Imported components (SnapEDA/External) missing 3D models in PCB view

[daniel_zarin]

Hi everyone,

I am designing a PCB in Fusion 360 Electronics. I have downloaded and imported several component libraries from external sources (like SnapEDA).

The Issue: The schematic symbols and 2D footprints work perfectly. However, when I push the design to the 3D PCB view, none of these components appear properly. I only see the flat pads on the board, but the 3D bodies/packages are missing.

This is happening for all the components I imported. Only the standard Fusion library parts show up in 3D.

My Question: Is there a setting I missed during import that links the 3D model automatically? Or do I have to manually assign a 3D model for every single imported part?

Any advice on how to fix this workflow would be appreciated. Thanks!

[Evert_2N3055]

Are you using the Snapeda plugin or just download from the Snapeda website.
At the moment I get error's when using the plugin, No 3D model found.

Check in the library(s) if there's a 3D component.

If not, you need to add the 3D models and after update the library in you schematic.

If you use a tool like Snapeda you need to press several time on save.
First when Snapeda places the 3D model on the footprint, you need to press the green save button.
After that you need to save the library.

[daniel_zarin]

Thanks for the reply.

To answer your question – I am downloading directly from the SnapEDA website (I am not using the plugin).

Here is an example of a part I used: https://www.snapeda.com/parts/TYPE-C-31-M-12/HRO%20Electronics%20Co.,%20Ltd./view-part/

After uploading this file into Fusion and opening the Library, I saw that the 3D model is missing (the package is empty, showing only the symbol and footprint).

This is happening with all the components I have downloaded so far, even though the SnapEDA website indicates that they do include a 3D model.

[Evert_2N3055]

If you download from the website you have to download yourself also the 3D model and add the 3D model yourself to the footprint.

[daniel_zarin]

Thanks.

Is there any other external website where the downloaded library files already include the 3D model automatically?

If not, I will continue using SnapEDA. In that case, could you guide me on the correct way to add the 3D STEP file to the component? I want to make sure I align it correctly with the pads.

[jorge_garcia]

Hello @daniel_zarin ,

I hope you're doing well. For now the 3D models don't ship in the libraries themselves so when you download from a third party source they will usually include a 3D model along with the EAGLE/Fusion library. The correct way to add 3D models to component in the library is detailed here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LlhIeRFX-N4&list=PLmA_xUT-8UlKE-U-eEqrkNEI7rd1fUnLY&index=4

Let me know if there's anything else I can do for you.

Best Regards,

[daniel_zarin]

Hi @jorge_garcia

I am currently manually mapping and aligning 3D STEP files to my footprints in the library.

My question is: Does the precise orientation of the 3D model matter for the actual manufacturing process, or is it mostly for visual reference and rendering?

For example:

Does Fusion use the 3D body bounds for collision detection (ECAD/MCAD integration)?

Does the rotation of the 3D model affect the generated Pick & Place (Centroid) file?

If I accidentally map the model rotated 180 degrees relative to the footprint (so Pin 1 on the 3D body doesn't match Pin 1 on the PCB), will it cause errors later?

I want to know how critical this alignment is. Thanks!

[jorge_garcia]

Hello @daniel_zarin ,

The precise orientation of the 3D model will not matter for the gerbers or manufacturing files of the PCB itself. The accuracy of the 3D models is really important for the ECAD/MCAD integration since if the models are mapped correctly you'll be able to check for collisions in the enclosure. The stuff generated in Fusion's drawing environment will also be incorrect.

So mapping the model incorrectly won't create issues for the manufacturing of the PCB itself but it really kills the benefit of the ECAD/MCAD integration.

Let me know if there's anything else I can do for you.

Best Regards,

[daniel_zarin]

Thank you for the clear explanation!

That puts my mind at ease regarding the manufacturing files. However, since my goal is indeed to design an enclosure for this PCB, I understand that accurate alignment is crucial to avoid mechanical collisions later on.

I will proceed with manually aligning the STEP files for the imported components to ensure the ECAD/MCAD integration works as intended.

Thanks again for your help.

[heather_tracy]

Hello, @daniel_zarin ,

Just checking in—did the responses shared by @Evert_2N3055  & @jorge_garcia help clarify your question?

If so, please consider clicking the "Accept Solution" button on the post(s) that solved your problem. Doing so helps others in the community easily find useful answers.

If your question still needs more attention, feel free to reply here with an update. This way, other members can jump in with further suggestions or guidance to help you move forward.

All the best,

Heather | Community Manager