In this thread: PCB shape from enclosure STEP file
I wrote:
Which is an index in into the video posted a little bit earlier in that thread.
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Thanks for the pointer. Must have missed that.
My two cents (probably useful working scenario):
0959w
I create such footprints by adding many pads having the same pad number. At least I have done this for this transistor in real life: https://www.vishay.com/docs/68550/sqjb40ep.pdf
Creating your footprint would take up to 10 minutes (only several CTRL + D operations, pad property changes (use “Push pad properties to other pads” in right mouse click menu, and some changes in pad geometries (done by simple dragging operations with mouse). I tend not to take a risk of miss-talk somewhere in long path with external tools: freecad-stepup-dxfexport-dxfimport.
I don’t remember if doing so caused any DRC mistakes. As for soldermask openings - yes, please use “SMD aperture” type pads, or just a simple graphical shapes on any layer desirable (solder mask or solder paste…). This is very useful when custom paste openings are needed on a soldering stencil (adding rectangles or “SMD aperture” type pads).
I accidentally got the idea of using duplicate pads in the footprint from one of stock footprints (I do not remember which one). See this screenshot from stock library (containing SMD aperture pads for stencil layer, I am sure there is on footprint with duplicate “real” copper pads arranged to make one big custom shaped pad):
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