# How to make a filter case index tab with vibe CAD

Add readable index tabs to closed filter cases stored upright. A loose sleeve carries a paper label above the case edge without covering its latch, so similar cases can be distinguished without opening them.

Category: Photography. Difficulty: Beginner.

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

## Make this project
An unprinted labeling accessory, with no claim that it improves the case's optical or impact protection.

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
- Closed case-edge thickness at the tab location.
- Edge radius and distance to the nearest latch or hinge.
- Label width, height and paper thickness.
- Available headroom above the stored case.

## 2. Give your CAD agent this prompt

Model a filter-case index sleeve with case_edge_thickness, edge_radius, sleeve_depth, sleeve_clearance, label_width and label_height. Ask for missing measurements and the latch location. Add a shallow paper-label pocket and a rounded loose sleeve. Include an interface coupon. Keep the tab removable and away from the case seam; do not alter the protective case or contact exposed glass.

## 3. Model and inspect
1. **Choose an uninterrupted edge** — Locate a short section clear of hinges, latches and opening seams. Measure that exact spot because molded case edges may vary in thickness.

2. **Create the sleeve** — Build an open channel around the measured edge profile. Add relief at the entry so it can slide on without catching the case texture.

3. **Place the label** — Put a small card pocket above the sleeve with a side opening. Keep the label within the storage compartment's measured headroom.

## 4. Check the prototype
- Review the sleeve coupon on the closed case before making the full tab.
- Inspect the digital assembly for interference with the latch and hinge.
- Check label visibility with cases arranged at their actual spacing.

## Avoid this mistake
A large readable tab can still prevent a drawer from closing if its height is measured from the wrong case edge.

## Choose the material
PLA or PETG can be explored for the sleeve. Do not infer a reliable snap fit from material choice alone.

## Order this part now

[Submit your CAD](https://partsforagents.com/for-humans?project=filter-case-index-tab#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/filter-case-index-tab/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/filter-case-index-tab