LCInterlocking - Laser cut interlocking workbench for FreeCAD

Current version 1.5.0 - release notes.

Goal

This experimental FreeCAD workbench 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" workbench 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

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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 Linux: /home/<username>/.local/share/FreeCAD/Mod
• On Windows: C:\Users\<username>\Appdata\Roaming\FreeCAD\Mod\
• On macOS: /Users/<username>/Library/Application Support/FreeCAD/Mod/

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

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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

Gallery

License

LGPL v2.1