Workshop: Introduction to 3D CAD (with Fusion 360)

Fusion 360 is a computer-assisted design software package. It is parametric, which means that you can always go back and change parameters and the entire design will update to match.

Typical workflow:

1. Create a sketch
2. Extrude the sketch
3. Modify body
4. Export

Creating a sketch

1. Select a surface to sketch on (plane or face of object)
2. Draw components (lines, circles, et al)
3. Specify dimensions
4. Apply constraints
5. Finish sketch

Extruding a sketch

1. Select sketch
2. Select parameters
3. Finish

Modifying bodies

1. Fillets/chamfers
2. Combining bodies

Exporting

1. Select object
2. Select destination
3. Export

In order to 3D print your design, the file must ideally be saved as an STL file. STL was not originally an acronym (several backronyms have been formed), although it is a shorthand for stereo-lithography CAD (computer assisted design). The STL file converts the design into a huge amount of tiny triangles. For more information visit [1].

To save the design as a STL file, you can press the icon in the toolbar representing a 3D printer, above MAKE. After pressing the icon, the settings window pops up. It is recommended you keep the refinement HIGH and you do not send the file to any printing utility. Simply click OK and then determine where you want the file to be saved.