Design Parametric Parts with Code in OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD is free CAD for programmers: you describe a part with shapes and math. Every model in our Vault includes its .scad source, so you can open it and change the dimensions.

Video tutorial

▶ Tom NardiWatch on YouTube ↗

Video by Tom Nardi, embedded from YouTube. The written steps below are our own and match the parts list.

Mission steps

1. Install OpenSCAD

   Download it free for Windows, macOS or Linux from openscad.org.

2. Learn three shapes

   cube(), cylinder() and sphere() plus translate() to move them.

3. Combine them

   union() joins shapes, difference() subtracts holes, hull() wraps shapes for rounded parts.

4. Use variables

   Put sizes at the top (board width, hole spacing) so one change updates the whole model.

5. Remix the Vault

   Open any Vault .scad file, edit a number, press F6 to render and F7 to export a new STL.

Code

// Parametric sensor plate
w = 40;  h = 25;  t = 3;      // plate size
hole = 3.4;  inset = 4;        // M3 clearance holes

difference() {
  hull() for (x = [3, w-3], y = [3, h-3]) translate([x, y, 0]) cylinder(r=3, h=t, $fn=40);
  for (x = [inset, w-inset], y = [inset, h-inset])
    translate([x, y, -1]) cylinder(d=hole, h=t+2, $fn=30);
}

Tip: test every script on the bench before installing it in a moving machine.

Questions