What Is Fusion 360?
Fusion 360 is a design and modeling tool that allows us to turn 2D sketches into 3D objects. It’s the program we’ll use to create our designs and then print them in 3D.
From 2D to 3D
🎨 In Fusion 360, we start with 2D sketches (like lines, circles, and shapes) and then use tools such as Extrude or Cut to give our sketches volume and depth, creating 3D objects.
👉 Imagine you want to design a key. You begin with a 2D outline, which you then transform into a 3D body using the Extrude function. Afterward, you can add details like angles and curves using additional tools.
This way, your ideas take shape step by step.
File Types We Use
📁 In Fusion 360, we can save and share our designs in various file formats, depending on the purpose. The most important file types are:
- STL: Used for 3D printing. This is the file we give to the printer to understand what we want to create.
- OBJ: Similar to STL but often used for objects with more details and colors.
- F3D: The native Fusion 360 file that contains all the information about the design (dimensions, commands, and connections).
- STEP: Used to share files with colleagues or collaborators who work with different CAD programs.
How Does Fusion 360 Work?
Fusion 360 is built on cloud-based technology, which means all our files are stored online. This provides several advantages:
- Automatic saving: No need to worry about losing your work.
- File sharing: Easily share designs with others by granting them cloud access.
- Access from anywhere: Work on your designs from multiple computers.
Why Fusion 360?
Fusion 360 is more than just a beginner-friendly tool. It’s also a program used by professionals in leading companies. This means:
- You can start with the basics and move on to more complex projects.
- Knowing how to use Fusion 360 gives you a powerful professional tool that can boost your career.
Closing Thoughts
Even if you’ve never used any design software before, Fusion 360 is the perfect place to start. Together, we’ll see how simple and fun it can be to bring your ideas to life!
