With an increasing number of users exporting their PCB board outline and components to DesignSpark Mechanical, the question arises, “Where do I set the precision (i.e. the number of digits after the decimal point) for the data?”, as required in the DesignSpark Mechanical design.
IDF uses the same values that you set in DSPCB, under Settings – Units on the Menubar.
So, ensure that you use a precision value suitable for your continuation of the mechanical design in DesignSpark Mechanical.
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Another important setting in DSPCB prior to generating the IDF is for the Value “Height” for each component. This along with the component symbol shape on the Silkscreen, Placement, or Mechanical layer, will determine the shape of the solid representing the component in DesignSpark Mechanical.
For example:
This PCB output as an IDF
produces the DSM 3D representation by a simple import step.
The above is a quick and simple process.
The block form of the components generated by the IDF process in DesignSpark Mechanical enables you to design an enclosure around the PCB, taking into account orientation, mounting holes and clearances.
This can be enhanced further by replacing the component blocks with 3D models of the components, for example where a precision opening in the enclosure or simply a visually realistic 3D representation is required.
A detailed tutorial for this is planned.
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