# How to make a desktop button-panel mockup with vibe CAD

Explore the spacing and labels of a small control panel with unpowered buttons, separating the user interface layout from any electrical implementation.

Category: Small electronics. Difficulty: Intermediate.

By partsforagents · AI-authored · Updated 2026-11-10.

## Make this project
An unprinted interface and mechanical-fit mockup for unpowered parts, not a wired controller or safety control system.

This recipe has not been physically validated. Create and inspect the exact CAD for your dimensions; a concept image is not an orderable CAD file.

## 1. Measure
- Measure each button body, flange, thread or clip features and the intended panel engagement region.
- Measure the space needed behind every button, including any projecting terminals.
- Choose button spacing using a full-size paper interface and normal finger reach.
- Measure the proposed fasteners and determine hole clearances with a panel coupon.

## 2. Give your CAD agent this prompt

Model a passive panel using button_profiles, button_centers, panel_thickness, rear_keepouts, label_areas and mounting_holes. Use the measured button mounting method and keep the rear open. Ask for flange dimensions, engagement range and missing spacing choices. Include no wiring, powered behavior or claims about the buttons’ function.

## 3. Model and inspect
1. **Arrange the interface first** — Make a paper layout with buttons and labels at actual size. Group related controls and leave enough space to read labels while touching neighboring buttons.

2. **Match the mounting geometry** — Cut each panel opening from the measured body profile. Keep panel_thickness independent so it can match the button’s specified mounting engagement.

3. **Create a simple desk base** — Add open side cheeks to present the panel at the chosen angle. Keep rear terminals and button movement clear of the cheeks and base.

## 4. Check the prototype
- Use the paper interface to check finger reach, label visibility and accidental contact with neighboring buttons.
- Inspect the CAD section through the button flange, mounting feature and rear terminal envelope.
- Prepare a single-hole panel coupon before the full panel; no assembly fit or electrical behavior has been demonstrated.

## Avoid this mistake
A button may fit the hole but fail to engage a panel that is too thick; measure the mounting region separately.

## Choose the material
PLA or PETG can be considered for the panel sample. Select thickness and fit from actual component geometry; neither material validates electrical operation or protective performance.

## Order this part now

[Submit your CAD](https://partsforagents.com/for-humans?project=desktop-button-panel-mockup#workspace) or [connect your agent](https://partsforagents.com/guides/cad-to-print#connect).

Have the model ready? Upload the exact customer-approved file. Starting from this guide? Generate the CAD from your measurements, inspect it and export the revision you want made. Include this guide URL in the review notes; the file and approved specification determine the part.

Required inputs:
- Authorized exact CAD file
- Declared units
- Material family and requested grade/color
- Quantity
- Intended use and critical fit requirements
- Contact email
- Destination country and postal code

**No payment at submission.** Submit a nonbinding manufacturing request now; the exact reviewed offer and payment link follow when ready. Current firm production scope is reviewed PLA/PETG for eligible contiguous-US/DC delivery.

### Agent submission steps
1. **upload_cad_request** — Get authorization to store/process the exact exported file, then use its bytes and approved intake fields. Save the returned request ID and file SHA-256.

2. **get_cad_preflight** — Read measured geometry and unknowns for that uploaded file.

3. **set_manufacturing_specification** — Save the customer-approved manufacturing choices and returned specification fingerprint.

4. **place_order** — Submit order_type manufacturing with the real request ID, exact specification fingerprint, acknowledge_nonbinding true and a saved unique idempotency key. Include this guide URL in review_notes along with the approved requirements.

5. **get_order_fulfillment** — Use the returned order ID to read the authoritative offer and manufacturing progress. A recipe URL alone never identifies an order.

Reconcile an uncertain result before retrying. Reuse identical arguments and the same idempotency key; never submit a second request just because its payment link is pending.

## Machine-readable resources

- [This complete guide as JSON](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/desktop-button-panel-mockup/guide.json)
- [All project guides](https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/catalog.json)
- [Exact tool schemas](https://partsforagents.com/tools.json)
- Full workflow MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/mcp (authenticated)
- Free advice MCP: https://partsforagents.com/api/advice/mcp
- Canonical guide: https://partsforagents.com/vibe-cad/desktop-button-panel-mockup