Studying 3D modeling and prototyping in pre-professional classes with the help of the T-FLEX CAD program

The article presents the experience of using the Russian computer-aided design program T-FLEX CAD to study 3D modeling and prototyping in pre-professional engineering classes as a course of choice for students. The advantages and limitations of the educational version of T-FLEX CAD are considered, a brief overview of the tasks for which the professional T-FLEX CAD program can be used is given.A practical work for beginners is proposed, in which the creation of a manual citrus juicer is described step by step. At the end of the practical work, tasks for independent work are provided, during which students receive their own simulation result, which can be used to create a prototype of the product.The material will be useful for teachers of informatics and technology working in engineering or information and technology classes, when teaching an advanced course in informatics or a course in 3D modeling and prototyping.