Our findings show that although Python for FreeCAD is more arduous to learn, its advantages counterbalance the initial difficulties. We have created a parametric open source hardware design to compare these tools. In this work we analyze OpenSCAD and compare it with FreeCAD Python scripts. This is an important deficiency because it is key to share the design in the most accessible formats with no information loss.

However, OpenSCAD lacks the ability to export to standard parametric formats thus, the parametric dimensional information of the model is lost. OpenSCAD is the most widely used scripting tool for parametric modeling of open source labware. Parametric design using a solid modeling programming language allows customization and provides a source file for the design. In addition, parametric modeling is encouraged in order to facilitate customization for other experiments. Open source hardware for scientific equipment needs to provide source files and enough documentation to allow the study, replication and modification of the design.

Freecad modeling