Mechanical Design Apps for Android: Top Picks for Engineers

In today’s fast-paced engineering world, having reliable tools at your fingertips is crucial. Mechanical design apps for Android devices have become indispensable for engineers who need to work on-the-go. These apps offer a range of functionalities from sketching designs to performing complex calculations. This article explores some of the best mechanical design apps available on the Android platform, providing insights into their features, usability, and suitability for different engineering needs.

1. AutoCAD Mobile App

AutoCAD Mobile App is one of the most popular mechanical design tools available on Android. Developed by Autodesk, this app allows engineers to view, create, and edit AutoCAD drawings directly on their mobile devices. Key features include:

• Drawing and Editing: The app supports a wide range of drawing and editing tools that allow users to create detailed mechanical designs.
• Cloud Integration: It integrates with Autodesk’s cloud services, making it easy to sync files and collaborate with team members.
• Layer Management: Users can manage layers and adjust visibility settings for more efficient design work.
• Measurement Tools: The app provides tools for precise measurements and scaling, essential for accurate mechanical designs.

AutoCAD Mobile is highly recommended for professionals who need a robust tool for detailed design work and frequent collaboration.

2. SolidWorks Viewer

SolidWorks Viewer is another excellent app for mechanical engineers who use SolidWorks software. While the app itself does not support full editing capabilities, it is a valuable tool for viewing SolidWorks files on the go. Key features include:

• File Viewing: Users can view 3D models and 2D drawings created in SolidWorks.
• Annotations: The app allows users to add annotations and comments on the models.
• File Compatibility: It supports a range of SolidWorks file formats, making it easy to review designs without needing a full CAD system.

This app is ideal for engineers who need to review designs and provide feedback while away from their primary workstation.

3. Engineering Calculator

Engineering Calculator is a versatile tool designed to perform various engineering calculations, which are often crucial in mechanical design. The app includes:

• Unit Conversions: Convert between different units of measurement commonly used in mechanical design.
• Mathematical Functions: Perform calculations involving algebra, trigonometry, and calculus.
• Engineering Formulas: Access a range of pre-defined formulas for mechanical engineering tasks.

This app is perfect for engineers who need quick access to calculation tools without complex software.

4. CAD Touch

CAD Touch is a user-friendly CAD tool for Android devices, offering a simplified approach to mechanical design. Features include:

• Sketching and Drafting: Create and modify 2D drawings with ease.
• Layers and Colors: Use different layers and colors to organize your designs effectively.
• Import and Export: Import and export designs in various formats, including DXF.

CAD Touch is well-suited for engineers who need a straightforward tool for drafting and sketching on the go.

5. Fusion 360

Fusion 360 is another powerful tool by Autodesk, combining CAD, CAM, and CAE capabilities into a single platform. The mobile app version allows users to:

• View Models: Access and view 3D models created in Fusion 360.
• Collaborate: Share models and collaborate with team members remotely.
• Project Management: Keep track of project progress and updates from your mobile device.

Fusion 360 is ideal for engineers who need comprehensive design and manufacturing solutions and prefer to have access to their projects from anywhere.

6. Mechanical Engineering Calculator

Mechanical Engineering Calculator is tailored specifically for mechanical engineers, offering tools and calculators for various mechanical design tasks. Features include:

• Stress and Strain Calculations: Perform calculations related to stress, strain, and material properties.
• Torque and Power Calculations: Calculate torque, power, and other essential mechanical parameters.
• Dimensional Analysis: Analyze dimensions and tolerances for mechanical components.

This app is a valuable resource for engineers who need specialized calculations for their mechanical designs.

7. SketchUp Viewer

SketchUp Viewer allows users to view SketchUp models on Android devices. While it does not offer editing capabilities, it is useful for:

• Model Viewing: Examine 3D models and designs created in SketchUp.
• Presentation: Present models to clients or colleagues in a portable format.
• Navigation: Navigate through models and explore different views.

For engineers who use SketchUp for their design work, this app provides a convenient way to view and share models.

8. Draftworx

Draftworx offers a range of drafting tools suitable for mechanical design tasks. Key features include:

• Drawing Tools: Utilize various drawing tools to create precise mechanical designs.
• Measurement: Measure distances and angles accurately.
• Customizable Interface: Tailor the interface to suit your specific design needs.

Draftworx is ideal for engineers who require a flexible and customizable drafting solution on their mobile devices.

9. MathCad Mobile

MathCad Mobile provides a platform for performing and documenting engineering calculations. Features include:

• Mathematical Computations: Perform complex mathematical calculations with ease.
• Documentation: Document and save calculations in a structured format.
• Graphing: Create and analyze graphs and charts for visual representation of data.

This app is suitable for engineers who need a comprehensive tool for mathematical calculations and documentation.

10. iDesign

iDesign offers a range of CAD features for mechanical design on Android devices. Key functionalities include:

• 2D Drafting: Create detailed 2D mechanical designs with precision.
• Import/Export: Import and export files in various formats.
• Layer Management: Manage different layers within your designs for better organization.

iDesign is a versatile tool for engineers who need a capable CAD application with essential features for mechanical design.

Conclusion

Mechanical design apps for Android provide engineers with powerful tools to perform a wide range of tasks from sketching to complex calculations. Each app offers unique features tailored to different aspects of mechanical design. By selecting the right app based on your needs, you can enhance your productivity and ensure that you have the tools necessary for efficient and accurate design work, even when you’re away from your desk.