Openscad Beams Library

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An Openscad Library to Simplify Complex Object Creation Most 3d printed ship or airplane hulls are built using a framework of beams that define both the structural components and the external shape of the vessel. This technique is also highly effective in Openscad, making it a valuable asset for designers and builders alike. I've been utilizing this method manually for some time now, meticulously crafting each frame, positioning them precisely, and connecting them using Openscad's hull command. However, with this library, you can streamline the process significantly. All you need to do is compile a list of frames, specifying their dimensions, offset, and rotation, then pass that list to a custom module within the library. This module will automatically construct the hull shape based on your specifications. If any modifications are needed, you can make them effortlessly by adjusting the parameters in the list without having to touch any code. I've found this technique incredibly useful for creating both simple and complex objects. For instance, the example_complex02.scad model, which features a double-crossbeam connected by a longitudinal beam, was created with just 19 lines/frames for half an arm. This demonstrates how, even for highly intricate structures, minimal Openscad coding is required. All you need to do is define your frames, call the beam_multi module, and you're done. Fine-tuning is straightforward: simply modify the frame parameters without needing to engage in any complex translations or unions. For structures like this one, I typically develop the design from start to finish, frame by frame, while maintaining complete control over the process. Usage: 1. Copy beams.scad and an example scad file into the same directory. 2. Start coding with scad. 3. Begin by adjusting the frame parameters in the example file. 4. To add more frames, copy the last line in the params array, adjust height and width as needed, and increase the y-offset compared to the copied line. As a best practice, I recommend arranging frames along the y-axis. This simplifies the process: you only need to set width and height for each frame, ensuring that the y-offsets are monotonously increasing from one line to the next. Adjust the x offset to position the frames horizontally, using half the width for centered frames. For ramps between frames, use two frames with a y offset and different widths or heights. For steps between frames, use consecutive frames with different widths or heights at the same y-offset. Visit https://github.com/Stemer114/openscad_beams for the latest version and new examples.