After more than 20 years of continuous development, the FreeCAD community has announced the release of version 1.0. The popular open source CAD software is now available for all platforms and comes with numerous new features and improvements. With this version, FreeCAD reaches a new level of stability and fulfills essential requirements for professional use.
Version 1.0 addresses two key challenges. The topological naming problem and the introduction of a native assembly module. The topological naming problem, long a weak point of the software, has been solved by Realthunder’s algorithm. This system significantly improves the stability of parametric models by making them resistant to changes in topology. The new assembly module integrates the Ondsel solver and enables the precise assembly of complex components.
FreeCAD has comprehensively modernized the user interface. New features include rotation center indicators, improved filter options for selections and new themes in dark and light mode. The software now offers an optimized start page, which speeds up operation, as well as universal measuring tools and a revised task panel view.
The individual workbenches have also received numerous updates. The developers of FreeCAD have added BIM functionalities to the Arch Workbench, renamed the Path Workbench to CAM and optimized it for more precise production. The Sketcher includes new tools such as an offset function and context-sensitive dimensioning tools, while the Part Workbench offers improvements to the mirror and scale tools. The TechDraw section adds useful features such as snap functions and new drawing tools.
The FreeCAD community also chose a new logo that modernizes the visual identity of the software. With revised Python APIs, improved material management and a host of additional features, FreeCAD 1.0 is aimed at both new and experienced users.
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