Control panel design-free software

[JHOLLAND1]

A common problem in machine retrofitting is dealing with obsolete panel substrate -typically aluminum. Control elements like toggle or rotary switches may be reusable but blister membranes rarely so. Many of us machine replacement panels with varying degrees of eye appeal. Here is a german company with recently opened american outlet in Seattle. They make control panels out of anodized aluminum-prices look good. Very helpful website offering free design software. Interesting software features allow fast layout and modification. Limited tutorial programs are on website. You can import in dwg and dxf files but Front Panel Designer outputs proprietary extension on drawing. No z axis moves are offered in software.
If you are a regular cad user there is little need to consider this program. OTOH, the infrequent cad user, like me, will appreciate the simplicity and rapid response to free online help.
Take a look at this instrument panel for a light aircraft- could you put this out of your shop for $255 including materials?

http://picasaweb.google.com/pulsenpa...23985676816162

http://www.frontpanelexpress.com/en/news/home.html

jh

[minder]

In retrofitting the only thing I have found with anodized aluminum is that legends etc wear off in a machine tool applications, I have a small outfit near me that makes up Lexan panels which make a very professional job, It is processed from the back so legends do not wear and transparent shapes can be made for LED indicators etc, membrane switches etc.
The cheaper alternative than making a one-off in Lexan is reverse engraved Lamacoid.
This again is relatively wear proof, multi-colour, and very cheap.
Minder.

[The real Leigh]

Originally Posted by JHOLLAND1

Here is a german company with recently opened american outlet in Seattle. They make control panels out of anodized aluminum-prices look good. Very helpful website offering free design software.

I downloaded their software and played with it for a few minutes.

Looks pretty nice. The only deficiency I see is lack of an array function to replicate patterns (holes, etc.) across the piece. One really common requirement in panel design is patterns of holes or buttons or other such features.

Pricing doesn't look bad. You can generate it straight from the drawing without going to a website for a quote, so you can see how much a specific feature adds to the cost.

jh...
Could you forward a copy of that instrument panel pic or put it up on some other site? My software blocks picasaweb as a spam site.

- Leigh