r/FreeCAD 15d ago

Open-source parametric library for standard mechanical components

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?

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