> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://willadams.gitbook.io/design-into-3d/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://willadams.gitbook.io/design-into-3d/3d-modeling.md).

# 3D Modeling

Since CAD programs were first created, there have been a number of different approaches. The most common ones, and example implementations may be:

* Mechanical modeling --- Alibre Atom 3D, Dune 3D
* Mesh sculpting --- Blender
* NURBS --- Plasticity 3D

This page will consider these three concepts and ways in which they might be used.

Dune 3D is an opensource application:

{% embed url="<https://dune3d.org/>" %}

and is available as an installable download for Windows: <https://github.com/dune3d/dune3d/releases/tag/v1.1.0> and as source code with instructions for building in Mac OS X and Linux.

When first launched, it appears as a small window:

<figure><img src="/files/D6rffm1abuJ0AzMLRgz1" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

with a list of recent files (if applicable) and buttons for creating a new document or opening an existing one, as well as standard window controls and interface elements for other commands such as maximizing:

<figure><img src="/files/iDULu5idb4GR7R2DCulI" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

Creating a new document brings up a window:

<figure><img src="/files/I4JeExzZBvVsJgS8o82W" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

which along with basic commands is discussed at: <https://docs.dune3d.org/en/latest/usage.html>