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A vector logo of IdeaBuilder, a free web-based standalone software to build or design with 8020 t-slot aluminum profiles and products.A vector logo of IdeaBuilder, a free web-based standalone software to build or design with 8020 t-slot aluminum profiles and products.

IdeaBuilder is a free, web-based design tool that makes creating with 80/20 fast and easy for all experience levels. With simple click, drag, and snap functionality, you can quickly design, generate detailed drawings and bills of materials, and pricing—no downloads or additional software required.

A 3D render of a black modular flow cart with casters and roller tracks next to a laptop displaying the same assembly in IdeaBuilder design software.A 3D render of a black modular flow cart with casters and roller tracks next to a laptop displaying the same assembly in IdeaBuilder design software.

How to Order From IdeaBuilder

IdeaBuilder guides you through the full design and build process while automatically generating a complete bill of materials. When your design is ready, export an XML file to order online or work with an authorized distributor. Follow the online order instructions below to learn how to get your file from IdeaBuilder to your cart.

A Web-Based Software for All Experience Levels

A 3D CAD rendering of a modular T-slot aluminum enclosure with a hinged black panel, door handle, and sliding latch within a design configurator workspace.A 3D CAD rendering of a modular T-slot aluminum enclosure with a hinged black panel, door handle, and sliding latch within a design configurator workspace.

Built in Configurators
to Speed Up Design

Accelerate your workflow with intuitive tools like our box, door, and contour creators. Simply select a profile to generate a base structure in seconds, giving you a perfect foundation to start your build.

A 3D CAD rendering showing a vertical T-slot aluminum profile connected to a horizontal black pipe and joint flow rack system with roller tracks.A 3D CAD rendering showing a vertical T-slot aluminum profile connected to a horizontal black pipe and joint flow rack system with roller tracks.

Design with Various
80/20 Product Lines

Maximize your flexibility with a full range of 80/20 components. Whether you’re working with T-slot profiles or modular pipe systems, you can transform static frames into dynamic, mobile solutions.

A 3D CAD cross-section rendering of 80/20 T-slot aluminum profiles joined by internal fasteners with 80/20 branding visible on the hardware.A 3D CAD cross-section rendering of 80/20 T-slot aluminum profiles joined by internal fasteners with 80/20 branding visible on the hardware.

Adjust Fasteners and
Components Quickly

Experience faster design cycles with automated hardware placement and quick-change fasteners. Effortlessly add panels, casters, and bearings, ensuring every detail is captured in seconds.

What Can IdeaBuilder Do?

  • Web-based – no additional software needed Windows/Mac compatible

  • Instantly updates with new features and parts, nothing to download

  • Easy to use with little or no experience

  • Design with 80/20 T-slot aluminum and steel pipe from Flexpipe

  • Very fast design capability using click, drag, & snap technology

  • Automatically adds fastener machining services with fasteners to extrusions and panels

  • Generates an itemized bill of material and detailed design documents

  • Provides price estimates for your project

  • Export an XML file for immediate purchasing from one of our distribution partners

  • Allows you to share designs with our distribution partners to review your more complex design if needed.

  • Includes exploded views and tagged drawings to assist with final assembly.

  • Save and share designs

How-To Tutorials

Learn the Tools and Features

Explore how-to tutorial videos to learn features and tools with IdeaBuilder, plus discover tips and tricks to speed up your design process.

Thumbnail for an 80/20 IdeaBuilder tutorial video, showing the software's user interface, navigation menus, and the 3D grid design workspace.Thumbnail for an 80/20 IdeaBuilder tutorial video, showing the software's user interface, navigation menus, and the 3D grid design workspace.
Technical Support

Have a Design Question?

There's support at your fingertips. Contact an IdeaBuilder design specialist with questions during your build process. 

A man wearing a headset sits at a desk, looking at a computer monitor displaying a 3D T-slot aluminum frame design in the IdeaBuilder software interface.A man wearing a headset sits at a desk, looking at a computer monitor displaying a 3D T-slot aluminum frame design in the IdeaBuilder software interface.
Helpful Downloads

Things to Support Your Design

80/20 has documents to provide help during the design and buying process. From keyboard shortcuts to how-to instructions for ordering your design on 8020.net.

Infographic detailing the 80/20 IdeaBuilder ordering process, including exporting XML/PDF files and uploading the Bill of Materials to the 8020.net shopping cart.Infographic detailing the 80/20 IdeaBuilder ordering process, including exporting XML/PDF files and uploading the Bill of Materials to the 8020.net shopping cart.

How to Order Online

A comprehensive guide listing keyboard shortcuts for 80/20 IdeaBuilder software, including universal commands, entity selection, and coordinate entry instructions.A comprehensive guide listing keyboard shortcuts for 80/20 IdeaBuilder software, including universal commands, entity selection, and coordinate entry instructions.

Keyboard Shortcuts

Distributor Support

Need Support in Your Area?

Take advantage of 80/20 services through our network of distribution partners near you. Select from design assistance, on-site visits and ongoing support.

Local technical support sales representative shaking hands with a customer in an industrial warehouse settingLocal technical support sales representative shaking hands with a customer in an industrial warehouse setting
CAD software displaying a modular aluminum T‑slot framing structure used for engineering design and product developmentCAD software displaying a modular aluminum T‑slot framing structure used for engineering design and product development

Design Benefits of Using IdeaBuilder

Discover how IdeaBuilder can transform your design process in our latest blog post on the benefits of using this powerful cloud‑based tool. Learn how IdeaBuilder simplifies complex T‑slot and pipe design with intuitive drag‑and‑drop 3D modeling, helps you visualize and validate ideas before you build, and generates accurate bills of materials and cost estimates—all without expensive software or CAD experience.