It is nice that Shapr3D is able to import the board part of the design directly from KiCad. It makes creating the board fixture and case a lot easier. Here is a side by side for KiCad 3D viewer and Shapr3D [Screen Shot 2021-02-01 at 6.34.48 PM]

If you don’t mind my asking, how do you like KiCad? I “used” to use Eagle Cad. You get an extensive custom library built it’s hard to change to another program. Since AutoDesk took over Eagle, looking for a new one. SOC project?

I like KiCad. The price is right and it has been shown to be very capable by folks like Michael Ossman. I’ve not used Eagle cad so I can’t offer a comparison there. I am sure you can find better. I’ve had to draw my own footprints and parts a fair amount.

I am a user of kiCad and Shapr3d i never thought to export from kicad. What is the process? What is the file exchange you are using?

In KiCad in board design File → Export → Step. Then import that file into Shapr3D. Looks like via’s, text, and a few other things are missing. But it is good enough for modeling case/fixtures.

Export the copper layers et al to SVG?

all the layers you want in the export. But not .SVG use .STEP [2021-02-02 15.35.37]

Will all the layers export as step? I was under the impression that the mask, copper etc wouldn’t.

I am not sure what all layers are put into the step file. I know SVG has a lot more options to select but Shapr3D does not support SVG (yet). For the import into Shapr3D I am most interested in the drill holes and board outline so was pretty excited to see that “looks” right. My boards are on the way, so I will see soon how well it works when making the case design from the .STEP file. I’ve done some measuring and things seem to be correct.

Personally I found it useless to 3D a pcb board other than the looks and commercial use. There are other apps specialized to draw and manufacture pcb boards and solder components for your requirements. “like the one Mr.@Yepher used” It’d be cool if one app could make it all though. :slightly_smiling_face:

It can be VERY useful in reverse engineering. Example is when you must create a product that is form fit and function compatible with the original discontinued product, where the application affects more than 2 or 3 different applications AND you have to start your design with the case size for all applications + unknown applications. Visualization can be very important in product dev considerations. Even down to the PCB traces. Been there done that. When your design must fit a very small form factor, it get’s “tricky”.

Import from KiCad

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Oregonerd February 3, 2021, 3:16am 12

Have a look here "Import” shapes/text from .svg to avoid tracing

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Import from KiCad

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