Jigs & fixtures
QuantCAD designs jigs and fixtures, such as drill guides, alignment fixtures and positioning aids, from the workpiece dimensions and hole pattern you describe. Each part is a B-rep solid with exact hole diameters and spacing. Export STL to print the jig, or STEP to refine it in CAD or send it to a machine shop.
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How do you describe a jig so it fits the workpiece?
Jigs work best when you describe the workpiece and the required interfaces precisely: where the jig indexes against the part, and where every hole goes.
Drill guide for a flat plate
Create a drill guide block for a flat plate. The guide should be 60mm x 30mm x 18mm. Add a flat bottom face and two 4.2mm drill guide holes (for M4 clearance) spaced 40mm apart on the long axis, centered on the width. Add a 2mm thick alignment lip along one long edge that overhangs 6mm down to index against the plate edge. Add 2mm fillets on external edges.Common constraints
- Workpiece geometry and how the jig indexes against it.
- Hole patterns and drill diameters, or bushing intent.
- Clearance and contact areas, where the jig must not interfere.
- Minimum thickness for durability, and clamping features.
- Edge treatments for safe handling (fillets or chamfers).
Frequently asked questions
What kinds of jigs and fixtures can I model?
Common examples are drill guides, alignment jigs, simple workholding concepts and positioning aids, especially when the geometry can be described with clear dimensions and constraints.
Can I export a jig for 3D printing?
Yes. Export STL to print the jig, or STEP (AP242, millimetres) to refine it in a CAD tool or send it to a machine shop.
What should I include in my prompt?
Define the workpiece size and shape, the exact hole pattern or interface geometry, the clearance you want, and constraints such as minimum thickness or which edges need fillets.