This is the place to be if you love or want to learn more about computer graphics, solid modeling, 3D geometry, CAx (CAD/CAM/CAE/etc), 3D printing, ray tracing, high-performance computing, and more.

BRL-CAD is participating in GSoC as an umbrella organization with several other open source computer-aided technology (CAx) communities including LibreCAD, OpenSCAD, STEPcode, LinuxCNC, and FreeCAD:

• BRL-CAD is a solid modeling system for 3D geometry, ray tracing, and geometric analysis.
• LibreCAD is a 2D modeling system specializing in blueprint-style drawings and draftings.
• STEPcode is a geometry file parser generator for the CAx data exchange ISO standard.
• OpenSCAD is a solid 3D modeler with a rich syntax for programmable geometry.
• LinuxCNC provides computer control of milling machines, lathes, 3d printers, robots, and more.
• FreeCAD provides parametric 3D modeling with engineering functionality like FEM and CAM.

We are represented and developed by an association of individuals in the larger open source CAx community from academia, government, and private industry. CAx software is fundamentally different from content modeling software such as Blender, Maya, and 3D Studio used for animation, gaming, and film. CAx software is in a separate industry where commercial products like AutoCAD, Pro/Engineer, and CATIA dominate. Our primary development focus areas include:

• CAD (design),
• CAM (manufacturing),
• CAE (engineering),
• solid modeling (analysis), and
• computer graphics (visualization).