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Finding ways to speed up your CAD (Fusion 360) workflow can save(keyboard shortcut CMD/CTRL+S) Saves the file that is currently open. loads of time. First, you should understand that it simply takes time to become more proficient. The more you use Fusion 360, the faster you’ll find workflows that become more efficient for your desired use.
Second, you should learn the default Fusion 360 keyboard shortcuts. Not having to move your hand from the keyboard to the mouse. Once you’re familiar with the default Fusion 360 keyboard shortcuts I recommend creating your own custom shortcuts for the most used features of your workflow.
The last thing I always recommend to speed up your 3D modeling workflow is to implement some new “tools.” Below are 5 of my favorite tools that I consistently use when 3D modeling in Fusion 360.
1. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700028 SpaceNavigator 3D Mouse
I was first introduced to the idea of a “3D mouse” by a friend of mine. I have to admit, I was skeptical at first, but after testing it out I got hooked. If you’re serious about 3D modeling, or you spend at least 5+ hours 3D modeling a week, then you’ll definitely want one of these bad boys. The 3Dconnection 3D Mouse was built specifically for CAD users.
It allows you to simultaneously panShifts the view without changing the viewing direction or magnification., zoomZooms in and out as the mouse is moved from left to right., and rotate 3D models at the time same time! Whether you’re brand new to Fusion 360, or you’re an experienced user, you’ll wonder why you didn’t have this mouse years ago. Gone are the days of fidgeting with a standard mouse scroll wheel. On top of that, you can also program 2 buttons for a specific key/function, allowing you to take it to another level and really customize it based on your workflow.
2. 3Dconnexion 3DX-700040 SpaceMouse Pro 3D Mouse
The 3Dconnexion mouse above is perfect for those just getting started in CAD and works great as a “left-hand” mouse that you use in conjunction with your regular mouse. On the other hand, this mouse is set to replace your mouse if you’re a serious CAD user who is 3D modeling for 8 hours a day.
This mouse has a whopping 15 keys that are programmable. This means you can customize your workflow on a whole other level, quickly calling the features you use most. This mouse also includes the Keyboard Modifiers (Ctrl, Alt, Shift, Esc), which make it super quick to take full control of your sketches in Fusion 360.
3. Samsung U28E590D 28-Inch 4k UHD LED-Lit Monitor
If you’ve tried 3D-modeling on a laptop then it’s extremely likely you know how frustrating it can be. It seems like your always needing another inch of screen real estate. Many CAD users also complain about screen real estate having only one desktop monitor!
This Samsung 4K monitor is my favorite external monitor to hook up to my computer when using Fusion 360. It offers the biggest bang for your buck, boasting a 28″ 4K screen. Now it may not seem important to have 4K while 3D modeling… but when it comes to rendering in Fusion 360, a 4K screen can make all the difference.
4. Neiko 01407A Electronic Stainless Steel Digital Caliper
If you’re like me and you like to reverse-engineer everyday household products, then this stainless steel caliper is essential for your workflow! Gone are the days of holding up a tape measure(keyboard shortcut “I”) Reports distance, angle, area, or position data of the selected object. Select a vertex, edge, face, body, or component. and “guestimating” the product dimensions. Treat yourself to one of these (it’s under $20 bucks) and you’ll never regret it.
I’ve used a handful of digital calipers over the years, and somehow this extremely affordable Neiko brand one has always performed the best. Don’t worry if you’ve never used a caliper before. It’s an easy skill to acquire and this Neiko product comes with detailed instructions on how to properly use a digital caliper.
5. Blue Light Blocking Computer Glasses
Similar to the 3D Mouse, I was first skeptical about this product until I gave it a try! On average I sit at my computer for 8-10 hours a day. I used to have trouble falling asleep at night because of the blue light from the computer monitor. I saw a significant difference on the first day of using these Blue Light Blocking Computer Glasses.
If you’re not familiar or you’ve never heard of Blue Light Blocking Glasses, let me explain. Researchers recently started to figure out more negative side effects caused by the blue light from LCD screens. You guessed it, these glasses block that blue light so you can continue to use your computer as you’d like, taking fewer breaks for irritated eyes. If you have a sleeping disorder, eyestrain, get headaches, or have dry, itchy or irritated eyes then you seriously need to try out these affordable glasses.
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