Importing KiCAD files into FreeCAD will generate more complete 3D models.

Guide

This tutorial is for users running OSE linux. The FreeCAD-PCB workbench enables direct import of KiCAD PCB models (built kindly by marmni).

How to set-up PCB workbench and import KiCAD PCB

1. Download the workbench from FreeCAD-PCB github.

2. Extract from the zip file.

3. Make sure FreeCAD is closed, and move the extracted folder to the FreeCAD MOD folder (location on OSE linux is /usr/lib/freecad/MOD)

    - if you are not able to move the folder, use Nautilus: gksu nautilus
    - if you do not have permission to run nautilus and don't know the administrative password, then reset it: sudo passwd root
    - if you do not have nautilus download through terminal: sudo apt-get install nautilus

4. With the workbench now in the MOD folder, the PCB workbench should be available in the workbench list.

5. To open a PCB as a 3D model, load the .pcb through the FreeCAD open command. Select (all) the types of data that is needed for the 3D model. (Give FreeCAD a few minutes to process and a correctly sized board should appear)

How to add part models

1. Download the part library from https://github.com/marmni/FreeCAD-PCB-library github].

2. Extract from the zip file.

3. Make sure FreeCAD is closed, and move the extracted subfolders to a FreeCAD part folder (location on OSE linux is /usr/lib/freecad/MOD/FreeCAD-PCB/parts)

4. To include a 3D model of part, right click the part in the list, and select assign model. Add the path to the element.

How to integrate model electronics on machine models

Demonstration

The OS KiCAD to FreeCAD toolchain will be developed/tested on a D3D CNC circuit mill model. Interoperability of these programs will enable more precise 3D models and aid makers working with the desktop microfactory.