Export to STL missing model

Software
1

I’ve got a PCB populated with 3D models. One of the models is a wrl file for micro SD Card:

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This is all working and I can view it in the 3D viewer:
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However when I do a export to STL (So I can import into OpenScad) all the models are exported except for the micro SD card.

Is this some bug in KiCad or a issue with the wrl file that the export doesn’t like:

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Running KiCad 9.0.0 on Ubuntu 24.04

Micro SD wrl file:
GCT-MEM2055-00-190-01-A.wrl (141.7 KB)

2

Have a read of this: What is the difference between step and wrl 3d models?

You need dimension information for STEP.

3

Made a mistake on the above. Meant to say I’m exporting to .STL (and not STEP)

4

OK, same comment applies, STL also needs dimension information not contained in WRL.

5

Curious as to why all the other models are working as they are .wrl

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6

Perhaps they all have STEP alternatives . . . the STEP files will be used for STEP and STL exports.

For example:

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7

the STEP files will be used for STEP and STL exports.

Thanks. Wasn’t aware of that.

Found a STEP version of the file and that’s fixed it.

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8

All standard KiCad 3D models come in .vrml AND .step formats exactly for this reason. Kicad searches for a .step with the same name during cad export, and uses the vrml for the internal renderer.

You can even turn that substitution off with the “Substitude similarly named models” option in the cad export dialogue:
grafik

If you build your own 3D model for a footprint, its better to just use step. It still will be shown in the 3d Viewer and can be exported for cad use. IIRC the whole VRML ballast will be dropped in the future anyway. (Cant wait for that)

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