grabowski
046f66f6eb
- Add dedicated /kicad/ directory with organized subdirectories for libraries, schematics, gerbers, plots, and backups - Create comprehensive KiCad 9 library structure (symbols, footprints, 3D models) - Add manufacturing-ready directories for production files (gerbers, drill, pick-and-place) - Update all README files with KiCad-specific documentation and workflows - Add KiCad-optimized .gitignore file for proper version control - Create KICAD-PROJECT-TEMPLATE.md comprehensive usage guide - Add hardware assembly documentation and BOM management - Include detailed manufacturing file generation instructions - Add docs structure with design-notes and user-manual directories - Provide complete workflow from design to manufacturing with quality checklists
62 lines
2.0 KiB
Markdown
62 lines
2.0 KiB
Markdown
# /kicad/libraries/3dmodels
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Custom 3D models for your KiCad project footprints.
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## File Formats
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- **STEP files (`.step`)**: Preferred for mechanical accuracy and CAD integration
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- **VRML files (`.wrl`)**: Legacy format, still supported by KiCad 3D viewer
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- **WRL files (`.wrl`)**: Alternative VRML extension
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## Naming Convention
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- Use descriptive names matching your footprints
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- Examples:
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- `USB-C_Receptacle.step`
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- `STM32F4_LQFP64.step`
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- `Header_2x10_2.54mm.wrl`
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## Model Guidelines
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- **Scale**: Ensure models are in millimeters (KiCad's native unit)
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- **Origin**: Position the model origin to match the footprint's origin
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- **Orientation**: Align the model with the footprint's orientation
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- **Detail Level**: Balance detail with file size for performance
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## File Organization
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```
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3dmodels/
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├── connectors/
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│ ├── USB-C_Receptacle.step
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│ ├── Header_2x10_2.54mm.step
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│ └── Terminal_Block_3pin.step
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├── mcu/
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│ ├── STM32F4_LQFP64.step
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│ └── ESP32_Module.step
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├── sensors/
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│ ├── BME280_LGA8.step
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│ └── MPU6050_QFN24.step
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└── passive/
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├── Resistor_0603.step
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├── Capacitor_0805.step
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└── LED_0603.step
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```
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## Associating Models with Footprints
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1. Open footprint in KiCad Footprint Editor
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2. Go to **Footprint Properties**
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3. Click **3D Settings** tab
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4. Add 3D model path (use relative paths)
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5. Adjust offset, rotation, and scale if needed
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## Model Sources
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- **Manufacturer websites**: Often provide STEP models
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- **Component distributors**: Digi-Key, Mouser, etc.
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- **3D model libraries**: GrabCAD, 3D ContentCentral
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- **KiCad official libraries**: For standard components
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- **Custom modeling**: Create your own in CAD software
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## Best Practices
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- Use relative paths: `${KIPRJMOD}/kicad/libraries/3dmodels/`
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- Keep file sizes reasonable (< 1MB per model when possible)
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- Test models in KiCad 3D viewer before finalizing
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- Document model sources and modifications
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- Version control important custom models
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