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About SCADview

SCADview exists to make scripted CAD iteration fast and pleasant in Python. You write create_mesh functions using Trimesh or Manifold3D, then reload to see results immediately.

It is inspired by the excellent OpenSCAD, but uses a more common language and (IMHO) a simpler, more flexible programming model than OpenSCAD's functional style. The goal is the same: quick, repeatable, parametric modeling.

What's Included

  • A fast reload-and-preview UI for Python-based mesh scripts.
  • A small API in scadview with OpenSCAD-like helpers.
  • Support for meshes built with Trimesh or Manifold3D.

Why a separate UI

SCADview does not ship an editor because there are already many great ones. This project focuses on the iteration loop and visualization.

Trimesh already offers notebooks and a pyglet viewer, but neither matched the UI or feedback loop needed for rapid scripted CAD. SCADview was built to close that gap.

Why it is different

  • Faster preview and reload than OpenSCAD for many workflows.
  • No "fudge factor" needed to ensure boolean subtractions punch through.
  • Inspect meshes quickly for size, bounding box, and face layout.
  • A small API surface in scadview that includes OpenSCAD-like functions for familiar workflows.