We’ve learned that AnarkikAngels has just released a new release of their easy-to-use haptic 3D modelling software, Cloud9 v2.1 – but this one has no time limits. As far as we can tell, this means it’s free for use. According to Ann Marie Shillito of AnarkikAngels:
Up to now we have limited the license for Cloud9 to 1 year to encourage purchasers to update their software (an update being free) with the next level of functions. For applied artists, artists, designer makers and concept designing, with Cloud9 V2.1 we feel that we have now achieved a good balance between usability, features and functions, ease of learning, and a NON COMPLEX interface that makes fluid creation of objects and mastering the software fun to do. Objects created can be directly 3D printed using .stl which can also be used to import objects and forms to packages such as Rhino where there are next level functions for further development.
So with no time limit on the license now, current owners and new purchasers of the software (bundled with the necessary Falcon haptic 3D device from Novint – to replace the 2D mouse) know they can get on and use this version forever with no pressure for further outlay nor the hassle of getting to grips with new functions/interface until they want and are ready to.
But there is a catch: this software provides the amazing ability to perform 3D modelling while actually “feeling” what you are shaping by means of haptic feedback. How do you receive this feedback? Well, you must use a special Falcon haptic device. If you were to purchase one of these devices for £500 from A1-Technologies, you’d get the new version of Cloud9 bundled with it.
What’s in the new version of Cloud9? According to Ann Marie:
- Submesh – Increase the number of triangles in an object’s mesh for better resolution: all triangles or selected areas
- Reduce mesh – Decrease the number of triangles in an object’s mesh: all triangles or just selected areas
- Slice an object/objects with a slice plane
- Create video clips and the individual frames
- Boolean improvement
- Fixed many small bugs
- Full manual
Via AnarkikAngels and A1-Technologies
PS. the art work illustrated is a model by Fergus Ray Murray. Worth seeing his website for another model he's working on – http://oolong.co.uk/zoo/cloud9
For clarity, this update/release of Cloud9(V2.1) from Anarkik3D is free to customers who have already purchased a license. And yes, it only runs with the Falcon haptic device. A1 Technology import the device from the US and bundle it with Cloud9.
Anarkik3D set up anarkikangels to develop Cloud9 to support software development. The small group of alpha adoptors, mostly professional designers and artists, continues to give us the necessary feedback to keep the product as usable and as inclusive as possible. Thanks, people, appreciate your support hugely as it is quite a balancing act.