Hi Jan,
SolidWorks is a powerful tool for 3D modeling, especially for precision work, and I can understand why you’d compare it with OpenSCAD.
The difference with OpenSCAD is that it uses a **code-based** approach to create models.
So instead of using a visual interface to drag, click, and adjust objects (as in SolidWorks), you directly type out the dimensions and properties in text form.
For example, in OpenSCAD, if you wanted to create two cubes and position one on top of the other, you might write:
===cube([10, 20, 5]); // This creates a 10x20x5 cube
translate([0, 0, 5]) // This moves the next object up 5 units to sit on top of the first cube
cube([10, 20, 5]); // This creates another 10x20x5 cube at the new position===
Here, we’ve created two identical cubes, one stacked neatly on top of the other. The translate([0, 0, 5]) command moves the second cube upward by 5mm so it sits directly above the first one.
This way, if you need to modify the height of the cubes later, you can easily adjust the numbers in the code.
For instance, if you want them to be 15mm tall instead of 5mm, you simply change the dimensions in one place and everything adjusts automatically.
This becomes even more powerful when you’re using variables instead of hardcoding numbers.
SolidWorks and OpenSCAD achieve the same end goal (creating 3D models) but with very different workflows.
OpenSCAD is great for people who enjoy working with exact numbers in code, while SolidWorks offers a more hands-on, visual design process.
I hope this explains the distinction a bit better! Let me know if you have any more questions.Best regards,Logan
On Fri, Sep 20, 2024 at 5:38 PM Jan Servaites <[email protected]> wrote:
Login,
Okay, more word salad: "This approach is great for people who prefer precision and repeatability, as you can easily tweak numbers in the code to adjust your designs."
That says nothing, in my opinion.
I have learned Solidworks 2009 since 2009 and if you want precision, try Solidworks.....I guess?
Jan N8CBX
On 9/20/2024 5:22 PM, Logan Rickert wrote:
Hi Jan,
Let me hopefully clarify:
OpenSCAD is both a programming language and a 3D modeling tool. While it may sound unusual, OpenSCAD uses code to create 3D objects. Instead of dragging shapes around like in other modeling software, you write commands to define objects and how they should look.
For example, if you wanted to create a 3D cube, you would write a simple command in OpenSCAD, like this:
cube([2, 2, 2]);
This approach is great for people who prefer precision and repeatability, as you can easily tweak numbers in the code to adjust your designs.
During the workshop, Dave will walk us through this process step by step, helping us discover how it works in a hands-on way, even if you’re not familiar with programming. Hope this clears things up!
Best regards,Logan
On Fri, Sep 20, 2024 at 5:15 PM Jan Servaites <[email protected]> wrote:
"OpenSCAD is a Functional programming language, and as such, variables are bound to expressions and
keep a single value during their entire lifetime (immutability). That is to say, variables are set at compile time
and cannot be modified during run time. Attempting to reassign variable values throws a Warning Message."
This sounds like a bunch of word salad...What does this mean, if anything????!!!!! He said it's a "programming language"...and you say it's a "3D Modelling". Those are completely two different applications. Seriously, I wish you people talk in normal language and get the facts straighten out!!!!!!!
Jan N8CBX______________________________________________________________
On 9/20/2024 4:58 PM, Mark Erbaugh wrote:
Reminder, tomorrow Saturday, September 21, 2024 will be the first meeting of our 3D Modelling Workshop. Dave Kender will present a session on OpenSCAD. His approach will follow a hands-on discovery methodology with instruction, demonstrations, and over-the-shoulder personal tutoring. An Overview and Topics Outline attached for future reference. See the Outline for a link to the OpenSCAD download site.
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