b4l-project-template/mechanical

/mechanical

Mechanical design files for all physical components and sub-assemblies.

Purpose

This directory contains mechanical design files for the complete physical system, including multiple sub-assemblies, enclosures, mounting hardware, and mechanical interfaces.

Directory Structure

• cad/ - Editable CAD models and assemblies
• drawings/ - 2D technical drawings and specifications
• enclosure/ - Housing and case designs
• stl/ - 3D printable files for all components

Sub-Assembly Organization

For projects with multiple mechanical sub-assemblies, organize by function:

mechanical/
├── cad/
│   ├── main-assembly/          # Complete system assembly
│   ├── pcb-mount/              # PCB mounting and brackets
│   ├── sensor-housing/         # Sensor enclosures and mounts
│   ├── connector-panel/        # Connector panels and interfaces
│   ├── cooling/                # Heat sinks, fans, thermal management
│   └── fasteners/              # Custom bolts, spacers, hardware
├── drawings/
│   ├── assembly-drawings/      # Overall assembly drawings
│   ├── detail-drawings/        # Individual part drawings
│   ├── interface-drawings/     # Mating part specifications
│   └── manufacturing-drawings/ # Fabrication specifications
├── enclosure/
│   ├── main-housing/           # Primary enclosure
│   ├── sub-enclosures/         # Secondary housings
│   └── covers-panels/          # Removable covers and access panels
└── stl/
    ├── enclosure-parts/        # 3D printable enclosure components
    ├── mounting-hardware/      # Custom brackets and mounts
    ├── prototyping/            # Prototype and test fixtures
    └── tooling/                # Assembly jigs and fixtures

File Types

• CAD Files: Native CAD formats (.sldprt, .step, .iges, .f3d)
• Drawings: PDF technical drawings and DXF files
• 3D Models: STL files for 3D printing, STEP for manufacturing
• Assembly Files: Complete system assemblies and sub-assemblies

Design Considerations

• Modularity: Design for easy assembly and maintenance
• Manufacturing: Consider fabrication methods and tolerances
• Materials: Document material specifications and requirements
• Interfaces: Define mechanical interfaces between sub-assemblies
• Thermal: Account for heat dissipation and airflow
• Accessibility: Ensure access for assembly, service, and repair

CAD File Management

• Use consistent naming conventions across all files
• Maintain assembly hierarchy and relationships
• Include material properties and finish specifications
• Document design intent and critical dimensions
• Version control CAD files with descriptive commit messages

Manufacturing Integration

• Coordinate with PCB dimensions and mounting holes
• Consider assembly sequence and tooling requirements
• Define tolerances and critical dimensions
• Specify surface finishes and treatments
• Include inspection and quality requirements

Documentation Requirements

• Assembly instructions and procedures
• Bill of materials for mechanical components
• Interface specifications and mating requirements
• Manufacturing and fabrication notes
• Testing and validation procedures