In this article, we’ll explore 5 reasons why PCB designers need modeling software.
PCB DESIGNERS NEED 3D MODELING SOFTWARE
In the past, PCB design revisions were expensive and time-consuming. That’s why PCB designers need 3D modeling software.
In the early days of PCB design, designers focused on placement and routing. Mechanical engineers focus on making sure the PCBA (printed circuit board assembly) fits into the enclosure. After the PCBA is made, the assembled prototype is sent to the mechanical engineering team for verification. At least that’s how it works in big companies. In smaller companies, PCB designers may also take on the role of mechanical engineers.
Either way, mechanical issues are usually not discovered until the PCBA prototype is complete. If the holes aren’t aligned, the capacitors are too high, or the cutouts are forgotten – well, all of these issues mean a redesign of the PCB or mechanical design. Modifications to designs are expensive and time-consuming, as is communication between PCB designers and mechanical engineers.
（Picture of Wonderful PCB）
FIVE REASONS PCB DESIGNERS NEED 3D MODELING SOFTWARE
UPDATE YOUR PCB IN REAL TIME
3D modeled PCBs allow you to instantly see how your design will look and make changes to it in real time. You can easily see if parts are blocking other parts, and even integrate the PCB into the 3D model of the enclosure to check for collisions.
Autodesk Fusion 360 creates the actual 3D model of the PCB, not a rendering. Having an existing model means that the mechanical design consists of 3D objects, not a “picture” of what those 3D objects look like.
Assuming one of your suppliers has a replacement part, simply replace your existing part with a new one and immediately see if there are any problems with the assembly.
（Picture of Wonderful PCB）
MOVING COMPONENTS AND TRACES
With Autodesk Fusion 360, a PCB designer or mechanical engineer can move parts to accommodate changes, and both parties can see the results immediately. What’s more, Fusion 360 can be moved and rewired! Check out the video above to see it in action.
RUN THE SIMULATION
Another advantage of 3D models is that they can be assigned properties. You can run simulations on these properties to provide a thermal profile of the PCB, highlighting hot spots early in the design process. Learn more about running simulations in the video above.
ELIMINATE FILE CLUTTER
Using one software for PCB design (ECAD) and another for mechanical design (MCAD) presents some problems. Converting files from one CAD environment may result in translation errors and revisions will not appear between software from different vendors.
Autodesk Fusion 360 is a unified MCAD and ECAD environment, so there is no export or import of intermediate files. You only have to deal with one software and everyone uses the same shared file.
SEAMLESS COLLABORATION
Collaboration becomes more seamless as PCB designers and mechanical engineers share a single file and can make changes to it in real-time.
If the mechanical engineering team needs to modify the housing and associated PCB outline, the PCB designer sees the changes immediately. Likewise, PCB designers can make changes to components on the PCB, and mechanical teams can see those changes in their 3D models.
OUR PCBA SERVICES
（Picture of Wonderful PCB）
At Wonderful PCB, we focus on quality and provide a full range of PCB services including sourcing, manufacturing and assembly. With our one-stop service, we can easily complete your PCB project. Browse our free online resources or contact our knowledgeable support team for assistance at any stage of your project.
We also offer instant online quotes, component ordering, and reordering. If you have a PCB assembly quote ready, please click the button below to submit your circuit specifications, PCB files, and BOM.
English