Implications of border lines and 3D footprint lines on Mechanical Layer 1
3 min
In the process of PCB (Printed Circuit Board) design, the Mechanical Layer plays a crucial role in defining the physical aspects of the board. It helps in determining the placement of components, recognition of slots, and creation of drilled holes. In this article, we will explore the implications of border lines and 3D footprint lines on Mechanical Layer 1 in PCB manufacturing using an example.
Example Scenario:
Let's consider a scenario where Mechanical Layer 1 has placed border lines and 3D footprint lines for components. The image provided below showcases the design:
Analyzing the Design:
In the given design, the 3D footprint lines of the components are drawn on Mechanical Layer 1. However, it is important to note that in the final product, these 3D footprint lines will not be included. Instead, the design includes four circles that are intended to produce drilled holes.
Guidelines for Proper Component Placement and Slot Recognition:
Based on the provided design, we can identify certain aspects that need to be addressed to ensure accurate manufacturing and avoidance of unnecessary slots or missing holes. Here are the key guidelines:
Placement of Edge Lines and Circles:
To optimize design clarity and accuracy, it is recommended to place the complete edge lines and the four circles that need to be formed on Mechanical Layer 2, rather than Mechanical Layer 1.
Unique Edge Layer for Irregular Slots:
For screw holes or irregular slots (shapes drawn) that need to be formed within the board, it is crucial to draw them correctly on a unique edge layer. This allows for precise recognition and implementation of the desired slot shapes during manufacturing.
Consideration of Layer Priority:
It's important to understand how layers are prioritized for routing purposes. In situations where both the KEEP-OUT layer and Mechanical Layer have complete borders, JLCPCB (the PCB manufacturer) will prioritize the elements from the Mechanical Layer and disregard data from the KEEP-OUT layer.
In cases where multiple Mechanical Layers exist, all with complete borders, the lowest numbered Mechanical Layer will be considered as the outline layer. For instance, if there are Mechanical 1, Mechanical 2, Mechanical 3, and Mechanical 4 layers, the elements from Mechanical 1 will be used for routing purposes, while data from Mechanical 2, Mechanical 3, and Mechanical 4 will be ignored.
Conclusion
Understanding the role of the Mechanical Layer in PCB design is crucial for accurate component placement and slot recognition. By following the guidelines provided in this article and considering the example scenario, you can ensure their designs are optimized for manufacturing processes. Proper utilization of the Mechanical Layer, along with other relevant layers, will result in high-quality PCBs that meet the desired specifications.
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