A 3D modelling program for creating virtual LEGO models which can order pieces online directly from LEGO headquarters.
LeoCAD is a free and open source virtual model builder app and 3D editor developed by BT Software for Windows, it's well-designed, customizable and powerful.
It is capable of connecting to online services such as Facebook and YouTube.
The download has been tested by an editor here on a PC and a list of features has been compiled; see below. We've also created some screenshots of LeoCAD to illustrate the user interface and show the overall usage and features of this virtual model building program.
A 3D modelling program for creating virtual LEGO models
LeoCAD currently has a library of more than 1000 different unique pieces (but they don't represent any particular brand), most of them created by James Jessiman (the author of LDraw).
LeoCAD is a CAD program that allows people to build virtual models using bricks similar to those found in LEGO toys. LeoCAD can be used to create building instructions and animations, making it a very powerful editor.
Each object in a LeoCAD project can have a different position and orientation for each step or frame that it appears. This feature is called keyframing, and works differently if the program is in Instruction or Animation mode.
This is very useful when creating instructions because it allows you to have a door open in one step and closed later, or have the camera display the model from a different angle on a certain step to show details from another section of the model.
Features of LeoCAD
- Animation: Animate your models with custom actions and camera movements.
- Brick Separator: Automatically separate parts into individual elements.
- Camera: Select from different camera angles or create custom views.
- Drag and Drop: Easily build models using intuitive drag and drop interface.
- Grouping: Organize complex builds with grouping and locking tools.
- Lighting: Adjust the lighting for realistic renders or special effects.
- Measurement: Measure distances between parts or the size of an element.
- Model Sharing: Export models as LDraw files to share with the community.
- Parts Library: Over 3000 pieces to choose from, including Technic and Mindstorms parts.
- Primitives: Create basic shapes with simple tools.
- Rendering: Create stunning renders of your models with realistic lighting and materials.
- Snap Tool: Snap parts together with precision.
- Undo/Redo: Quickly undo mistakes or redo changes with ease.
- Zooming: Easily zoom in and out of models to get the perfect view.
Compatibility and License
LeoCAD is available for free and released under the open source GPLv2 license on Windows from 3D design. The license provides the options to freely download, install, run and share this program without any restrictions. The source code for LeoCAD should be freely available and modifications are certainly permitted as well as the option to inspect the software.
What version of Windows can LeoCAD run on?
LeoCAD can be used on a computer running Windows 11 or Windows 10. Previous versions of the OS shouldn't be a problem with Windows 8 and Windows 7 having been tested. It runs on both 32-bit and 64-bit systems with no dedicated 64-bit download provided.
Filed under:
- LeoCAD Download
- Free 3D Design
- Open source and GPL software
- Virtual Model Building Software
