Robert McNeel provides the world’s most versatile 3D modeler and the latest release is finally here! Rhino 6 for Windows is now available. It’s been 5 years in the making, but this update to the popular NURBS based 3D modeling software has been worth the wait. Commonly used for CAM, CAD, 3D printing, rapid prototyping, and reverse engineering, Rhino is used in a variety of industries. From jewelry design to industrial design, this software allows users to quickly develop designs and communicate ideas. In this short article, we will review some of the improvements with this release.

Before we get too far into the details of this new release. It is important to note that not all plugins will work with Rhino 6. If you are using a plugin, it is recommended that you contact the plugin manufacturer to confirm its compatibility prior to upgrading. If it turns out your plugin is not compatible, do not to worry as Rhino 5 will continue to be available for purchase. For Mac users, Rhino 5 is the current offering. At this time, we do not have information on a release date for Rhino 6 for Mac.

Features of Rhino 6

One of the most exciting features is the addition of Grasshopper to Rhino. This popular visual program is now a stable development environment and it is completely included within Rhino. Grasshopper itself has become a robust development platform and has been used in some of the most ambitious design projects in recent years. Grasshopper installs directly with Rhino 6 for Windows and serves as a foundation for many third-party components ranging from robotic control to environmental analysis. Grasshopper in Rhino 6 for Windows is compatible with new and existing components. The interactive dynamic relaxation solver/physics engine, Kangaroo, and GhPhython are also included in the new release.

Make2D has been completely overhauled to allow improved, faster, and more customizable results. Features that help you with all phases of the design process have been enhanced. Presentation, display, and documentation features have all been enhanced. Improvements make it quicker and faster to present, discuss, make decisions and iterations of your designs. The display pipeline is more stable and faster with great features like memory optimizations and GPU sensitive shaders. The documentation workflow has been improved to help you accurately explain the how and what of your designs.

As you would expect, hundreds of minor bugs have been corrected and many features consolidated to improve your experience. The installation, licensing, and configuration processes are greatly improved. Now, you can make your licenses available anywhere via a login with the new Cloud Zoo. Single-computer and Zoo licensing options are also available.

Overall, this new release proves Rhino is not just a modeler.  If you want to push the envelope of design, Rhino is quickly becoming the development platform to help you do it.

Academic Discounts on Robert McNeel

Students and educational institutions can take advantage of special Robert McNeel discounts online at Studica. Rhino 6 for Windows, Rhino 5 for Mac, Bundles, Lab Kits, as well as rendering & animation plug-ins are available. If you are interested in classroom solutions, contact us for more information. Studica offers a variety of software and technology products at significant savings for students, teachers, and schools.