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About OpenSCAD

OpenSCAD support in Printago lets you create dynamic, customizable 3D models that respond to customer input without touching code. Let's explore how it works!

What is OpenSCAD?​

OpenSCAD is a programming language for creating parametric 3D models. Instead of manually sculpting models, you write code that generates them. With Printago's native OpenSCAD support, you can:

  • Create dynamic, customizable models
  • Automate model scaling and sizing
  • Add personalization options such as text engravings.
  • Modify existing STL files
  • Define color parametrically using Printago's ColorSCAD!

Editing OpenSCAD Files​

To create and edit OpenSCAD files, download OpenSCAD. Be sure to download one of the Development Snapsnot versions for your computer.

OpenSCAD IDE

If you're new to OpenSCAD, this documentation will not serve as a tutorial. However, you will find a few example snippets and best practices for how to use .scad files in Printago.

Importing Files​

Printago supports the use and import commands in OpenSCAD. You may use fonts or other OpenSCAD libraries, or import STLs, SVG, or DXF files.

use <ArianaVioleta.ttf>     // fonts
use <text_tools.scad>       // OpenSCAD library
import("iphone16_case.stl") // STL Geometry
import("customer_logo.dxf")  // Flat-Geometry import (SVG works too)
warning

Do not use variables as import or use arguments. The Printago OpenSCAD parser will not find these files.

filename = "customer_logo.dxf";  
import(filename);

Dynamic Models​

Dynamic models in Printago use OpenSCAD parameters to create variations of your 3D models automatically.

Parameter Types​

You can use several types of parameters in your OpenSCAD models. Initial values of each parameter will be used as the default parameter value in Printago.

Text: For names, messages, or identifiers

input_text_1 = "Custom";

Numbers: For dimensions and measurements

size_in_inches = 8.0;

Boolean: Presented as a checkbox in Printago

size_text_equal = false;

Selection: Can be text or Numbers and presented as a dropdown selection in Printago. Note that the comment following the variable declaration drives the values of the dropdown.

part_output = part1; //[part1, part2, part3, part4]
info

Printago will not import variables below the first set of curly braces 

use <Arial.ttf>
variable1 = "Text";
{ }
private_variable = "not parsed";

Font Support​

Printago supports TTF and OTF fonts.

Parameter Dependencies​

You can create parameters that influence each other:

handle_type = "curved"; // [curved, straight, none]
handle_size = (handle_type == "none") ? 0 : 25; // Handle size in mm

Conditional Features​

Create features that appear based on parameter selection:

if (include_dividers) {
    // Code to create dividers
    for (i = [0:num_dividers-1]) {
        translate([i * width/num_dividers, 0, 0])
            cube([2, depth, height]);
    }
}

Best Practices​

Modular Design​

  • Break complex models into separate functional modules - this makes troubleshooting easier and allows for code reuse across projects. For example, split a custom box design into lid, base, and hinge modules
  • Create reusable components for common elements like screw holes, mounting brackets, or text engravings. Store these in separate files and import them when needed
  • Keep parameter definitions organized at the top of your files in clear sections (dimensions, features, customization options). This makes it easier to modify your designs
  • Use clear, descriptive names for modules and variables that indicate their purpose - prefer wall_thickness over wt and create_mounting_holes() over holes()

Performance Optimization​

  • Use appropriate $fn values: low (20-30) during development for quick previews, higher (60-180) for production quality. Avoid values over 180 unless necessary
  • Minimize boolean operations in complex designs - each difference() and union() adds computational overhead. Consider combining shapes where possible
  • Cache expensive calculations in variables rather than repeating them. For example, store complex trigonometric calculations you'll use multiple times
  • Test designs across their full parameter ranges to ensure they render correctly at all valid sizes and configurations

Error Handling​

  • Set min/max constraints for numeric parameters using assert() to prevent impossible dimensions or broken geometry. For example, ensure wall thickness is always greater than printer nozzle size
  • Provide sensible default values that work for most common use cases.
  • Validate text input lengths and characters to prevent overflow or rendering issues. Consider font size and available space
  • Add assertions to catch invalid parameter combinations that could break the model, like when hole diameter exceeds part width

Common Use Cases​

Product Customization​

  • Name engravings and custom text with proper font scaling, kerning, and depth control based on text length
  • Adjustable dimensions that maintain proper proportions and structural integrity across size ranges
  • Optional features that can be toggled on/off while ensuring the base model remains printable
  • Custom logos and branding elements with proper depth and detail preservation at various scales

Batch Production​

  • Sequential serial numbers with customizable formats, prefixes
  • Automated date stamps in various formats (YYYY-MM-DD, batch codes, etc.)
  • Unique identifiers and tracking codes that follow industry standards (UPC, EAN, etc.)
  • QR codes and barcodes optimized for 3D printing with proper relief and size constraints
  • Batch numbers and production codes that integrate with your inventory management system

Design Variants​

  • Multiple color options with proper wall thicknesses for multi-material printing
  • Style variations from single code base while maintaining consistent quality and printability
  • Configurable size ranges that automatically adjust internal structures and support requirements
  • Material-specific adjustments like clearances for different filament shrinkage rates

Troubleshooting​

Rendering Issues​

Common rendering problems can be resolved by:

  • Checking syntax errors in your code using OpenSCAD's built-in validator
  • Verifying parameter types match expectations (numbers for dimensions, strings for text)
  • Validating file paths for imported components relative to your project structure

Performance Problems​

If your design is rendering slowly:

  • Reduce geometric complexity by simplifying curved surfaces where possible
  • Optimize boolean operations by combining them or rethinking the construction method
  • Cache repeated calculations in variables instead of recalculating
  • Monitor memory usage during rendering and break up large designs
  • Consider breaking into smaller modules that can be rendered independently

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OpenSCAD Resources​