Built-in functions.
We saw that you do not design, but you code, in OpenSCAD. The script file simply has to make use of functions that are already defined and the graphical image pops up on the screen. Say, you want to draw a cuboid. You would only need to write “cube([2,3,4]);” and then compile the code and go to the graphical view. Preview before you render the image to play around with dimensions or colours. A cuboid of two units length, three units width and four units height appears on the screen, at the origin.
Scrolling around.
The UI of OpenSCAD comes segregated into viewing area, console window and text editor. To work around the rendered image, you can use the mouse to rotate, move or zoom in and out of an image. As you scroll, values on the screen/axis change to reflect the action you performed. You can create replicas by simply translating an earlier defined line of code; just take care of positioning, lest you end up overlapping the two. If you are beginning your first program, go into Example under Files and you will find enough codes to get acquainted with the tool.
Model using these techniques.
Create complex surfaces or objects using Boolean operators to combine simpler objects, namely, constructive solid geometry (CSG). CSG builds complex forms as intersections, unions and differences of simple primary shapes like boxes, cylinders, cones and ellipsoids. For objects of a fixed cross-sectional profile, you could use extrusion of 2D outlines to your satisfaction.
Working with files.
Feed in your 2D outlines using AutoCAD DXF files. Design parameters included in these files can also be understood by the tool. You can even choose to work with STL and OFF files, also creating 3D models in the respective formats.
Securing the help you need.
OpenSCAD also enjoys an active community support that you can reach out to. Simply navigate to Community tab on their website and you can find all details about the issues faced by users so far. You could report a new bug, or provide a solution to one already enlisted.
The website also provides ample help to a new designer. There is a cheat sheet to help you create designs as simple as a function or a circle, to projections or transformations. Tips and Tricks and FAQ sections discuss most problems you might be facing.
Many blogs by users explain how to use the tool, get familiar with advanced features and how to make simple projects. Bored to read? Log on to video tutorials—all from Documentation page.
Igniting the spark of inspiration
OpenSCAD works as a good entry-level CAD tool for designing open source hardware, such as scientific tools for research and education. The tool has also inspired or been involved with many others such as OpenJSCAD, CoffeeSCAD, Libre 3D and FABFabbers, to name a few. So, why not try it for yourself?
