Designing a Space Rover for Mars: A Rookie's Challenge

[462chevelle]

I have to design a space rover for Mars that has to have quite a few operating gadgets on it.
Without giving a lot of details I am using sketch up and needless to say it sucks. I can't even figure out how to make a wheel. and I can't make objects at angles, like shafts or motors or anything. The vehicle has to have a robotic arm that operates. I would just like to know if anyone has a recommendation for a program I can download to make my rover look a little more professional than it does now. I would post a pic of it but its so terrible I would be embarrassed.
By the way I have absolutely no 3d design experience and that is probably half of my problem. I have till December 20th and I started on it last night.

thanks,
Lonnie

 

[berkeman]

I have to design a space rover for Mars that has to have quite a few operating gadgets on it.
Without giving a lot of details I am using sketch up and needless to say it sucks. I can't even figure out how to make a wheel. and I can't make objects at angles, like shafts or motors or anything. The vehicle has to have a robotic arm that operates. I would just like to know if anyone has a recommendation for a program I can download to make my rover look a little more professional than it does now. I would post a pic of it but its so terrible I would be embarrassed.
By the way I have absolutely no 3d design experience and that is probably half of my problem. I have till December 20th and I started on it last night.

thanks,
Lonnie

What student versions of 3D CAD software do you have available? You should post your efforts so far so that we can offer some suggestions

 

[462chevelle]

Here goes

I know this is horrible, but I don't know what to do about it. My lack of design experience really shows when it comes to computer 3d models. I am using sketch up 3d