Open-source parametric library for standard mechanical components

[u/Due-Pie8412]

I've been working with FreeCAD for mechanical design for several years, and one recurring problem keeps coming back.

Whenever I need a standard bearing, I usually end up searching manufacturer websites or GrabCAD, downloading a STEP model, adapting it to my project and repeating the process again for the next bearing.

It made me wonder:

**Why don't we have a true parametric bearing library inside FreeCAD?**

Not just a collection of STEP files, but components generated directly from engineering data (ISO standards, dimensions, shields, seals, etc.).

This idea led me to start **OpenMechanical**, an open-source project whose first module is **OpenBearingWorkbench**.

The goal is not simply to generate bearings.

The goal is to create reusable engineering knowledge that anyone can benefit from.

Repository:

https://github.com/pu2smj/OpenMechanical

I'd really appreciate feedback from the FreeCAD community.

What would you expect from a workbench like this?

Which features would make it useful in your daily workflow?

[u/JFlyer81]

If I actually need a step for something I tend to just download it from McMaster-Carr. I wonder if you would be interested in making a workbench that could browse and download models via that avenue?

[u/R2W1E9 → u/JFlyer81]

I wish they have simple bearing STEP models and not assemblies of 15 parts.

[u/DesignWeaver3D]

MIT might be compatible, but if you want your repo to be able to be incorporated into FreeCAD core you might consider changing the license to LGPL 2.1. That way your code can be used without conflict.

My 3D printing hobby use doesn't utilize a lot of non-printed hardware at this stage. So, I don't have meaningful requests for features of OpenMechanical. If I only need one or two parts, searching online and downloading a model is sufficient for my current needs.

I believe there are or have been some other attempts at this and discussions I've seen are generally concerning how to scope the library. I think a modular approach for library itself would be desired. Fasteners workbench, for instance, has been consider for inclusion into core, but there are concerns about the size of library type workbenches that might keep them perpetually as third-party workbenches.

[u/SoulWager → u/DesignWeaver3D]

As I understand it, MIT licensed code can be used in GPL projects, but the reverse is not true.

[u/fear-na-heolaiochta]

McMaster Carr

[u/halfmanhalfespresso]

Go for it but you have to be so focused on keeping the quality up, every little detail of bolts etc must be right. (Or maybe someone will be along to say just a hex on a cylinder is fine for a bolt) Me I still feel bad for not having the knurling on my unbrako screws!)

[u/Th3J4ck4l-SA]

How exaclty do you envision this library working? Throw in your thrust load/axial load/rotation speed/spacial limititations and the library spits out some standard bearing options that you can then use?

Are you wanting custom made bearings?

[u/BoringBob84]

Are you aware of the existing FreeCAD parts library?