RS Components announce launch of PCB converter module for Google SketchUp, providing eCAD tools with a 3D dimension
RS Components announced the release of their new PCB Converter for SketchUp tool that allows designers to import Intermediate Data Format (IDF) files into Google SketchUp. The new module adds a 3D CAD back-end capability to PCB design tools and takes SketchUp into the electronic product design domain, transferring files from any CAD environment providing IDF output into COLLADA format.
PCB Converter
for SketchUp can be downloaded free from the DesignSpark SparkStore at
www.designspark.com , from the RS website at
rswww.com/electronics , or from the
plug-ins area on the Google SketchUp website.
Google SketchUp is already
known as the world’s most popular free 3D design tool, and is rapidly gaining a
widespread and loyal following with electronics design engineers. This is not
only due to its capabilities as a CAD package, but also the fact that many of
these capabilities are available in the free version. Using PCB Converter for
SketchUp, users can, for the first time, import IDF files, a file specification
designed specifically for the exchange of printed circuit assembly data between
mechanical design and PCB layout.
Electronics engineers are able to
export their PCB designs into Google SketchUp to assess their compatibility with
the mechanical constraints of enclosures and mounts. This allows them to make
design decisions immediately, and avoids the need for redesign requests and
design reviews. Users can then incorporate 3D models of popular
electromechanical components to complete their design. CAD models of products in
the RS product range can be downloaded from its website in SketchUp compliant
format (*.skp) and used in the tool.
Commenting for RS Components,
Mark Cundle, Technical Marketing Manager said: “We’ve witnessed the growing
popularity of Google SketchUp with electronic designs engineers, shown in format
downloads of our 3D CAD models from the RS website, as well as comments and
feedback from DesignSpark members. RS is delighted to be launching PCB Converter
for SketchUp, continuing the development of free, essential design resources
available for engineers through DesignSpark.”
For Google, Stephen
Dapkus, Google SketchUp Team added: “PCB converter for SketchUp offers
electronics design engineers a new pathway to move seamlessly from eCAD to 3D
MCAD design. Google are excited about the vision shown by RS Components in the
development of PCB converter for SketchUp and are proud to see Google SketchUp
being used by RS as a key component in the delivery of free access design tools,
integrating the design journey for engineers.”
PCB Converter for SketchUp
is available free of charge without limitation to all members of DesignSpark,
the RS online electronics design community and resource centre. DesignSpark
provides free access to information, resources and reviews. Users will also have
access to a full suite of video tutorials and examples.
RS Components
201107251125.7.2011SoftwareRS Components GmbH