neka-nat/freecad-mcp

What it solves

This project provides a bridge between Claude Desktop and FreeCAD, allowing users to control the 3D modeling software via an AI assistant. It eliminates the need for manual 3D design work by enabling an LLM to create, edit, and analyze parts directly within the FreeCAD environment.

How it works

It implements the Model Context Protocol (MCP), using an RPC server that runs as a FreeCAD addon. The AI assistant (Claude) communicates with this server to execute commands. The system supports:

• Direct Control: The AI can create, edit, or delete objects and execute arbitrary Python code within FreeCAD.
• Visual Feedback: The tool can return screenshots of the active view (Isometric, Front, Top, etc.) to the AI, allowing it to "see" the design progress.
• Remote Access: The RPC server can be configured to allow connections from other machines on the same network.
• FEM Analysis: It includes specialized tools to run CalculiX solvers for finite element method (FEM) analysis and return summary results.

Who it’s for

Mechanical engineers, 3D designers, and hobbyists who want to use AI to automate 3D CAD design and simulation analysis.

Highlights

• AI-Driven Design: Capable of designing complex parts like flanges or toy cars from text descriptions or 2D drawings.
• Integrated FEM: Ability to run structural analysis (von Mises stress, displacement) directly through the AI.
• Visual Loop: Supports returning screenshots to the AI for iterative design refinement.
• Cross-Platform: Compatible with Windows, macOS, and Linux.
• Library Integration: Can insert parts from the official FreeCAD parts library.