Programming with OpenSCAD: A Beginner's Guide to Coding 3D-Printable Objects - Softcover

Justin Gohde; Marius Kintel

Softcover

ISBN 10: 159327954X ISBN 13: 9781593279547

Publisher: No Starch Press, 2021

Synopsis

Programming with OpenSCAD is a STEM-focused, learn-to-code book for beginners that introduces core computational thinking concepts through the design of 3D-printable objects. Readers will develop coding skills as they build increasingly complex 3D models and print them into fun games, puzzles, and more.

OpenSCAD is free, open-source 3D modeling software with an easy-to-use programming interface that’s great for beginners because it lets you quickly view the results of your code. This book channels the platform’s user-friendliness into a STEM-focused, learn-to-code book that will teach you computational thinking and essential programming skills as you design multi-dimensional models with the OpenSCAD language.

Co-authored by the software’s primary creator, Marius Kintel, Programming with OpenSCAD offers clear, visual explanations and simple instructions for coding increasingly complex, 3D-printable objects. You’ll make and print fun games, cool puzzles and other mementos as your understanding of each concept is developed step-by-step, chapter by chapter. In addition, Design Time exercises throughout the book reinforce essential lessons, so you can practice your new programming skills and showcase the results as tangible, printed objects.

You’ll learn:

• OpenSCAD coding fundamentals, such as variables, loops, decisions, modules, debugging, RGB Colorspace, and libraries
• Basics of computational thinking (CT), including decomposition, parametric design, abstraction, and pattern recognition
• How to implement algorithms for coding and printing virtual 3D models
• 3D design concepts like Boolean operators, orthogonal views, XYZ axis, and constructing complex shapes
• STEAM coding practices that reinforce math, engineering, CT, and programming skills

Whether you’re a middle school student, STEM teacher, artist, or adult learner, this book will show you how to make sophisticated 3D projects that will, in turn, make you a real programmer.

About this title

About the Author

Justin Gohde has been teaching math and Computer Science for 19 years, and is currently the Department Head of Computer Science at Trinity School, where he runs a Design Lab with 3D printers, a laser cutter, microcontrollers, and various other tools for CS, Engineering, and Robotics.

Marius Kintel is a software engineer with 22 years professional experience, mostly with 3D visualization. He is currently the primary author and maintainer of OpenSCAD.

Edition details

• Publisher: No Starch Press
• Publication date: 2021
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 159327954X
• ISBN 13: 9781593279547
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 206