Programming 3D Geometry in Snap!

Based on our previous work on the now deprecated Beetle Blocks Snap! fork, we now present a new extension for Snap! that lets users generate 3D geometry programmatically. By giving instructions to a beetle, users can create surfaces and volumes based on simpler lower-dimensional objects. These 3D shapes can then be exported and printed on a 3D printer, or further manipulated in 3D modelling software.

The fact that these volumes are generated programmatically makes this extension an ideal tool to explore algorithmic and fractal structures, but we have also found it rather convenient to generate more mundane and functional geometry, such as toy replacements or simple home improvement parts.