Greetings...My apologies up front, if this post is in the wrong section.I'm completely new to cad, with no formal knowledge. I recently acquired a patent, and need cad profiles and measurements, so that mass production estimates can be generated of my product. I will also be expanding on the current design, as well as designing future products and will need animation. I would like to stay under $1500.00., but I'm not familiar with cad programs.Thanks in advance.

With that kind of budget you are looking at an AutoCAD clone.  I would suggest Bricscad.  There are different versions so check them out first before making a final decision.  In my opinion, even though one can buy AutoCAD LT 2015 for then than what you have budgeted I would not recommend it in this situation.

I, too, would recommend Bricscad, having tried other AutoCAD “clones”.Vast similarities such that you can use most AutoCAD learning tools & apply them to BCad.If some day you need to move to an AutoCAD product, migration will be nearly seamless.Cost is much less than AutoCAD LT.If interested:CAD guru Ralph Grabowski’s “BricsCAD V15 for AutoCAD Users” free DL here: https://www.bricsys.com/common/news.jsp?item=1202Note: Being new to CAD, I would recommend creating your designs in 2D, and passing off any modeling / animation work to professionals, unless you are very committed and can dedicate a lot of time to learn.

I currently don't have a cad program. I had to list one in order to register, and turbocad pro 21 was the first program I researched. But I started finding more, which at that point I became overwhelmed. I appreciate the input.

Being new to CAD proggies, might I suggest you DL and trial the free Draftsight, to begin learning the intricacies of CAD software.It is similar enough to other programs of this type, so you can get a head start while deciding on what program to spend your money.

Draftsight is strictly 2D and it is totally free.  So is the Getting Started guide.  Find it at the Dassault Systemes website makers of SolidWorks.

[QUOTE=Robert_D] Being new to CAD proggies, might I suggest you DL and trial the free Draftsight, to begin learning the intricacies of CAD software.It is similar enough to other programs of this type, so you can get a head start while deciding on what program to spend your money.[/QUOTE] Sure, can you point me in that direction? Where don't find it? Thanks again.

http://www.3ds.com/products-services/draftsight-cad-software/free-download/