3D modeling software for all
Meshmixer is a free 3D modeling tool developed by Autodesk that helps designers work with existing 3D models. With this app, users can either make changes or add new layers on top of them. It supports a wide range of 3D file types and allows users to export projects to other formats for use with other 3D editing tools. What’s more, this graphic and design software can be used by anyone—whether for commercial or non-commercial purposes.
What is Meshmixer used for?
When it comes to 3D modeling, one of the first steps is to create what’s called a polygon mesh. This mesh is essentially a collection of vertices, edges, and faces that help define the shape of a 3D object. This is an important step in order to have a visual representation of an idea that you are trying to materialize. It’s a complicated process that requires a lot of editing and manipulation to get right.
Here is where Autodesk’s Meshmixer comes into play. With this 3D design software, you’ll be able to import your projects and edit them easily. It supports various 3D files, including common STL files, OBJ, PLY, and AMF. Once a project has been imported, editing tools are available to help you scale, clean up, and even repair your mesh to ensure no holes or gaps are in the final 3D model.
What’s more, it comes with a Slice feature that allows you to split your mesh into separate pieces. This is quite useful if you’re working with a rather large 3D model. Your completed projects will be exported by default as STL files, but others such as OBJ, PLY, and AMF are available, as well. One thing to be aware of, though, is that the program has not been updated in a while. Long-term support for it is up in the air.
A free and solid choice
As a 3D modeling and CAD software, Meshmixer does its job admirably. The fact that it’s also free makes it more enticing and accessible to just about anyone. It has all the basics covered for most needs, be it for 3D computer graphics development for video games or 3D printing applications. While its long-term support is a bit questionable, it’s still a solid option, and it’s still worth considering.
