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3.CAD model

CAD files and repository

The windkit's CAD model is built entirely with FreeCAD. FreeCAD is an open source 3D parametric modeller. We have released the CAD model as FCStd (FreeCAD) and STEP (ISO standard). You can either download or clone the git repository to get the files.

Download windkit v1.1

Download the latest windkit build

The windkit git repository can be found here.

The FreeCAD model can be found in the Cad folder, the STEP file in the Export folder. If you are looking for the STEP file only, see here.

We also provide 2D DXF files for all components that need to be laser cutted from aluminium, steel and wood multiplex. Those DXF files can be found at Export/LaserCutterFiles.

Software Requirements

To use the CAD model as a reference during assembly, we recommend FreeCAD or CAD Assistant (with the STEP file). CAD Assistant is a freeware CAD viewer for various formats and is availabe on multiple platforms.

If you want to contribute to this project, test or modify the CAD model, we recommend the following FreeCAD version and workbenches FreeCAD (Link branch by realthunder). For the assembly process we've used the Assembly3 workbench. The workbench is bundled in the fork mentioned above, no additional installation is required. Additionally we use Fasteners WB for fastener groups. This workbench can be installed separately via the Addon Manager in FreeCAD. To get to know Assembly3, have a look at the Assembly3 section of the FreeCAD Wiki and realthunder's old FreeCAD Fork Wiki.

To inspect the DXF files we recommend QCAD or LibreCAD. Both are 2D CAD modellers.

Structure of the CAD model

The CAD is organised into sub-assemblies and these are stored in their respective folders. The sub-assemblies are shown in the image below.

Each assembly folder contains:

  • Components.NAMEOFTHESUBASSEMBLY.FCStd file containing all the parts of the sub-assembly.
  • SubAssembly.NAMEOFTHESUBASSEMBLY.FCStd file where the sub-assembly lives in.
  • If fasteners are used multiple times a FastenerAssembly.NAMEOFTHESUBASSEMBLY.FCStd file which usually contains the bolt, washer and nut.

All sub-assemblies are linked to the main assembly MainAssembly.windkit.FCStd. With the new Link feature, you can modify a sub-assembly and the main assembly will be updated instantly without any import.