Model Context Protocol · mechanical CAD

CAD MCP server for ChatGPT, Claude and coding agents

Use kernelCAD to build real, editable parametric 3D parts from natural-language specifications. Inspect the model, check dimensions and geometry, then export STEP, STL, 3MF or a drawing PDF for your next manufacturing step.

Connect your agent Try kernelCAD Studio

Remote MCP endpoint: https://mcp.kernelcad.com/mcp (Streamable HTTP). For supported use, see the hosted MCP guide.

From a prompt to an editable part

  1. Describe the geometry. Give measurements, mounting-hole sizes, clearances, materials and the intended process. For example: “Create a 60 × 40 × 5 mm plate with four M4 clearance holes, 5 mm from the edges.”
  2. Build the model. The agent uses kernelCAD tools to create and evaluate parametric CAD source instead of generating only a picture.
  3. Inspect and revise. Check dimensions, geometry and supported design-for-manufacturing rules. Edit the source and run the checks again.
  4. Export. Download STEP for downstream CAD/CAM, STL or 3MF for a print workflow, or a PDF drawing for review. Confirm the final file before sending it to a manufacturer.

Explore the documented local tool contracts and a worked prompt-to-STEP example. Hosted tool availability depends on the connected client, authorization and selected profile.

Connect kernelCAD to an AI client

ChatGPT

Open the kernelCAD app in ChatGPT, or follow the current ChatGPT connection steps. Complete any account authorization in ChatGPT, not in a chat message.

Claude

Use the Claude connector setup with the hosted endpoint. For Claude Code, run:

claude mcp add --transport http --scope user kernelcad https://mcp.kernelcad.com/mcp
claude mcp list

Codex and other MCP clients

For Codex, run codex mcp add kernelcad --url https://mcp.kernelcad.com/mcp. For Cursor, VS Code, Gemini CLI or a local MCP deployment, use the client-specific instructions. Reuse an existing connection instead of installing a duplicate.

Where a CAD agent helps

  • 3D printing: design brackets, enclosures, adapters and fixtures with explicit dimensions.
  • CNC and machining: create a source-based part, review supported manufacturing constraints and export STEP.
  • Robotics: model mounting plates, servo brackets, assembly interfaces and mechanical clearances.
  • Team review: open a model in Studio, give visual feedback and revise the same parametric source.

For electronic circuits, firmware simulation and PCBs, LabWired provides a separate MCP workflow. Use kernelCAD for the mechanical work; use LabWired for the electronic work.

Common questions

Is this a picture generator or a CAD system?

kernelCAD produces editable model source that a geometry kernel evaluates. The files and supported checks provide a workflow beyond a visual concept, but still require engineering review for the intended use.

Can I use it without installing CAD software?

Yes. The hosted MCP endpoint runs remotely. A local installation is also available through the kernelcad npm package for users who want local execution.

Will it order or certify the part?

No. The MCP tools do not replace fit testing, mechanical safety validation, production approval, certification or payment at a manufacturer.

Start with the connection guide, then test one dimensioned bracket from prompt through export. For tool names and input schemas, query the MCP server you have connected.