Mechanical Design FAQs
What can Flux design in 3D CAD?
Flux can create custom parts that fit real board and component models, multi-part assemblies, and complete products with the electronics inside them. It can design board enclosures, create component package models from datasheets, attach vendor STEP models to footprints, create board outlines and artwork from DXF or SVG files, and edit imported CAD models and assemblies.
Can Flux edit a 3D model that I import?
Yes. Flux creates new models from a prompt, and it also edits models and assemblies you import. In the Inspector, open Assets, click Manage Assets, then click Add Item. Upload a .step, .stp, .stpz, .iges, .igs, or .brep file. Then ask Flux to resize the model, move a hole or cutout, or change a feature. Flux keeps the original file unchanged in the project. For an assembly, Flux keeps each part in its original position, with its color and repeated instances.
Can Flux design assemblies and mechanisms?
Yes. Describe the parts and how they connect. Ask Flux to create the models and align them by face, edge, or axis constraints. For example, ask Flux to place the parts of a pan-tilt mechanism around their pivot axes.
Can Flux design a complete product?
Yes. Flux can create the mechanical parts for a product and place the board and its parts in the assembly. Describe the product, its functions, and its dimensions. You can ask Flux to build a handheld device or a robot arm from its component parts.
Can Flux create a 3D model for an electronic component?
Yes. Ask Flux to create a package model from the component datasheet and attach it to the footprint. You can also provide a vendor STEP model to use as the component's 3D model.
Can Flux design an enclosure for my PCB?
Yes. Describe the board, connector access, mounting points, lid, and manufacturing requirements. Ask Flux to create the enclosure around the board. You can ask for a concept sketch first if you want to compare ideas.
Can Flux check fit, clearance, interference, stress, deflection, and heat?
Yes. Ask Flux to measure fit and clearance between placed parts and check for interference. For a part under load, ask Flux to analyze stress or deflection and report the values with units. For a part that gets hot, ask Flux to run a thermal analysis of heat conduction through the part.
How do I inspect a 3D model?
In the PCB editor, open the View panel. In Display, choose X-Ray, Solid, Realistic, or Blueprint from Materials. To measure the model, press M to start Measure Distance, then select points on the model. Expand Analysis and turn on Cross Section to view inside the model. Choose an Axis, adjust Depth, and use Flip kept side to change which side remains visible. Use Curvature Combs to inspect surface curvature and show or hide curve groups.
What 3D model files can I import?
To add a CAD model or assembly as a project asset, open Assets in the Inspector, click Manage Assets, then click Add Item. Upload a .step, .stp, .stpz, .iges, .igs, or .brep file.
To import a library part, open Flux menu → Import → Part…. Select a .lib or .kicad_sym symbol library with its .kicad_mod footprint and matching .step or .stp model files. You can also import .json part files with matching .step or .stp models.
What 3D formats can Flux export?
Open Flux menu → Export → Mechanical → PCB 3D model. Choose STL (.stl), STEP (.step), STEP compressed (.stpZ), GLB (.glb), COLLADA, BREP, VRML, or XAO.
Can Flux render a 3D model or create an animation?
Yes. Ask Flux for a still render, a turntable video, or an exploded-view animation of your CAD models. You can also ask for a product video of your device and describe the scene and camera motion, such as showing the board and enclosure assembling into the finished product.
How do I get a 3D-print quote and order a part?
Ask Flux for a quote for a model in your project. Review the Craftcloud offers, including the process, material, price, shipping, and lead time. Choose an offer and ask Flux to place the order. Pay the vendor directly to complete the order.