CATIA vs FreeTO

CATIA is a parametric modeling and engineering product with tools for assembly design, sheet-metal work, and surface modeling. It supports cloud collaboration. Platform availability depends on the CATIA product: browser applications run on the 3DEXPERIENCE platform, while CATIA V5 sheet-metal software is available for Windows. File format support also varies by product. STEP import and export are listed, while DXF, STL, VRML, and IGES are supported by other CATIA V5 products. CATIA is paid, with pricing on request. Buyers should match the intended modeling work, collaboration needs, platform, and file exchange requirements to the specific CATIA product. Its web and Windows listings do not mean that every CATIA capability is offered on both platforms.

FreeTO is free, open-source MATLAB software for initializing, optimizing, and post-processing free-form 3D topology optimization problems. It accepts STL files for a design domain and load-carrying subdomains, together with mesh controls and a target volume fraction. A structured hexahedral mesh is used, and optimized structures have smooth boundaries. Inputs can define supports, force magnitudes, up to nine additional load cases, and regions that must remain unchanged. SIMP is the documented default optimization method, and SEMDOT is also supported. Topologies can be mirrored across up to three specified symmetry planes. Results include compliance, volume fraction, density arrays, element counts, optimization histories, visual topology displays, and an optional STL file. Sample problems cover a GE bracket, airplane bracket, human hand model, and quadcopter. The repository uses an MIT license and other open-source codes. Its available optimizer is optimality criteria; the MMA implementation is commented out, with code available by email request.