I should have asked: which allows me to create a very simple device case (rectangles and some rounded corners) without having do deal with a clusterfuck of an interface?
Discussion
Well you can search to see if something already exists that will work on sites like Bambu lab or thing verse.
To more easily create your own file: you could use Bambu studio. It allows you to right click the build plate and "add primitives" as well as burrow into solid objects, to generate objects fairly easily
A simpler option could be their online tools, like "make my vase" but these may not be advanced enough to do what you need
What exactly is your design? If it is very specific then you might have to muck around in a 3D program. If its not you can probably find someone has already made it online either for free or a price and you can put it into the 3D program of your choice.
Example:
https://www.turbosquid.com/Search/3D-Models/free/case?dd_referrer=https%3A%2F%2Fsearch.brave.com%2F
Just have to make sure the file format is compatible with the program
OBJ is universal though. As far as I know I haven't encountered a 3D program that can't read it.
Oh there are annoying pop ups and you might need to sign up for the website. But I just use a throw away email
It is very specific as it is to fit the force sensor and pcb that I made. It’s very simple though. I guess I’ll just do it in windows paint 3D because fuck CAD
Sorry I am venting on you totally undeserved 😔 thank you for the tips 🫂
Haha no worries. I hate 3D that's why I don't mess with it anymore. But since you need specific measurements for a 3D printer you would have to make it yourself or get someone to do it for you. I did see someone mention AI. I get the principal they can give you the code/coordinates you need and can input it in the program and the program will read it. But idk how accurate it is. I have never tried it out myself. Its probably as good as vibe coding. Good on the outside but if you need to edit something it falls apart.
In case you want to entertain the idea of having AI write out the coordinates for you I would try a prompt like this:
You are an expert in 3D modeling, and printing with extensive knowledge of software such as AutoCAD and, Blender. Your skill set includes creating detailed and realistic 3D models, understanding different modeling techniques, and ensuring accurate measurements and proportions.
Create an STL File for a simple device case that would fit the force sensors and pcb of ____ the dimensions need to be _____.
I would copy and paste the code into a text file and change the .txt to .stl and see if your program can open it.
Example video: https://youtu.be/nVIMVBmAi_8
wow thanks for all the effort you put in this. i'm fluent in vector graphics, can i do a footprint in illustrator and extrude that ?
Hmm I personally don't have experience doing that, but it seems like you can. It just might only be a 2D object. But at least it is a start.