Direct modeling in CAD

Direct modeling in CAD-
:Free editing without a history

Direct modeling in CAD (also known as direct editing or non-history-based modeling) is one of the three modern modeling approaches in 3D CAD. Here, you can modify geometry directly on surfaces and volumes—drag, rotate, or move—without having to go back in the history tree or deal with constraints. IRONCAD three methods into a single system: flexible modeling, parametric modeling, and direct modeling.

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Over 1000+ satisfied customers

A yellow drilling rig with a tall vertical arm and a tracked base on a simulated ground surface.

The image depicts a drilling rig designed in IRONCAD Ornunga Maskin & Teknik AB.

A computer monitor displaying a 3D CAD software interface with a mechanical assembly featuring gears and orange components.

Sawmill machine designed in IRONCAD by Höga Kusten Teknikresurs AB

What is IRONCAD?

IRONCAD an intuitive and flexible 3D CAD program (with support for 2D drawings) that lets you design mechanical products in a natural and fast way—using drag-and-drop, push/pull tools, and TriBall instead of complicated constraints.

It’s one of the easiest CAD programs to get started with—you’ll learn quickly and can focus on design instead of complicated tools.

Read more about IRONCAD

Workflows in IRONCAD

Three modeling methods – the best of all three worlds

IRONCAD is unique because it doesn’t force you to choose a single modeling type.
You have all three methods at your disposal and can switch between them or
combine them however you like—all within the same file.

3D box in vector format with a red X

Parametric modeling

Best suited for models that require a predetermined approach to dimensional variations. Uses constraints and assembly conditions. Powerful when appropriate.

MOST POPULAR

3D box in vector format with a green check mark

Flexible modeling

The fastest and most productive method. It uniquely combines intelligent models with flexibility in a way that no other 3D CAD system can offer. Total freedom and precision at the same time.

3D box vector with an open lock

Direct editing

Modify imported geometry directly. Select a surface and drag, rotate, or move it—regardless of its history. Entire assemblies can be imported and customized directly.

The genius of it? You can combine all three in a single file. Start with flexible modeling,
add parametric relationships where needed, and use direct modeling on imported parts.
Everything flows together seamlessly—no other CAD program makes it this easy.

Why direct modeling is good, and why flexible modeling is even better

Many people who search for “direct modeling CAD” want to avoid the common problems associated with traditional parametric CAD: locked models, over-constraint errors, and time-consuming redesigns when changes are made.

Direct modeling solves much of that. But in IRONCAD , flexible modeling IRONCAD it a step further:

  • Faster iterations – test ideas in minutes instead of hours.
  • Easy handling of imported files with direct modeling.
  • Optional parameters – use them only when you want variant control.
  • No restrictions that slow down the work.

What do some of our customers say?

"NEFAB has over 300 IRONCAD users spread all over the world. IRONCAD solves our various design needs that no other 3D system can do."

Urban Olars
CAD responsible
Read more about NEFAB

"As a design tool we use IRONCAD and as a PDM solution we use DDM. We are very happy with both solutions."

Jan Wikar
Senior Interior Designer
Read more about Baltic Yacht

"We switched to IRONCAD and have not regretted it for a second. With IRONCAD we can modify our designs quickly. IRONCAD definitely saves us time and money."

Daniel Erlandsson
CEO/Sales
Read more about Lerocon

Our CAD training courses

To help you get the most out of your CAD tools, we at Solidmakarna a wide range of training courses.

Basic Courses in IRONCAD

Learn the basics of modeling, drafting, and documentation.

Learn more about our introductory courses

Further training in IRONCAD

Learn the basics of modeling, drafting, and documentation.

Learn more about our continuing education programs

Self-study courses and webinars

Free options to get started at your own pace.

Learn more about our self-study courses and webinars

Frequently Asked Questions About Direct Modeling

Want to get started with 3D CAD?

Contact us for a personalized demo and see how IRONCAD streamline your work with
3D modeling and design.