OpenVertex

Description

Given a 3D wireframe model in OBJ, STL, OFF, or OM format, generate 3D models for unique connectors at every vertex, as well as length for every edge.

Installation

1. Install OpenSCAD Software.

2. Install OpenMesh and SolidPython with the following command,

   $ brew install open-mesh rapidjson
   $ pip install solidpython
   $ ln -s /Applications/OpenSCAD.app/Contents/MacOS/OpenSCAD openscad

3. (Optional) Compile openmesh/calc_edge_lengths.cpp and openmesh/calc_edge_lengths.cpp to generate executables and put them in scripts folder.

4. (Optional) Download the mesh file and generated connector models.

Usage

1. Generate connector models with the following commands, find output models at scripts/stl/conn*.stl. (Skip this if you have already downloaded the connector models in Step 4 of Installation)

   $ cd scrips
   $ ./run.sh ../mesh/icosahedron.obj

2. Import connector models in slicer software Cura 15.04, rotate the models so that the sphere and the side with the most number of connections sit on the platform. Important: Remember the positions of model placement. For example, if you are printing 8 pieces of connectors at a time, place conn0.stl to conn3.stl in the first row, and conn4.stl to conn7.stl in the second row is a good solution. It's also easier to remove the connectors as one piece if they are placed near each other, since the raft (base layers) of each connector will be connected together.

3. Load Cura profile cura/profile.ini using File - Open Profile...

4. Generate G-Code File - Save GCode... to SD card and print