FreeDesign Releases FreeDimension Version 1.1

FreeDesign, creators of the 3D surface modeler FreeDimension, today announced the update of its signature software. FreeDimension version 1.1 offers users enhanced output capabilities in its unique free-form modeling interface. The release includes an optional output module, which enables FreeDimension models to be output in a NURBS format for use in downstream CAD applications. FreeDimension itself departs from the usual method of CAD surfacing, which uses NURBS (Non-Uniform Rational B-Splines). FreeDimension instead employs a new flexible technique of curve-creation called "n-sided" surfacing. The NURBS output module, an optional add-on in FreeDimension 1.1, gives users the best of both worlds - free-form design flexibility and the ability to export projects to familiar CAD applications. The module re-calculates FreeDimension's surfaces as NURBS surfaces. The surfaces can then be easily exported to other 3D tools via the common IGES format. "Any CAD system that can handle NURBS and IGES can read our models," says Dick Sowar, FreeDesign CEO. "This is an exciting enhancement that allows FreeDimension models to integrate directly with a 3D designer's workflow." FreeDimension V 1.1 enhances surface output to the popular and easy-to-use SketchUp modeler from Google. Improved surface handling means that surfaces exported into SketchUp will appear the same as in FreeDimension, and hides facets within the surface that were previously displayed in the software. Default orientation, color and transparency selections will also pass correctly into SketchUp and can be amended in SketchUp. The upgrade is free to current licensed users and is included in the FreeDimension 1.1 package. Three new tutorials demonstrate the proper use of the new output modules, and are available from the FreeDesign website.