OpenSCAD is a software for creating solid 3D CAD objects. It does not focus on the artistic aspects of 3D modelling for creating computer-animated movies but instead focuses on the CAD aspects when you are planning to create 3D models of e.g. machine parts.
OpenSCAD is not an interactive modeller. Instead it is something like a 3D-compiler that reads in a script file that describes the object and renders the 3D model from this script file. This gives users (the designer) full control over the modelling process and enables you to easily change any step in the modelling process or make designs that are defined by configurable parameters.
It uses Computational Geometry Algorithms Library (CGAL) as the basic Computational Solid Geometry engine, taking care of details such as intersection, difference and minkowski sums. The results can be rendered into 3D STL files.
Key Features
- Two main modelling techniques:
- Constructive solid geometry – uses advanced OpenGL features (2.0) like the Z buffer. This method produces instantaneous results, but has low frame rates when working with highly nonconvex objects.
- Extrusion of 2D outlines.
- Create 3D models in DXF, STL, and OFF file formats.
- STL Import and Export.
- View options:
- Show Edges.
- Show Axes.
- Show Crosshairs.
- Animation.
Website: www.openscad.org
Support: Manual
Developer: Marius Kintel, Clifford Wolf
License: GNU General Public License v2.0
OpenSCAD is written in C++. Learn C++ with our recommended free books and free tutorials.
Related Software
| CAD Software | |
|---|---|
| FreeCAD | 3D-Solid and general purpose design CAD/CAE |
| QCAD | Professional CAD System |
| LibreCAD | CAD in two dimensions |
| BRL-CAD | Constructive Solid Geometry (CSG) solid modeling system |
| OpenCASCADE | Technology, 3D modeling & numerical simulation |
| SALOME | Platform for numerical simulation |
| OpenSCAD | Programmers solid 3D CAD modeller |
| KiCad | Integrated environment for all of the stages of the design process |
| LeoCAD | Design virtual models you can build with LEGO bricks |
| SolveSpace | Parametric 3d CAD tool |
| CadQuery | Python parametric CAD scripting framework |
| Electric | The Electric VLSI Design System |
| gCAD3D | 3D CAD-CAM application which features an integrated 3D OpenGL viewer |
| XTrackCAD | CAD program for designing model railroad layouts |
| KLayout | Viewer and editor for integrated circuit and mask design |
| Dune 3D | Parametric 3D CAD |
| CAD Sketcher | Constraint-based geometry sketcher |
| build123d | Python CAD programming library |
| Design | 2D CAD software for GNOME |
Read our verdict in the software roundup.
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