README.md

LCInterlocking - FreeCAD Laser Cut Interlocking Module

Goal

This experimental FreeCAD module is used to create interlocking cut parts from 3D to 2D SVG. It was created for laser cutting but can work with CNC router.

Important Note:
This is still experimental and as a consequence, not reliable. You must check parts before doing the laser cut.
Please double check the results of this module!

Panel

This panel appears when "Laser cut Interlocking" module is selected:

Tools

• Generate box without connection.
• Create tabs/slots connection. (Interlocking tool)
• Create node for cross connection. (Crosspiece tool)
• Generate rounded box without connection.
• Create bend surface with living hinges.
• Project parts to 2D plan in order to export in SVG format. (Export tool)

Installation

Recommended Install

Install this Addon via the builtin FreeCAD Addon Manager.

1. Locate LCInterlocking in the Addon Manager
2. Install
3. Restart FreeCAD
   Result: 'Laser cut Interlocking' will be available via the workbench dropdown menu.

Manual Install

Expand this to read more about manual installation of LCInterlocking FreeCAD Addon

1. Download the repository as zip via the Github interface or use git to clone the repo via the command line using:

  git clone https://github.com/execuc/LCInterlocking .

2. After the download completes, the module must be moved to the Mod subfolder of the Freecad install directory.
   On Ubuntu 16.04 move the module to /usr/share/freecad-daily/Mod/
   In Windows it will probably be something like C:\Program Files\FreeCAD\Mod
   On Debian 9, the Mod directory is in ~/.FreeCAD/Mod/

3. Restart Freecad and the LCInterlocking module should be detected.

Troubleshooting Tip

It is advisable to show the FreeCAD report view and to redirect the python errors to show module warning/error.

Feedback

If you encounter a bug please participate in the dedicated FreeCAD discussion thread and open a ticket in this repo's issue queue.

Some videos previous versions

• Box generator/interlocking/inkscape: https://youtu.be/YGFIdLpdWXE
• Box tool: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wuu_lRsXGd0
• Rounded box tool: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lEOgZ6k9Vxw
• Crosspiece: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tIchogx5BLE
• Rounded corner: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KSnMxqjA_-Q

Changelog

v1.4: In progress

• Fix for FreeCAD 0.19.

v1.3:

• Fix tab link widget not displayed.

v1.2:

• Fix float entry max value(99.99) bug.

v1.1:

• Restore crosspiece dog bones and node options.
• Add fast preview option for interlocking tool.

v1.0:

• Add a preview button to interlocking and crosspiece tool.
• All tools can now be reedited.
• Add support to Python 3 of Freecad 0.18.

Gallery

License

LGPL v2.1