGES, STL, OBJ, and DXF.

PARAMETERS

file

File to open (.FCStd, .step, .iges, etc.).

-c, --console

Start in console mode without GUI. Optionally followed by a Python script to execute.

-o file

Output/export file (used with freecadcmd for format conversion).

-t, --run-test module

Run the specified test module.

--write-log

Write a log file to FreeCAD_Std.log in the user home directory.

-M path

Add an additional module search path.

-u file

Use the specified user configuration file.

-v, --version

Show version information.

CONFIGURATION

~/.config/FreeCAD/user.cfg

User preferences including workbench settings, appearance, units, and default paths.

~/.local/share/FreeCAD/Mod/

User-installed workbenches and macros directory.

WORKBENCHES

- Part Design: Parametric solid modeling- Sketcher: 2D constraint-based sketching- Draft: 2D drawing tools- Arch: Architectural modeling- FEM: Finite element analysis- Path: CNC toolpath generation

CAVEATS

Large assemblies may be slow. Learning curve for parametric modeling. Some import/export formats have limitations. Stability varies by version.

HISTORY

FreeCAD was started by Jürgen Riegel in 2002 and has been developed by a community of contributors. It became a significant open-source alternative to commercial CAD software, particularly for mechanical engineering and 3D printing.