OpenSCAD Tutorial
A downloadable tool
Unlike most free software used for creating 3D models (such as the well-known application Blender), OpenSCAD does not focus on the artistic side of 3D modeling but instead specializes in CAD. Therefore, it might be an excellent tool if you're looking to create 3D mechanical parts, but it may not align with your expectations if you're interested in computer-animated films. OpenSCAD is not an interactive modeling tool. Instead, objects are described in a script file, and the 3D model is rendered from this script file, functioning like a 3D interpreter. This approach gives designers complete control over the modeling process, allowing for easy modifications at any stage, even defining configuration parameters for the design.
OpenSCAD includes two primary modeling techniques: constructive solid geometry (CSG) and extrusion of 2D outlines. In addition to 2D path outputs, it can also read design parameters from DXF files. Besides DXF file support, OpenSCAD can read and create 3D models in STL and OFF file formats.
OpenSCAD uses OpenCSG and CGAL, two standard C++ libraries, to perform CAD operations. It primarily relies on solid geometry imaging techniques and OpenGL rendering to generate CAD models. OpenCSG is a C++ library for constructive solid geometry using OpenGL for rendering, compatible with most hardware on Windows and Linux systems. CGAL, an open-source project, aims to provide convenient, efficient, and reliable geometric operations in the form of a C++ library. CGAL is used in various fields requiring geometric computation, such as computer graphics, scientific visualization, computer-aided design and modeling, geographic information systems, and molecular biology.
OpenSCAD can be used for making game assets by leveraging its capabilities in parametric and algorithmic 3D modeling. For example: https://willhart.io/post/game-assets-using-openscad
Download
Install instructions
This collection of materials includes:
1. OpenSCAD Tutorials (Self-Made)
These are five tutorials I created during my learning process with OpenSCAD, covering almost all of OpenSCAD's syntax.
2. Introduction and Usage of OpenSCAD
This document provides a basic introduction to OpenSCAD, including installation instructions and an overview of its interface. It can help beginners get started with OpenSCAD.
3. Related Links
This document lists several links for learning OpenSCAD, most of which are foreign websites. Unfortunately, there is a scarcity of resources on OpenSCAD.
4. Translated OpenSCAD Tutorials
This document is a Chinese translation of the official OpenSCAD tutorials, translated by a netizen. While the quality is not ideal, it can still be helpful when paired with the official tutorials.
5. Blog Posts
This section includes both Chinese and English blogs. The English blogs are tutorials written by foreign experts and are comparable to the official tutorials, though the images cannot be downloaded. The Chinese blogs feature examples of models created using OpenSCAD. For learning 3D modeling, it's beneficial to study and imitate others' models. Highly recommended is the article “【打印虎】Using OpenSCAD to Modify the Design of RepRap Prusa i3 3D Printer Parts.” Other posts include concepts about the Minkowski sum and convex hull.
6. OpenSCAD Script Tools
This is a program designed to assist in writing OpenSCAD scripts, eliminating the need to memorize commands. You only need to adjust the parameters.
7. OpenSCAD Models
This document provides several OpenSCAD models.
