How to Design a Sliding Dovetail Lid Using 3D CAD Software

Learn How to Design a Sliding Dovetail Lid using 3D CAD Software with the help of this article

How to Design a Sliding Dovetail Lid using 3D CAD Software

Designing a sliding dovetail lid requires precision and an understanding of how interlocking joints function to create a secure and seamless fit. The dovetail joint, known for its strength and durability, is often used in woodworking, but with modern 3D modeling tools like SelfCAD, it can be adapted for use in 3D-printed designs. In this article, we will guide you through the process of creating a sliding dovetail lid using SelfCAD, from outlining the dimensions of the base and lid to constructing the dovetail grooves for a smooth, functional slide. This approach combines traditional design principles with modern digital tools, providing an efficient way to create robust, interlocking components for containers or storage boxes.

To access the interactive tutorial to this article, check out https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials/71491o6z2r683a1bz6pm494ro5w6405q5k4w

Once you’ve launched the editor;

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 200

Click to finalize cube

Click to activate polygon selection; Click on highlighted region to select it

Click delete button to delete selected object

From the modify category on the toolbar choose add thickness; Set thickness to -5

Click to finalize add thickness

From the drawing category on the toolbar choose freehand; From the tool panel choose line, Set symmetry to true, Set symmetry axis to z

From the panel list select left/right; Set height to 200, Set snap to grid vertices to true

Click on highlighted point to draw edge

Type in 44.5 value into the length measurement, Click on highlighted point to draw edge

Type in 6 value into the length measurement, 125 value into the angle measurement, Click on highlighted point to draw edge

Type in 55 value into the angle measurement, Click on highlighted point to draw edge

Press Esc to stop drawing stroke

Click to finalize freehand drawing

Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 5, Set y to 95.2

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

From the tools category on the toolbar choose copy offsets; Set operation to scale, Set x to -0.3, y to -0.3, z to -0.3, Click copy button to create copies

Click ‘x’ to close copy offsets panel

Click on mesh 4 to select it. Click on drawing 1(1) to deselect it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose difference, Choose drawing 1 to subtract

Click to finalize difference

From the 3D Shapes category on the toolbar choose cube; Set width to 15, height to 5, depth to 30, position x to 70, position y to 97

Click to finalize cube

Click on drawing 1(1) to select it

Click stitch & scoop on the toolbar; From the tool panel choose difference, Choose mesh 8 to subtract

Click to finalize difference

Click color picker button to change color of the object; Click orange button

Click ok

Click move on the toolbar; Set x to 50

Click ‘x’ to close transformation panel

Click on difference 1 to select it. Click on difference 2 to deselect

Click color picker button to change color of the object; Click maroon button

Click ok

As you continue honing your design skills, remember that SelfCAD offers a wealth of resources to support your learning journey. To deepen your understanding and explore more advanced features, consider checking out the interactive tutorials (https://www.selfcad.com/tutorials) available on the SelfCAD website. The tutorials page provides a treasure trove of guides, tips, and tricks that cater to designers of all levels.

More structured learning experience can also be accessed at the SelfCAD Academy (https://www.selfcad.com/academy/curriculum/), https://www.youtube.com/@3dmodeling101, and 3D Modeling 101 series (https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL74nFNT8yS9DcE1UlUUdiR1wFGv9DDfTB). This comprehensive resource offers in-depth courses taught by industry experts, allowing you to master the intricacies of SelfCAD at your own pace