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Topic: Create 3D model of the faceplate in my 2012 Prius V

Just looking for suggestions on how to do this, definitely want to learn how to do this on my own.

I want to make a 3D model of the face plate on my 2012 Prius V stereo head unit. I have tried 123D but it really wasn't working. I tried doing it manually with the dimensions of the faceplate, screen dimensions, button/dial spacing, and depth of the LCD area but it's not working out that way either. I just don't have a clue what I am doing.

My intent is to make a case for my Nexus 7 that sits as flush against the headunit as possibly, resting mostly inside the LCD area. This case/mount is going to look like it belongs there but can be thrown into the arm rest when not needed. It may not make sense the way I've described it, but hopefully this will help.

I will have tabs on the back of the mount/case "thing" that can insert into the CD slot for support. Magnets glued/epoxied into the back of the case and inside the factory face plate for additional support.  My primary objective is to not damage the factory face plate.

Any suggestions on how I should approach this?


Mahalo!

Jeremy

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Re: Create 3D model of the faceplate in my 2012 Prius V

I'd suggest downloading google sketchup and hit the tutorials. Start with simple basic shapes and objects and work your way up to more complicated items. Learning CAD is generally a time consuming process. If you're in a hurry you might want to check the local community colleges and see if they offer any CAD classes. A side benefit of this is that you can usually buy a student version of some rather expensive CAD software for a few hundred dollars. Of course the student copy is only good for a few years and it my or may not watermark your drawings...

good luck,

TiM