The open source CAD software FreeCAD offers a wide range of functions for design and technical drawings. However, the user interface and some tools are often considered cumbersome. This is where AstoCAD comes in – a further developed version of FreeCAD with an optimized user interface and additional functions.
AstoCAD is not a complete fork of FreeCAD, but is based directly on its latest version. The aim is to offer a more user-friendly alternative with extended functions, while the improvements will also flow into FreeCAD in the long term. AstoCAD gives users early access to new functions, while the FreeCAD project continues to benefit.
The development roadmap plans to address known weaknesses in areas such as Sketcher, Assembly and PartDesign. Planned improvements include an optimized polyline function, new tools for assemblies and a clearer user interface in TechDraw and FEM. Numerous changes have already been implemented, including revised navigation, improved tree structure management and new dimensioning tools.
AstoCAD is financed via a subscription model, which is intended to cover ongoing development costs. For four euros per month, users receive access to the improved version, while a premium membership for twelve euros per month offers additional benefits. The aim is to ensure sustainable financing and at the same time incorporate the innovations into FreeCAD. In the long term, AstoCAD could help to make FreeCAD more competitive as an open source alternative to commercial CAD programs.
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