When it comes to many of the best macOS apps on the planet, much of what makes them truly special is the way in which they embody everything that is wonderful about working on the macOS platform to begin with. Their “mac-ness” shines!

The 5 Best Native Mac CAD Apps

Here are the top five Mac CAD apps that really shine when it comes to embodying the best of Apple’s beloved platform. They also happen to be great CAD apps as well.

Number 1 — ARCHICAD

01 – The toolbar icons embody the essence of the new “flat look” in ArchiCAD 20’s new UI.

GRAPHISOFT in Hungary is the only software company in the world with its own Steve Jobs bronze statue. This company was born on the Mac (actually it was born on the Lisa). From the beginning ARCHICAD embraced classic Mac user-interface design while it innovated the principle of the “virtual building” a concept that eventually came to be known as BIM.

The latest version eschews older Mac UI concepts for brand new Apple UI concepts that tie both its macOS and iOS platforms looks together. A new “flat look” makes ARCHICAD’s interface look very clean and reflects its BIMx iOS app which is innovative in its own right. The company also supports the new Touch Bar in the MacBook Pro.

Number 2 — AutoCAD for Mac

05 – Autodesk supports the Apple Touch Bar in AutoCAD 2018 for Mac and AutoCAD LT for Mac.

Autodesk has been one of the CAD/3D industry’s strongest proponents of Apple since the later part of the last decade, following successful Mac products in Maya and Alias. When it comes to Apple goodies in the UX (user experience) and UI (user-interface) Autodesk delivers. They completely re-architected AutoCAD’s interface when they introduced their Mac version—intro’ing the dark theme—and later added macOS features like Coverflow navigation, Multitouch gestures, and Multiview split screen.

AutoCAD is a namesake in the CAD world and its version on Mac has pushed the boundaries of Apple UI for CAD tools.

Number 3 — HighDesign

03 – HighDesign was an Apple Developer Award winner when it came out.

HighDesign was founded in Italy and that Italian quality design ethos is every in this program. Created exclusively for macOS and the winner of an Apple Design Award, HighDesign features a stunning light or dark them user-interface. It also features elegant icons and a classic mac UI design layout. Part of its beauty is it took some risks to create unique UI features, like its beautifully crafted Radial Menu.

HighDesign is an entry-level professional 2D CAD system that enables architecture professionals, in particular, to create stunning drawings (like the one image above).

Number 4 — Graphite

01 – Ashlar-Vellum’s Graphite is a legend in the Mac CAD industry and one with staying power.

Ashlar-Vellum’s Graphite was originally called Vellum back in the day. The CAD program stands apart from the pack due to its very simplified classic MacDraw-like user-interface layout. Aside from its deep reflection of Mac design principles echoing the days of old, its Drafting Assistant technology makes working in Graphite highly effective. We would love to see this company add support for the Apple Touch Bar and its version 11 coming soon may indeed bring that feature.

Number 5 — Vectorworks

05 – Vectorworks 2018 doesn’t just support the Touch Bar, it breaks new ground in UI windowing.

Vectorworks 2018 not only supports the Apple MacBook Touch Bar, the venerable macOS market share CAD leader has broken new ground lately in crafting multiviews technology on a CAD application on the Mac. As the image shows above, you can spawn all kinds of viewports in this flexible multiview context—as many monitors and what your GPU can handle.

Vectorworks has always stayed true to its Mac roots (it used to be called MiniCAD) but it has learned it can do that while innovating UI at the same time.

Comments?

Have we missed a key software package? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis.

The post INDEX 04: 5 Best Native Mac CAD Apps appeared first on Architosh.

A Primer on MCAD for Mac

With the exception of the early 1990’s period, the mechanical CAD industry has largely avoided the macOS platform until the latter half of the last decade, when Autodesk signed renewed interest in the platform. This brought about some big announcements, most notably Siemens’ PLM software for OS X. When Apple faulted with the new 2013 Mac Pro, some of these big MCAD players faulted on their Mac plans due to a poor showing of interest with a lack of ideal Mac hardware. But that hasn’t stopped continued growth in smaller players. While the Catia, Creo, and SolidWorks of the world continue to eschew the platform (though many run those apps on Mac hardware in a virtualized environment or under Boot Camp) smaller players have emerged to fill the void.

One such group is actually a family of rivals, consisting of AutoCAD enemies in Dassault Systemes with DraftSight, Graebert’s ARES Commander (which is the engine in DraftSight), and Bricsys with its BricsCAD platform products. These are all DWG-based solutions and rival AutoCAD, which itself came back to the Mac platform at the end of the last decade.

The other set of MCAD products include web-based solutions or hybrid desktop-web solutions, in products Onshape and Autodesk Fusion 360, respectively.

We spotlight three MCAD apps for Mac below.

Mac MCAD Industry Notable Apps

The first one is BricsCAD Sheet Metal, a dedicated focused mechanical CAD application that is fully macOS native (as is the whole Bricsys family of products which support all three main platforms.). Certainly, BricsCAD itself—which comes in Classic, Pro, and Platinum versions is well suited for mechanical CAD. A comparison of AutoCAD shows it has more features in this department, like “assembly viewing,” and “assembly constraints,” and “assembly modeling” things that AutoCAD does not have on either PC or Mac. The Sheet Metal version adds more mechanical capacity to this Belgium-based application.

Moving away from the DWG-based new upstarts who are delivering powerful competitive pressures to Autodesk, new companies like Onshape are disrupting the biggest MCAD players due to the fact that the whole product is delivered through the web browser on any modern platform. They even have an iOS version that is exceptional. Onshape is aiming its arrow directly at Solidworks but from a disruptive position under the latter’s market. Onshape features ARES technology in its new drafting engine, and while Graebert is making an ARES Mechanical product, that product isn’t quite out on the market yet and may not be macOS compatible. Onshape has had a competitive influence on Autodesk’s similarly aimed product in Autodesk Fusion 360.

01 – BricsCAD features an extensive mechanical design feature set and a dedicated product devoted to sheet metal design.

02 – Onshape is the CAD industry darling at the moment with its fully web-based platform.

03 – IMSI/Design’s TurboCAD Pro Mac is fully ACIS based and punches way above its weight for a entry-level MCAD on the Mac platform.

IMSI/Design’s TurboCAD Mac Pro, which has been reviewed here on Architosh, is an ACIS based multi-disciplinary CAD system but one that is much stronger on the MCAD side. It’s PC sister app actually utilizes a different CAD engine and is not a one-to-one version of the Mac app. TurboCAD Mac Pro has sophisticated rendering built in and overall delivers a lot of bang for the buck.

When Architosh published its first Digital Practice Guide (Architosh DPG) back in 2000, the list of MCAD products was pretty slim. It has grown tremendously in rich options, even greater than the Mac side of the AEC market, where two sister (Nemetschek) companies dominate that market at a tremendous level. Of course, those sister companies, given their size, have grown their add-on application market tremendously on the global scale.

One thing that happens when a CAD platform gets really large is you get a whole family of third-party add-on applications sprouting up. We could see that happening to some of the leaders in the MCAD market that are new and still growing.

INDEX 02: A complete listing of Mac MCAD Apps

The list of MCAD apps for Mac has grown substantially since Architosh first launched in 1999. Below you will find….

• Argon — CAD and 3D precision modeling software for Mac and Windows. It offers wireframe, solid and surface history-free modeling with precision drawings, photo-realistic renderings, and animation. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ARES Commander — powerful CAD software for day-to-day work as well as complex projects. Leverage the productive tools and intelligent features for drafting and design that you’ve come to expect from top CAD products plus some exclusive productivity features, at significant cost savings. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• AutoCAD LT for Mac — the fully macOS native version of AutoCAD LT offers near feature parity with its Windows version and delivers it in a superior user-interface than its Windows version, taking advantage of unique Apple Mac user-interface features and integration, like support for the Apple Touch Bar on the MacBook Pro. (Mac OS X)
• Autodesk Fusion 360 — a modern web-based 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool aimed at product development and engineering and simulation. It features a modern development model and includes simulation tools. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• AutoCAD for Mac — this is the complete professional CAD package for AutoCAD on the macOS platform and has all the features of LT above plus a whole lot more in the form of 3D. (Mac OS X)
• BricsCAD — offers all the familiar .dwg 2D CAD features, yet it adds time-saving tools and 3D Direct Modeling. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD Sheet Metal — this innovative product offering adds specific feature sets for the sheet metal industry to the base BricsCAD product offering. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD Communicator — a high-quality 3D data exchange between major MCAD formats. This optional module to BricsCAD Pro or Platinum users can import and export 3D CAD data with all the major MCAD programs.
• BRL CAD — BRL-CAD is a powerful open source cross-platform solid modeling system that includes interactive geometry editing, high-performance ray-tracing for rendering and geometric analysis, a system performance analysis benchmark suite, geometry libraries for application developers, and more than 30 years of active development. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• Cobalt — the premier parametric 3D modeling and CAD program from Ashlar-Vellum. This application includes 2D and 3D production drafting along with advanced parametric modeling with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CorelCAD — an ARES-based DWG-native 2/3D CAD program that has unique ties to CorelDraw useful to manufacturers with extensive CAD and technical illustration workflows. (Mac OX and Windows)
• DraftSight Professional — an ARES-based native DWG 2D CAD system by industry giant, Dassault Systèmes. In terms of CAD usage, DraftSight has one of the largest user-bases in the world, with over 2 million downloads and counting. It comes with its own API and Dassault has largely used this platform to thwart Autodesk’s dominance in the CAD market.
• DraftSigth Enterprise — this version is just like the version above but for large organizations, NGOs, governments, who want full DWG native 2D CAD but with network licensing and built-in technical support plans.
• DesignFreeQ — is a drafting program is used in CAD/CAM to produce high precision drawings, but also in areas like technical illustration, documentation and education. Due to DesignFreeQ’s unique Inference Engine, drafting is made as easy as sketching on a piece of paper. (Mac OS X)
• DeltaCAD for Mac — is a fully-featured CAD application specially designed for architects and engineers that need an easy-to-use yet powerful drawing app. It features a distraction-free interface.
• Graphite — When you want 2D and 3D CAD software that’s easy to use, yet absolutely precise, that’s Graphite. Formerly known as Vellum®, Graphite offers extremely powerful, precision wire-frame drafting with the elegant ease-of-use that makes it productive even when only used occasionally.
• HighDesign — award-winning 2D CAD program originally made exclusively for Mac OS X, it ships in LT and Pro versions. The Windows version is currently in Beta.
• LibreCAD —  free Open Source CAD application. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• MacDraft — UK-based native Mac OS X CAD program comes in both Professional and PE (Personal Learning) editions, while Professional can open and edit AutoCAD DWG files. (Mac OS X)
• Onshape — Design, version, and share parts, assemblies, and drawings from anywhere for less than your legacy CAD maintenance fees. (web-based)
• OpenSCAD — a programmer’s solid 3D CAD modeller available for Linux, UNIX, Windows and Mac OS X. Its free open source software.
• SharkCAD — SharkCAD is a comprehensive 2D/3D CAD program that ships an entry and pro versions. It features KeyShot Live Linking and advanced NURBS surface modeling. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• TurboCAD Mac Designer — IMSI/Design’s entry-level 2D drafting CAD program is a well-regarded stable in the Mac CAD community aimed at the prosumer market. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Deluxe 2D/3D — IMSI/Design’s mid-level CAD package for Mac features ACIS modeling tools along with strong 2D drafting CAD features, including support for 3D printing and both AEC and MCAD tools. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Pro — is IMSI/Design’s professional mid-level 2D/3D CAD package and includes both ACIS modeling, AutoCAD DWG compatibility and powerful rendering tools along with 3D printing support. (Mac OS X)
• Vectorworks Designer — The complete package of all vertical industry series solutions of the Vectorworks product line. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Fundamentals — the entry-level version of the Vectorworks product line, focused on general CAD and modeling needs across various industries. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ViaCAD — like SharkCAD made by PunchCAD and aimed at the prosumer or consumer CAD market, ViaCAD ships in 2D, 2D/3D versions and ViaCAD Pro. Taken together the PunchCAD product line ranges in price from $40USD – $1895USD. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Xenon — this is a full-featured 3D modeling and production drafting (2D/3D) application by Ashlar-Vellum similar to Cobalt but without parametric modeling. It has associative 3D modeling instead which is not as powerful. This is Ashlar Vellum’s mid-range product. (Mac OS X and Windows)

Growing This List

Have we missed a key software package? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

Listing of Updates by Date

15 Dec 2017 — Page last updated on.

01 Nov 2017 — Creation Date.

The post INDEX 02: CAD: MCAD (Mechanical Computer-Aided Design) appeared first on Architosh.

Geographically, Vectorworks dominates a limited set of countries, Switzerland being one of them. It has often boasted of being the number one leading CAD application in Japan, the second largest AEC industry in the world behind the United States, and it is also particularly strong in Germany, UK, and Benelux countries.

In the United States, the largest global economy and the largest AEC industry, Vectorworks has an estimated market share of between 15-20% of architectural firms. This market share is approximate to other rivals, including its sister company, GRAPHISOFT, who all vie for the remaining market share after Autodesk takes the majority of it.

Vectorworks Add-Ons—Notable Items

There are 31 interesting and powerful add-on applications and plugins for Vectorworks below but here are three notable items every Vectorworks user should know about.

The first of these is SmartPaste, developed by G.P.Works in the UK. SmartPaste solves the problem unwanted class proliferation when importing objects or content from other CAD files into your files. You can merge classes associated with the incoming content with your particular in-file class setup. You can also save settings so every time you import your structural engineer’s plans into your plans her classes merge intelligently into your class system setup.

01 – SmartPaste is a powerful and useful plugin app for Vectorworks.

02 – AnimationWorks is a must-have plugin for Vectorworks users needed complex animation controls.

03 – Modelo is a stand-out cloud app that supplies a Vectorworks plugin for its innovative solution.

Another useful plugin is AnimationWorks by OzCAD of Australia. This brings more complex animation options to Vectorworks’ built-in animation features, such as defining camera paths, class visibility animation, which helps set up a sophisticated appearance or “move in” movies, sophisticated camera setups that can be aimed at fixed or moving objects, object animation and much more. The third notable plugin is for Modelo, which as a cloud-based model viewing, annotation, collaboration and 360-degree experience platform offers Vectorworks users powerful options for their clients and teams.

INDEX 03:  Vectorworks Workflows and Add-Ons

Here we have listed all Vectorworks Add-on Applications and Plugins that support the Mac OS X platform, along with Windows in most cases. There are 31 apps in this list.

Here we have listed all Vectorworks Add-on Applications and Plugins that support the Mac OS X platform, along with Windows in most cases.

• 3D Dimension Converter — Converts Dimensions into 3D objects ready for your Isometric dimensioned view.
• AnimationWorks — Add-on for creating complex camera animations.
• Audio Toolset 2 — a suite of tools used to create loudspeaker 3d models in various arrays. Can be useful for checking basic audio coverage.
• Beam Draw 4 — another plugin aimed at the entertainment industry, it helps visualize lighting angles and coverage. There are numerous other plugins for this industry here by this same developer.
• Calendar + Event Label — An easy-to-use pair of plug-ins for creating fully customizable calendars, retro-plans, or project schedules with event labels directly within Vectorworks.
• connectCAD — Software add-on that lets you design and keep track of cables in connected systems. Used in audio-visual, broadcast, lighting, and IT the world over.
• Custom Beams — A plug-in tool for creating wooden and extruded beams.
• DeckWorks Plugin by Trex® — A plug-in tool for designing outdoor living spaces in 2D and 3D.
• Baseboard v1 — a plugin for creating baseboard profiles more quickly than the common extrude methods, with ready-to-use profiles, editability, and more.
• Downspouts — easily add gutter and downspout designs to your BIM models.
• Elements — a flexible plugin for creating repeating extruded elements for uses like sun shades, claddings, weatherboards and more.
• ElementsCAD for Vectorworks — another powerful plugin add-on for the creation of cabinetry developed in Germany.
• Furniture v2 — an advanced plugin for creating furniture 3D models quickly using a notation code system that drives parametric-generated objects.
• Frames v1 — a plugin that allows the parametric creation of framed mirrors or pictures, with 16 ready-to-use profiles with parametric dimensions.
• interiorcad for Vectorworks — based on Vectorworks this product is aimed at detailed cabinet and kitchen design, built to high standards the software is made in Germany and distributed to many countries, the US not being one of them however.
• iSymbol Vectorworks — less a plugin and more a collection of elaborate landscape design symbols for use in Vectorworks. The company makes extensive symbols for Vectorworks and other CAD programs.
• interiors xs — similar to the full-featured interiorcad for Vectorworks but with less features.
• Intuitive Tools — a free collection of Vectorworks plugins from the folks behind SmartPaste.
• Lightwright 6 — The Lightwright to Vectorworks data exchange helps users better manage their professional lighting documents. Lightwright is a Mac and Windows application and a gold standard in the entertainment industry.
• MiniCAD Translater — An Australia users only conversion application.
• Modelo — a plugin for Vectorworks that enables users to upload their 3D models directly into Modelo’s web browser-based presentation and collaboration platform. Modelo is used by some leading architecture firms, like Vinoly, KPF, LMN, and others.
• Panel Wizard — originally used to create complicated grids on the fly, this plugin is excellent for spacing items across complicated grid arrangements and will save you time.
• Ribbon Tools — this plugin is an excellent tool for drawing double-wall sections like those used for alum. windows. Superior to the double-line poly tool because it can provide radii for corners.
• Progressive — a plugin that converts a string of comma-separated progressive dimensions into a graphical element. This is pretty useful in many situations.
• SimTread — this is a powerful simulation and analysis program for doing pedestrian simulation inside of Vectorworks. It assists in life safety design for architects and was originally developed in a Japanese University.
• SmartPaste — this plugin app smartly manages the copy and paste function when content is exchanged across different files, merging any incoming class with existing classes so that they are not “automatically” added to your file. But the plugin can do even more when importing objects from external consultants.
• topeScope 2.3 — this little app is useful for viewing solid models created on Vectorworks and saved to the STL format for 3D printing, for example. In the app, the user can find errors and then correct them back in Vectorworks. (Mac OS X)
• TouchCAD — like topeScope 2.3, this program too is a stand-alone software that works in VW workflows, users can unfold complex model shapes in TouchCAD. Not just for that, TouchCAD is useful for more complex modeling, sheet-metal unfolding, and reverse-engineering. (Mac OS X)
• WinDoor — An add-on plugin for handling complex design of doors and windows in Vectorworks. Ships for free in Australia and New Zealand Vectorworks distributions.
• VectorMEP 2018 — formerly Extensio, this powerful plugin is to design and model duct and piping systems within Vectorworks. It comes in VectorMEP Basic and VectorMEP Premium versions.
• Vectorworks 3D Printing Plugin — plugin from German 3YOURMIND, it takes your model and analyzes it, repairs it, and can scale it in preparation for 3D printing.

Growing This List

Have we missed a key Vectorworks Add-On software package or plugin? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Speaking of which. Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

List Update Log

25 Nov 2017 — Creation Date

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The post INDEX 03: Vectorworks Workflows and Add-Ons appeared first on Architosh.

With strategic and marketing assistance from Apple, GRAPHISOFT had an early start on the notion of the “virtual building” which would later become termed as Building Information Modeling (BIM). Headquartered in Budapest, Hungary, and owned by the Nemetschek Group in Germany, GRAPHISOFT’s programmers have been writing some of the most efficient lines of code in the world in the AEC market. The BIM leader is widely regarded as having the fastest BIM technology in the world, particularly at scale on super large structures.

ARCHICAD’s technical leadership was not lost on Japan’s big five AEC companies. Three of the big five companies have standardized on ARCHICAD as their BIM platform of choice. One company, the architectural office of Nikken Sekkei Co. Ltd., the fourth largest architectural firm in the world, recently announced an online AC learning site titled ARCHICAD-Learning.com. For those who know Japanese, this is a superb free learning resource for ARCHICAD.

ARCHICAD Add-Ons—Notable Items

There are nearly 50 interesting and powerful add-on applications and plugins for ARCHICAD that extend the AC workflow. Many add-ons empower AC to perform better in certain countries and are therefore country or region specific. For example, SmartCON Planner is specifically created for the Japanese AEC industry and leverages ARCHICAD for visualization and planning of construction work. We have written about the app here.

01 – SmartCON Planner is a Japan-only add-on for ARCHICAD that plans and visualizes construction.

02 – BIMcollab ZOOM shown here, the AC add-on ties to two software systems together.

01 – The Rhino-Grasshopper-ArchiCAD connection links AC to the world’s most popular advanced algorithmic modeling design tool.

BIMcollab BCF Manager is an excellent add-on that leverages the buildingSMART file format BCF (BIM Collaboration Format) inside of AC to tie into the BIMcollab system for cloud-driven comprehensive issue management. Well there are numerous country-based add-ons, like SS3 Converter for ARCHICAD, a structural solution for the Japan AEC industry, or ArchiSuite, a suite of add-ons that provide value to AC in the Italian AEC industry, perhaps the most important add-on that bears mentioning is GRAPHISOFT’s own Rhino-Grasshopper-ARCHICAD (RGA) that ties McNeel’s Grasshopper algorithmic modeling environment to AC enabling designers to power their early design work with algorithms.

INDEX 03: ARCHICAD Workflows and Add-Ons

Here we have listed all ARCHICAD Add-on Applications and Plugins that in most cases support Mac OS X platform along with Windows platforms.

• ADS-BT for ARCHICAD — designed for the Japanese building industry, this add-on application addresses complex height and building envelop restrictions enforced in Japan only. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ADS Converter — add-on software for the Japanese market that can convert AC file information for site and building to native ADS-win file format family of applications for the study of sky-rate simulations and calculations. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• archifm.net — ARCHICAD’s BIM Facility Management Module. Built on the traditions of ArchiFM the new archifm.net BIM FM system provides comprehensive CAFM functionality utilizing ARCHICAD’s BIM model. Archifm.net uses all FM related data from the BIM model including MEP and also supports ARCHICAD’s COBIe compliant models even for building maintenance. (Windows)
• BIMobject — The BIMobject App allows you, as an ARCHICAD user to browse and download manufacturer specific content from the BIMobject.com cloud directly into any ARCHICAD 15, 16 or 17 project. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Artlantis — The Artlantis export plug-in is installed by default in ARCHICAD. The plug-in offers you the possibility to update your second Artlantis file and take over the settings from the first one in case you need to change anything in the ARCHICAD model. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ArchiFrame — ArchiFrame is an add-on that extends AC into a complete design tool for wooden structures. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ArchiSuite — this long-time add-on suite extends AC with powerful features in discreet modules including ArchiTerraPlus, ArchiForma 2, ArchiTile 2, ArchiTime, ArchiPanel, ArchiMap, ArchiQuant 2, ArchiGiallieRossi, and ArchiTools. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ARCHICAD Connection for Revit — this connection add-on by Graphisoft isn’t something you add onto AC but instead its a plugin for Autodesk Revit itself. The plugin improves bi-directional exchange with Revit. (Windows)
• BIMcollab BCF Manager — Complete Issue Management Ecosystem. It provides the ability to create and modify issues and communicate these through BIMcollab or via BCF files (supports version 1.0 and 2.x) directly from within ARCHICAD. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Cadimage Tools — A collection of add-on tools for AC that includes Cadimage Cabinets, Coverings, Doors+Windows, Electrical, Keynotes, Stairs, Objective and more, including the second edition of the GDL Handbook by Andrew Watson. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Cadimage FrameWright — A tool developed to help heavy wood timber framers harness the power of ARCHICAD, with technology for timber joints, timber and steel framing libraries, and more. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Cadys II — Japanese market proprietary BIMCAD system designed specifically for designing steel stairs. The app is based on ARCHICAD and makes an unprecedented connection between the fields of construction and manufacturing. Yokomori Seisakusho CO. Ltd.
• Ceiling Grid-USA — Slab accessory that applies 3D & 2D grid lines to the surface of a slab that can be snapped to and centered in a ceiling area. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CostX — the CostX translator is a specific XML file that enables optimized auto-quantity takeoff from ARCHICAD IFC files that feeds into the Exactal estimating software series (CostX).
• e-SPECS — The e-SPECS Specification Management product suite serves to automate the preparation of construction specifications and selection of products and materials that are incorporated into construction projects. With e-SPECS for ARCHICAD, users have truly integrated and coordinated construction documents. (Windows)
• Eptar Reinforcement Tool — Eptar Reinforcement tool opens up the world of ARCHICAD towards civil engineers who work closely with fellow architects. The solution provides a helpful tool that enables civil engineers and architects to work on the same BIM model, without leaving the ARCHICAD environment, making this an ideal add-on for medium-sized architecture firms.
• Eptar Tiling 2.0 — A wall and floor tiling application add-on for AC that simplifies the process of designing tiling and the calculations work that goes along with tiling. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• EcoDesigner STAR — this add-on by GRAPHISOFT aimed at energy conscious design of structures, it is available in certain countries, including Brazil, Australia, Canada, South Africa, among others but not the United States. No separate download is necessary but a license is required to unlock the features. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Exit SIgn USA 20 — adds and shows exit signs in 3D and adds the 2D symbol on the electrical plan. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Goodies — Goodies are free Add-Ons developed by GRAPHISOFT to complete ARCHICAD with specific abilities and features, such as 3D Studio In, Interior Wizard, Mesh to Roof Tool. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Google Earth Connection — a seamless integration of ARCHICAD and Google Earth. For the Japanese market for AC. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• HKLSE Modeller — This German-based MEP BIM tool integrates seamlessly with ARCHICAD providing full 3D capabilities directly in AC for MEP disciplines, including providing collision detection automatically. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• MassPlan for ARCHICAD — This add-on app is for doing volume studies and perform area tabulations, among other tabulation work. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• MEP Label USA — Label for MEP elements in the BIM model. The dimensions of a pipe or duct are automatically indicated. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• MEP Modeler — This GRAPHISOFT application is a key add-on for AC and brings in a full suite of MEP BIM capabilities for ductwork, piping, cabling and more. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• MESH Label USA 20 — shows the area of a mesh on a plan.
• MODELPORT — 3D model and object importer for AC that expands content for users. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• OrthoGraph — a building survey measurement mobile app for iOS and Android that seamlessly passes its CAD and BIM data to native AC file format. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• RENDERLights — RENDERLights provides architects, visualization pros, designers and other professionals with a powerful virtual reality tool.
• Rhino-Grasshopper-ARCHICAD Toolset — this key add-on links Grasshopper to AC in order to create algorithmic BIM models. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Roof Slope Label — A label for roofs that show automatically the slope on plan or section and adds the Slope Triangle to sections and elevations. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• SmartCON Planner — developed by the Kajima Corporation in Japan, the application visualizes the construction process to solve for and eliminate errors. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Solibri Model Checker — Solibri Model Checker is a BIM quality assurance software solution that analyzes Building Information Models and architectural and engineering designs for integrity, quality and physical safety. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• SimpleAddon: Design — add-on app that helps design and model gutters, roof supports and place ridge tile.
• SimpleAddon: Section View — add-on that assists with section copy, dimensioning and zone name.
• SimpleAddon: Document — add-on can help change layer of selected elements in a single step, as well as measure travel distance of polyline in a single step.
• SimpleAddon: Edit — contains an add-on that places door or windows at a given position from the corner or middle of a room.
• Shadow-Planner — an add-on for the Japanese market that studies sun and shadow conditions to meet Japanese market building regulations. Provided by the Lifestyle Industries Research Institute, Co., Ltd.
• SMART-XA — A South African country native solution that integrates with ARCHICAD in that country.
• SS3 Converter for ARCHICAD — this is an add-on software for exporting the BIM model created by AC to the integrated structural calculation software Super Build / SS3, provided by Union Systems Co., Ltd.
• Tekla BIMsight — Tekla BIMsight is a free application that improves design, construction, and maintenance workflow processes.
• Terrain Tool — an add-on that creates flat surfaces on a topo mesh and eventually calculates the fill/excavations. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Travel Distance USA — an add-on that calculates the total length of a polyline to show travel distance to meet the IBC 2015 section 1017 Exit Access Travel Distance Chapter 10 Means of Egress code requirements.
• Trelligence Affinity — Affinity is a flexible software tool that enables users to begin anywhere in the programming & design process.
• Twinmotion — Award-winning Twinmotion is a real-time 3D immersion software that is changing the way designers and engineers interact with their models. The add-on is installed by default in ARCHICAD. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• vintoCON — The proven BIM-based solutions of vintoCON, in seamless integration with ARCHICAD, open new dimensions for building professionals throughout the entire building lifecycle – from the design process through the construction stages till the facility operation/maintenance management is established. (Windows)
• WinDoorBuilder for ARCHICAD — A native Australia-only add-on for AC that complements the BIM program’s native windows and doors functions with expanded features.
• Zone Tag USA — A zone stamp developed to enhance the appearance of Room/Zone Names but mostly to assist in the definition of Means of Egress to meet IBC 2006/2012. (Mac OS X and Windows)

Growing This List

Have we missed a key ARCHICAD Add-On software package or plugin? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Speaking of which. Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

List Update Log

26 Dec 2017 — Page last modified.

26 Nov 2017 — Creation Date

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The post INDEX 03: ARCHICAD Workflows and Add-Ons appeared first on Architosh.

We must note that we do understand we have missed some apps, or put them into a future 3D apps list for macOS which is coming up very soon. But here is the list thus far. And it’s quite healthy!

Some Notable Mac CAD/CAM Apps

Since we highlight some of the most important CAD apps for Mac on other more specific lists, we wanted to draw folks attention to three CAD apps that honestly either don’t get the attention and marketing they deserve or are rather new in the world. This is not an endorsement; it’s meant to illustrate growth in the application space in the macOS platform.

One of the more notable signs of growth in the Mac CAD market was when Chief Architect came to the platform in 2013. The actual product line is three products, with Chief Architect Premier, Chief Architect Interiors and Chief Architect Lite. Chief Architect is a powerful 2D/3D BIM-based design tool aimed at builder-developers in the home market but a good many architects use it as well and swear by it.

A software app we have reviewed several times is TurboCAD Pro Mac. This app is one of the best values in the entry to mid-level CAD market because it provides strong mechanical and product design features, including support for 3D printing, robust AutoCAD DWG support and smart tools for AEC CAD users. TurboCAD too comes in three different levels but the ACIS based NURBS modeling versions at the mid and upper levels provide a lot of firepower for the buck.

01 – Chief Architect is legend among builders and it now runs on the Mac.

02 – TurboCAD Pro Mac is one of the best MCAD products values on the market.

03 – MacDraft is a veteran CAD app on the Mac and it has a charming interface with solid features.

Unlike Chief Architect, MacDraft is a veteran product in the Mac community. The UK-based CAD developer was among the core group of early CAD software providers on the Mac platform, offering tools at the lower-end of the market. Always one to stay rather up-to-date with the latest Mac standards, MacDraft has “smart-snap” technology. The latest version features custom grid colors, custom guides, a template chooser, a helper palette and a lot more. MacDraft is regarded as an easy-to-learn and fun CAD system.

There are over 50 CAD applications listed below and we start breaking them down into industry-specific lists for you here and deeper into the big leaders in the market who have dozens upon dozens of add-on applications and plugins available.

The bottom line is—there has never been a better time to be a Mac CAD user. So many choices!

INDEX 01:  A complete “alphabetical-ordered” listing of Mac CAD/CAM Apps

We have over 59 macOS native CAD applications in this list below but we know there are likely others out there we need to add—and will certainly do!

• ARCHICAD — offers computer-aided solutions for handling all common aspects of aesthetics and engineering during the whole design process of the built environment — buildings, interiors and urban areas. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ArchiFacile — free floor or house planner software which allows you to design them in two dimensional. This tool is very beneficial for architects as it allows to export design in PDF format. It can be used to plan floor, house, garage, wooden house, a garden shed or pool. (web-based)
• Argon — CAD and 3D precision modeling software for Mac and Windows. It offers wireframe, solid and surface history-free modeling with precision drawings, photo-realistic renderings, and animation. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ARES Commander — powerful CAD software for day-to-day work as well as complex projects. Leverage the productive tools and intelligent features for drafting and design that you’ve come to expect from top CAD products plus some exclusive productivity features, at significant cost savings. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• Autodesk Alias — An industrial design software widely used in the auto industry for concept design, surface modeling, and visualization. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Autodesk Fusion 360 — a modern web-based 3D CAD, CAM and CAE tool aimed at product development and engineering and simulation. It features a modern development model and includes simulation tools. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• AutoCAD LT for Mac — the fully macOS native version of AutoCAD LT offers near feature parity with its Windows version and delivers it in a superior user-interface than its Windows version, taking advantage of unique Apple Mac user-interface features and integration, like support for the Apple Touch Bar on the MacBook Pro. (Mac OS X)
• AutoCAD for Mac — this is the complete professional CAD package for AutoCAD on the macOS platform and has all the features of LT above plus a whole lot more in the form of 3D. (Mac OS X)
• AutoQ3D CAD — 2D and 3D CAD application that allows you to create, edit and share your drawings and designs. It is intended for everybody as professionals, sketchers, architects, engineers, designers, students and more. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• BricsCAD — offers all the familiar .dwg 2D CAD features, yet it adds time-saving tools and 3D Direct Modeling. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD BIM — a powerful full-featured and native DWG file 2D/3D CAD and BIM system that features direct-modeling, IFC support and more. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD Sheet Metal — this innovative product offering adds specific feature sets for the sheet metal industry to the base BricsCAD product offering. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BRL CAD — BRL-CAD is a powerful open source cross-platform solid modeling system that includes interactive geometry editing, high-performance ray-tracing for rendering and geometric analysis, a system performance analysis benchmark suite, geometry libraries for application developers, and more than 30 years of active development. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD Communicator — a high-quality 3D data exchange between major MCAD formats. This optional module to BricsCAD Pro or Platinum users can import and export 3D CAD data with all the major MCAD programs.
• CAD File Converter 4 — this is a DWG-DXF-PDF convert, view and print application and also handles conversion of DWF, Autodesk’s PDF competitor format.
• CADtools 11 — brings the power of CAD tools to Adobe Illustrator complete with robust dimensioning, symbols, CAD walls, axon support and much more. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CADpatterns —  from the same folks at CADtools 11, this app brings 134 editable architectural CAD patterns to Adobe Illustrator and can be used in conjunction with CADtools. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CADintosh — 2D-CAD software for electrical, mechanical and architectural drawings. it has interactive window redrawing, where the user can work at the same time as the window is redrawing, also easy to Import and export your work into multiple format such as HPGL, DXF, and PICT.(Mac OS X)
• Chief Architect — The industry leader for residential architectural home design software. This program is easy to use for the building professional.
• DraftSight Professional — an ARES-based native DWG 2D CAD system by industry giant, Dassault Systèmes. In terms of CAD usage, DraftSight has one of the largest user-bases in the world, with over 2 million downloads and counting. It comes with its own API and Dassault has largely used this platform to thwart Autodesk’s dominance in the CAD market.
• DraftSigth Enterprise — this version is just like the version above but for large organizations, NGOs, governments, who want full DWG native 2D CAD but with network licensing and built-in technical support plans.
• Cobalt — the premier parametric 3D modeling and CAD program from Ashlar-Vellum. This application includes 2D and 3D production drafting along with advanced parametric modeling with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CorelCAD — an ARES-based DWG-native 2/3D CAD program that has unique ties to CorelDraw useful to manufacturers with extensive CAD and technical illustration workflows. (Mac OX and Windows)
• DesignFreeQ — is a drafting program is used in CAD/CAM to produce high precision drawings, but also in areas like technical illustration, documentation and education. Due to DesignFreeQ’s unique Inference Engine, drafting is made as easy as sketching on a piece of paper. (Mac OS X)
• DeltaCAD for Mac — is a fully-featured CAD application specially designed for architects and engineers that need an easy-to-use yet powerful drawing app. It features a distraction-free interface.
• DigiCAD 3D — this is a photogrammetry, mapping, and architectural surveys application useful to the CAD processes supporting these applications.
• DomusCAD Pro — You can immediately begin to create three-dimensional elements without needing to start from a two-dimensional plan. Elements such as walls, floors, roofs, and stairs are created from the onset in their full three-dimensional form. Watch the 3D model change in real time as you design in plan. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• DomusTerra — land modeling CAD program for architecture from the same folks behind DomusCAD Pro.  (Mac OS X and Windows)
• DoodleCAD — DoodleCAD is an easy to learn, feature rich and inexpensive vector drawing and 2D CAD tool that gives Mac OS X users the tools they need to do illustrations, diagrams, and mechanical drawings like a pro at a very affordable price. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Eagle — Make anything with EAGLE PCB design software. Powerful, easy-to-use tools for every engineer. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• eDrawings Viewer — CAD viewer for Mac which delivers a premier 3D viewing experience for non CAD professionals. eDrawings Viewer enables anyone to quickly and easily view, print and review native eDrawings and SOLIDWORKS files in addition to AutoCAD DWG and DXF files.
• FreeCAD — FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects of any size. FreeCAD is open-source and highly customizable, scriptable and extensible. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• Graphite — When you want 2D and 3D CAD software that’s easy to use, yet absolutely precise, that’s Graphite. Formerly known as Vellum®, Graphite offers extremely powerful, precision wire-frame drafting with the elegant ease-of-use that makes it productive even when only used occasionally.
• HighDesign — award-winning 2D CAD program originally made exclusively for Mac OS X, it ships in LT and Pro versions. The Windows version is currently in Beta.
• Home Sketcher — Thanks to a high-level, intuitive plan drafting tool, you can design your home in just a few clicks!
• iCADMac — made by the same folks behind progeCAD, this is a full CAD alternative to AutoCAD that is DWG native and supports a user-friendly 2D/3D CAD system native to macOS. It is highly customizable and very affordable. progeCAD is one of the several high-quality AutoCAD clone CAD companies and this is their Mac version.
• ImplicitCAD — is a programmatic CAD program, implemented in Haskell. Unlike traditional CAD programs, programmatic CAD programs use text descriptions of objects, as in programming. Concepts like variables, control structures, and abstraction are used, just as in programming.
• Live Home 3D — Live Home 3D, a successor of Live Interior 3D, is the powerful yet intuitive home design software that lets you build the house of your dreams right on your Mac or Windows.
• LibreCAD —  free Open Source CAD application. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• MacDraft — UK-based native Mac OS X CAD program comes in both Professional and PE (Personal Learning) editions, while Professional can open and edit AutoCAD DWG files. (Mac OS X)
• Microspot DWG Viewer — a Mac OS X native DWG file viewer and annotation and printing tool. (Mac OS X)
• Onshape — Design, version, and share parts, assemblies, and drawings from anywhere for less than your legacy CAD maintenance fees. (web-based)
• PLaSM — open source scripting language for solid modeling, a discipline that constitutes the foundation of computer-aided design and CAD systems. In contrast to other CAD programs, PLaSM emphasizes scripting rather than interactive GUI work. (Mac OS X, Linux and Windows)
• PowerCADD — You want drawings that look like those you’ve always done by hand — or better. Exquisitely detailed. Perfect arrows. Crisp lines. Or maybe even a squiggly sketch. You don’t want it to look like it was done on a computer. (Mac OS X)
• Punch Interiors for Mac — Bring the interior design of your home to life with this consumer-oriented 2D/3D easy to use design program focused on home interiors. (Mac OS X)
• PunchCAD Landscape for Mac — Bring your home’s exterior features to their full potential with the all-new Landscape Design for Mac version 19.  A PunchCAD product aimed at the prosumer market. (Mac OS X)
• Sailcut CAD — It is a sail design and plotting software for Architectures. It allows you to design and visualize your own sail and compute the accurate development of all panels in flat sheets.
• SharkCAD — SharkCAD is a comprehensive 2D/3D CAD program that ships an entry and pro versions. It features KeyShot Live Linking and advanced NURBS surface modeling. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• solidThinking Evolve — an industrial design software that competes with Autodesk Alias for advanced surface modeling, concept design, product design, etc. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• topeScope 2.3 — this little app is useful for viewing solid models created on Vectorworks and saved to the STL format for 3D printing, for example. In the app, the user can find errors and then correct them back in Vectorworks. (Mac OS X)
• TouchCAD — like topeScope 2.3, this program too is a stand-alone software that works in VW workflows, users can unfold complex model shapes in TouchCAD. Not just for that, TouchCAD is useful for more complex modeling, sheet-metal unfolding, and reverse-engineering. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Designer — IMSI/Design’s entry-level 2D drafting CAD program is a well-regarded stable in the Mac CAD community aimed at the prosumer market. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Deluxe 2D/3D — IMSI/Design’s mid-level CAD package for Mac features ACIS modeling tools along with strong 2D drafting CAD features, including support for 3D printing and both AEC and MCAD tools. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Pro — is IMSI/Design’s professional mid-level 2D/3D CAD package and includes both ACIS modeling, AutoCAD DWG compatibility and powerful rendering tools along with 3D printing support. (Mac OS X)
• Vectorworks Architect — a full BIM and CAD application oriented at the professional architectural market used for modeling, BIM, and drafting documentation. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Designer — The complete package of all vertical industry series solutions of the Vectorworks product line. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Fundamentals — the entry-level version of the Vectorworks product line, focused on general CAD and modeling needs across various industries. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Landmark — a full BIM and CAD application for landscape architects, urban designers, and other landscape designers. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Spotlight — an industry-leading application for the design of entertainment venues and performance spaces with simulated lighting, rigging, and documentation tools. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ViaCAD — like SharkCAD made by PunchCAD and aimed at the prosumer or consumer CAD market, ViaCAD ships in 2D, 2D/3D versions and ViaCAD Pro. Taken together the PunchCAD product line ranges in price from $40USD – $1895USD. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Xenon — this is a full-featured 3D modeling and production drafting (2D/3D) application by Ashlar-Vellum similar to Cobalt but without parametric modeling. It has associative 3D modeling instead which is not as powerful. This is Ashlar Vellum’s mid-range product. (Mac OS X and Windows)

Growing This List

Have we missed a key software package? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

Listing of Updates by Date

15 Dec 2017 — Page last updated on.

01 Nov 2017 — Creation Date.

The post INDEX 01: All Mac CAD/CAM Apps—Alphabetical Listing appeared first on Architosh.

Here are three key multi-disciplinary apps we want to draw your attention to.

Some Notable Multi-disciplinary Mac CAD Apps

When it comes to multi-disciplinary CAD apps we mean those that can be used across AEC, MCAD and CAID (computer-aided industrial design) or product design CAD systems. With the emphasis on the way things are being made at the present time, with additive manufacturing, 3D printing and simulation and digital prototyping, there should be a focus on tools that touch these points.

Ashlar-Vellum’s Graphite is one of the more interesting CAD packages in this list. A veteran in the market, it features Ashlar-Vellum’s innovative user-interface, it features advanced equation-driven parametrics, a BOM, output for CAM and 3D printing, and a Smartwall tool for easy floor-plan making. Though its strength is not so much in AEC, the application excels as a versatile generalist CAD package.

It would be remiss to not spotlight Autodesk AutoCAD for Mac. The giant of the global CAD market, its return to the Mac platform was uniquely covered in features in the past. While not a complete parity of features to its Windows sister app, AutoCAD for Mac and the LT version offer a complete professional and versatile environment for all types of CAD projects. And the company has been aggressive in adopting Apple’s macOS updates with unique features like Touch Bar support.

01 – Ashlar-Vellum’s Graphite is a legend in the Mac CAD industry and one with staying power.

02 – AutoCAD for Mac offers diversity in capabilities in full and LT versions.

03 – HighDesign offers a powerful CAD package at entry-level prices wrapped in a gorgeous user-interface.

In a lower edge of the market, HighDesign is a stunningly beautiful application that was created just for Apple’s Mac platform. Recently the developers have started taking the app to Windows because of demand by potential users, who feel the unique feature set is the type of CAD application that is missing in the Windows world. In essence, the very Mac-ness of the app is actually part of the appeal to these users.

These are just three great choices. The list below provides many others at different price points but most capable fo handling multiple generalist needs.

INDEX 02:  CAD: Multi-disciplinary Mac CAD Apps

We have 20 solutions below that constitute rather robust generalist options for CAD on the Mac platform.

• Argon — CAD and 3D precision modeling software for Mac and Windows. It offers wireframe, solid and surface history-free modeling with precision drawings, photo-realistic renderings, and animation. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ARES Commander — powerful CAD software for day-to-day work as well as complex projects. Leverage the productive tools and intelligent features for drafting and design that you’ve come to expect from top CAD products plus some exclusive productivity features, at significant cost savings. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• AutoCAD LT for Mac — the fully macOS native version of AutoCAD LT offers near feature parity with its Windows version and delivers it in a superior user-interface than its Windows version, taking advantage of unique Apple Mac user-interface features and integration, like support for the Apple Touch Bar on the MacBook Pro. (Mac OS X)
• AutoCAD for Mac — this is the complete professional CAD package for AutoCAD on the macOS platform and has all the features of LT above plus a whole lot more in the form of 3D. (Mac OS X)
• BricsCAD — offers all the familiar .dwg 2D CAD features, yet it adds time-saving tools and 3D Direct Modeling. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BRL CAD — BRL-CAD is a powerful open source cross-platform solid modeling system that includes interactive geometry editing, high-performance ray-tracing for rendering and geometric analysis, a system performance analysis benchmark suite, geometry libraries for application developers, and more than 30 years of active development. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• CADintosh — 2D-CAD software for electrical, mechanical and architectural drawings. it has interactive window redrawing, where the user can work at the same time as the window is redrawing, also easy to Import and export your work into multiple format such as HPGL, DXF, and PICT.(Mac OS X)
• DraftSight Professional — an ARES-based native DWG 2D CAD system by industry giant, Dassault Systèmes. In terms of CAD usage, DraftSight has one of the largest user-bases in the world, with over 2 million downloads and counting. It comes with its own API and Dassault has largely used this platform to thwart Autodesk’s dominance in the CAD market.
• DraftSigth Enterprise — this version is just like the version above but for large organizations, NGOs, governments, who want full DWG native 2D CAD but with network licensing and built-in technical support plans.
• Cobalt — the premier parametric 3D modeling and CAD program from Ashlar Vellum. This application includes 2D and 3D production drafting along with advanced parametric modeling with geometric dimensioning and tolerancing. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• CorelCAD — an ARES-based DWG-native 2/3D CAD program that has unique ties to CorelDraw useful to manufacturers with extensive CAD and technical illustration workflows. (Mac OX and Windows)
• FreeCAD — FreeCAD is a parametric 3D modeler made primarily to design real-life objects of any size. FreeCAD is open-source and highly customizable, scriptable and extensible. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• Graphite — When you want 2D and 3D CAD software that’s easy to use, yet absolutely precise, that’s Graphite. Formerly known as Vellum®, Graphite offers extremely powerful, precision wire-frame drafting with the elegant ease-of-use that makes it productive even when only used occasionally.
• HighDesign — award-winning 2D CAD program originally made exclusively for Mac OS X, it ships in LT and Pro versions. The Windows version is currently in Beta.
• iCADMac — made by the same folks behind progeCAD, this is a full CAD alternative to AutoCAD that is DWG native and supports a user-friendly 2D/3D CAD system native to macOS. It is highly customizable and very affordable. progeCAD is one of the several high-quality AutoCAD clone CAD companies and this is their Mac version.
• LibreCAD —  free Open Source CAD application. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• MacDraft — UK-based native Mac OS X CAD program comes in both Professional and PE (Personal Learning) editions, while Professional can open and edit AutoCAD DWG files. (Mac OS X)
• SharkCAD — SharkCAD is a comprehensive 2D/3D CAD program that ships an entry and pro versions. It features KeyShot Live Linking and advanced NURBS surface modeling. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• TurboCAD Mac Designer — IMSI/Design’s entry-level 2D drafting CAD program is a well-regarded stable in the Mac CAD community aimed at the prosumer market. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Deluxe 2D/3D — IMSI/Design’s mid-level CAD package for Mac features ACIS modeling tools along with strong 2D drafting CAD features, including support for 3D printing and both AEC and MCAD tools. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Pro — is IMSI/Design’s professional mid-level 2D/3D CAD package and includes both ACIS modeling, AutoCAD DWG compatibility and powerful rendering tools along with 3D printing support. (Mac OS X)
• Vectorworks Designer — The complete package of all vertical industry series solutions of the Vectorworks product line. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Fundamentals — the entry-level version of the Vectorworks product line, focused on general CAD and modeling needs across various industries. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ViaCAD — like SharkCAD made by PunchCAD and aimed at the prosumer or consumer CAD market, ViaCAD ships in 2D, 2D/3D versions and ViaCAD Pro. Taken together the PunchCAD product line ranges in price from $40USD – $1895USD. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Xenon — this is a full-featured 3D modeling and production drafting (2D/3D) application by Ashlar-Vellum similar to Cobalt but without parametric modeling. It has associative 3D modeling instead which is not as powerful. This is Ashlar Vellum’s mid-range product. (Mac OS X and Windows)

Growing This List

Have we missed any software packages? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

List Update Log

15 Dec 2017 — Page last updated on.

25 Nov 2017 — Creation Date

The post INDEX 02: CAD: Multi-disciplinary appeared first on Architosh.

We spotlight three of those apps below. Two of these are dominating forces in the entire AEC community while we focus on another promising software company that aims to be delivering a unique position within the overall AEC BIM market. (Note. We have a BIM-specific apps list in the making here. Much more to come as we develop it further).

Mac CAD AEC Industry Notable Apps

The first AEC industry CAD app of note is GRAPHISOFT’s ARCHICAD, the original first BIM application. In the beginning, prior to the term BIM (Building Information Modeling) the Hungarian company called it Virtual Building software. Today ARCHICAD is arguably the technology and innovation leader in the AEC industry. It has the fastest BIM platform and scales exceptionally well. It is also multi-threaded at the highest level in the industry. Unlike Autodesk’s Revit, which benefits from high-frequency single-core processing, ARCHICAD (aka AC) goes into turbo mode on 6-8 core computers.

01 – ARCHICAD features a uniquely direct connection to GRASSHOPPER

02 – Vectorworks 2018 has added powerful new SubD modeling features.

03 – BricsCAD BIM 2018 is growing rapidly in features and supports IFC.

The second AEC industry app of note is Vectorworks. Like ARCHICAD, this tool is part of the German software holding company, named Nemetschek Group, so the first two apps of note are sister apps from sister companies. Vectorworks Architect is a full-fledged BIM application, and Vectorworks Landmark is a top-tier CAD/BIM for landscape architects and related professionals. Vectorworks, being a more general app, is the Mac CAD market share leader, with robust users bases in Germany, Switzerland, Japan and the United States, among its key core markets.

Finally, we want to note BricsCAD BIM from Belgium, an emerging Mac, Windows and Linux CAD/BIM application that is DWG native. This means it feels comfortable for AutoCAD users. It features increasingly SketchUp-like modeling tools, is IFC compliant at base levels and is establishing itself within European markets.

A Word About BIM

Not everyone needs a BIM-capable CAD package for AEC. In the list below the reader will find many mid-level to top-tier CAD packages for AEC at both the 2D and 3D level. Standouts include AutoCAD, ARES Commander, Chief Architect, HighDesign, and others.

INDEX 02: A complete listing of Mac AEC CAD/BIM Apps

There are exactly 20 AEC CAD apps listed below and nearly all of these are major solutions with strong user bases.

• ARCHICAD — offers computer-aided solutions for handling all common aspects of aesthetics and engineering during the whole design process of the built environment — buildings, interiors and urban areas. ARCHICAD is a BIM industry innovation leader and one of the top global BIM packages around the world. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• ArchiFacile — free floor or house planner software which allows you to design them in two dimensional. This tool is very beneficial for architects as it allows to export design in PDF format. It can be used to plan floor, house, garage, wooden house, a garden shed or pool. (web-based)
• ARES Commander — powerful CAD software for day-to-day work as well as complex projects. Leverage the productive tools and intelligent features for drafting and design that you’ve come to expect from top CAD products plus some exclusive productivity features, at a significant cost-savings. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• AutoCAD LT for Mac — the fully macOS native version of AutoCAD LT offers near feature parity with its Windows version and delivers it in a superior user-interface than its Windows version, taking advantage of unique Apple Mac user-interface features and integration, like support for the Apple Touch Bar on the MacBook Pro. (Mac OS X)
• AutoCAD for Mac — this is the complete professional CAD package for AutoCAD on the macOS platform and has all the features of LT above plus a whole lot more in the form of 3D. (Mac OS X)
• BricsCAD — offers all the familiar .dwg 2D CAD features, yet it adds time-saving tools and 3D Direct Modeling. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• BricsCAD BIM — a powerful full-featured and native DWG file 2D/3D CAD and BIM system that features direct-modeling, IFC support and more. (Mac OS X, Windows, and Linux)
• Chief Architect — The industry leader for residential architectural home design software. This program is easy to use for the building professional.
• DomusCAD Pro — You can immediately begin to create three-dimensional elements without needing to start from a two-dimensional plan. Elements such as walls, floors, roofs, and stairs are created from the onset in their full three-dimensional form. Watch the 3D model change in real time as you design in plan. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• DomusTerra — land modeling CAD program for architecture from the same folks behind DomusCAD Pro.  (Mac OS X and Windows)
• HighDesign — award-winning 2D CAD program originally made exclusively for Mac OS X, it ships in LT and Pro versions. The Windows version is currently in Beta.
• MacDraft — UK-based native Mac OS X CAD program comes in both Professional and PE (Personal Learning) editions, while Professional can open and edit AutoCAD DWG files. (Mac OS X)
• PowerCADD — You want drawings that look like those you’ve always done by hand — or better. Exquisitely detailed. Perfect arrows. Crisp lines. Or maybe even a squiggly sketch. You don’t want it to look like it was done on a computer. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Deluxe 2D/3D — IMSI/Design’s mid-level CAD package for Mac features ACIS modeling tools along with strong 2D drafting CAD features, including support for 3D printing and both AEC and MCAD tools. (Mac OS X)
• TurboCAD Mac Pro — is IMSI/Design’s professional mid-level 2D/3D CAD package and includes both ACIS modeling, AutoCAD DWG compatibility and powerful rendering tools along with 3D printing support. (Mac OS X)
• Vectorworks Architect — a full BIM and CAD application oriented at the professional architectural market used for modeling, BIM, and drafting documentation. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Designer — The complete package of all vertical industry series solutions of the Vectorworks product line. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Fundamentals — the entry-level version of the Vectorworks product line, focused on general CAD and modeling needs across various industries. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Landmark — a full BIM and CAD application for landscape architects, urban designers, and other landscape designers. (Mac OS X and Windows)
• Vectorworks Spotlight — an industry-leading application for the design of entertainment venues and performance spaces with simulated lighting, rigging, and documentation tools. (Mac OS X and Windows)

Growing This List

Have we missed a key software package? If you think so please email us at info@architosh.com and tell us about it. We will be sure to add it to the list at the next update AND we will give you a complimentary annual subscription to Architosh INSIDER premium membership.

series index page: Mac App Guides for CAD/CAM/3D/AEC industries.

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the dates below.

Listing of Updates by Date

01 Dec 2017 — Creation Date

The post INDEX 02: CAD: AEC (Architecture, Engineering, Construction) appeared first on Architosh.

Introduction

Just like our Ultimate Guides series on iPad Apps for Architects—which is scheduled to be substantially updated in soon—this Ultimate List is focused on providing value to those in search of, researching on, testing, demoing, and implementing Mac CAD/CAM software into various industry software workflows or pipelines. High-value to readers is found herein:

1. Alphabetical-based Lists — complete listings in “alphabetical order” to aid search.
2. Industry-centric Lists — designed to aid research, demonstrate comprehensiveness or lack-thereof.
3. Industry-Leading Workflows — designed to provide details about apps that commonly work together, including extensive “add-on” third-party apps that power major CAD platforms.
4. “Must-Have” Top Apps Lists and Articles — break-down articles that discuss the apps that all users must have in particular industry workflows.
5. Software Portfolio Spec Sheets — a new type of post that provides comprehensive history, details, performance, and interoperability specifications on a specific app.

These five (5) major components will constitute the ultimate information resource for Mac CAD/CAM applications across all types of industries and specialties.

The Indices (WIP Release 1)

The complete Ultimate List of CAD Applications for the Apple Mac Platform will be indexed entirely from this master index page and it is a work in progress (WIP).

This page will be updated periodically. (grey items are forthcoming…)

INDEX 01:  A complete “alphabetical-ordered” listing of Mac CAD Apps

• All Mac CAD/CAM Apps

INDEX 02:  Industry-centric Listing of Mac CAD Apps

• CAD: Multi-disciplinary
• CAD: AEC (Architecture, Engineering & Construction)
• CAD: MCAD (Mechanical Computer-Aided Design)
• CAM: Multi-disciplinary – (coming…)
• FEA and Engineering Analysis 
• BIM (Building Information Modeling)

INDEX 03:  Industry-leading Workflows

• ARES Commander Workflows and Add-On
• AutoCAD Workflows and Add-Ons
• ARCHICAD Workflows and Add-Ons
• Bricscad Workflows and Add-Ons
• Dassault Draftsight Workflows and Add-Ons
• Vectorworks Workflows and Add-Ons
• BIM/CAD File Formats per App: A Complete Guide

INDEX 04:  “Must-have” top apps lists—a shortcut the best and brightest of the tools

• 5 Best Native Mac CAD Apps
• 12 Must-Have Apps for Mac Architects

INDEX 05:  A listing of Software Portfolio Spec Sheets

• Spec-Sheet:  ArchiCAD
• Spec-Sheet:  AutoCAD for Mac

Growing This List

We will be growing this Ultimate List addressing CAD applications for the Apple Mac platform. If you have any ideas about this list please drop us a note at info@architosh.com

main App Guides page: Architosh App Guides Home Page. 

Architosh will be reviewing and updating all our App Lists on a regular basis. See the List Update Log below for more info.

List Update Log

(latest release dated up top)

11 Dec 2017 — Creation date.

The post Ultimate List of CAD Applications for the Apple Mac Platform appeared first on Architosh.