📦‍ FreeCAD Beginner Tutorial - Crate 3D Model - FreeCAD Part Design Tutorial

Introduction

In this tutorial, you'll learn how to create a 3D model of a crate using FreeCAD 1.0. This step-by-step guide is designed for beginners and covers essential tools and techniques in the FreeCAD Part Design Workbench. By the end of this tutorial, you'll have a solid understanding of parametric modeling in FreeCAD.

Step 1: Setting Up FreeCAD

• Download and Install FreeCAD:

  • Visit the FreeCAD website and download the latest version.
  • Install the software by following the on-screen instructions.

• Open FreeCAD: Launch the application and create a new project.

Step 2: Creating the Crate Base

• Switch to Part Design Workbench:

  • Click on the Workbench selector in the toolbar and choose "Part Design".

• Create a New Body:

  • Click on the “Create new body” icon.

• Create a New Sketch:

  • Click on the “Create new sketch” icon and select the XY plane.

• Draw a Rectangle:

  • Use the rectangle tool to draw the base of the crate.
  • Set the dimensions to your desired size (e.g., 200mm x 100mm).

Step 3: Adding Thickness to the Base

• Close the Sketch:

  • Click on the “Close” button to exit the sketch.

• Pad the Base:

  • Select the sketch in the Model tree.
  • Click on the “Pad” icon and enter the thickness (e.g., 10mm).

Step 4: Creating the Walls

• Create a New Sketch for the Walls:

  • Select the top face of the crate base and create a new sketch.

• Draw the Wall Profiles:

  • Draw rectangles for the walls, ensuring they align with the edges of the base.
  • Set the height and thickness of the walls.

• Pad the Walls:

  • Close the sketch and use the Pad function to add height to the walls.

Step 5: Adding Cutouts for Handles

• Create a New Sketch on the Wall:

  • Select the wall where you want to add cutouts and create a new sketch.

• Draw the Cutout Shape:

  • Use the rectangle or circle tool to design the handle cutouts.
  • Position them appropriately for usability.

• Pocket the Cutouts:

  • Close the sketch and use the “Pocket” tool to cut through the wall.

Step 6: Finalizing the Crate Design

• Review the Model:

  • Rotate and inspect your crate model to ensure all features are correct.

• Make Adjustments:

  • If necessary, return to sketches to modify dimensions or features.

• Save Your Project:

  • Save the model by clicking on the “Save” icon and naming your project.

Conclusion

You've successfully created a 3D model of a crate in FreeCAD. This tutorial covered the basics of setting up FreeCAD, creating a base, walls, and cutouts, and finalizing your design. As a next step, consider exploring more advanced features in FreeCAD or experimenting with other models. Happy modeling!