Using 3d models for case cutouts?

[poodyp]

So I'm trying to design a project using a Hammond case. Thankfully Hammond provides 3d models, which is great for finding the right board shape, but I was wondering if I can use the 3D models of the buttons, plugs, and whatnot, to make a drawing for cutting the openings.

I know I could just do it by hand with the measurements, but it would be much simpler if there were a way to do it automatically.

[D3f1ant]

I recommend CAD software such as Solidworks or Inventor (or some other 3D cad package) for the mechanical aspects.  Virtually assembling PCBs into boxes, adding switches, displays etc is much much easier if you use the right tool for the job.

[T3sl4co1l]

That's at the point where I save the STEP and send it to the project ME.

Actually, beyond that point, because we've probably been doing some back-and-forth already.  Or, the mechanical design is fixed by other constraints, and I already have a model to go.

If you're doing this yourself, you can make the drawing for where to cut -- pick off another mechanical layer and start drawing.  Add lots of points on the 3D models to snap lines to.  You can also turn the model sideways (open its properties and change angles) and get snap locations that way.  Or save a STEP of the PCB and load that, working from it in whatever orientations are suitable, so you get board and components in the same view.

It's not going to be anywhere as nice, or as easy, as doing it in SolidWorks (or having someone else do it!), of course.

Tim

[poodyp]

Ah yes, doing it in Solidworks makes sense, I'll have to figure all that out then. Thanks for the help.

[ajb]

If you're not already familiar with SolidWorks and/or don't want to pay another $8k for MCAD, you might take a look at Autodesk's Fusion 360.  I've been hearing a lot of good things about it, and it's much less expensive than SW, down to being free for hobbyists or small entrepreneurs.  I think the commercial license is like US$30/month.