{"categories":[{"label":"Scientific/Engineering","url":"https://skillfed.io/packages/category/scientific-engineering/4"}],"enrichment":{"capability":"build123d is a Python CAD framework for creating 2D and 3D models using boundary representation geometry, built on the Open Cascade kernel, with export to standard formats like STEP and STL.","skillfed_tags":["cad-as-code","3d-modeling","manufacturing"],"use_cases":["Parametric part design for 3D printing: define dimensions as variables and regenerate models with different parameters.","Laser cutting layouts: import SVG designs, convert to 2D faces, and export as DXF or STEP for cutting machines.","CNC toolpath preparation: model complex geometries with fillets and chamfers, then export STEP for CAM software.","Reusable component libraries: subclass geometry objects to create custom parametric parts (e.g., custom fasteners, brackets).","Design automation: generate arrays of parts with GridLocations and conditional logic for batch manufacturing.","Interoperability workflows: import STEP assemblies, modify specific components, and export back to FreeCAD or SolidWorks."],"what_it_does":"build123d is a Python library for writing CAD models as code using boundary representation (BREP) geometry. It wraps the Open Cascade geometric kernel and provides a clean, Pythonic interface for constructing 2D and 3D shapes through two complementary paradigms: Algebra Mode (stateless, operator-driven) and Builder Mode (state-tracked, context-aware). Both modes support creating edges, wires, faces, sketches, and solids through explicit geometry classes and algebraic operations like addition and subtraction, with selectors for filtering shapes by properties like area, length, or orientation.\n\nThe library is designed for manufacturing workflows\u20143D printing, CNC machining, laser cutting\u2014and supports importing and exporting standard formats (SVG, STEP, STL). It emphasizes clean, maintainable code with minimal internal state, rich type hints, and extensibility through subclassing. The 17 runtime dependencies include numpy, scipy, and scikit-learn for numerical operations, plus specialized packages like ezdxf for DXF interchange and lib3mf for 3MF format support.","worth_installing":"Yes. build123d is actively maintained, has no known vulnerabilities, installs with low friction, and carries a permissive Apache-2.0 license. It is well-suited for developers who want to define CAD models programmatically rather than through a GUI. The large dependency footprint (17 packages) is typical for scientific Python and not a barrier. Start with the documentation and cheat sheet if you are new to BREP modeling or parametric CAD."},"id":"build123d","links":{"html":"https://skillfed.io/packages/build123d","md":"https://skillfed.io/packages/build123d.md","pypi":"https://pypi.org/project/build123d/"},"maintenance":{"status":"active"},"meta":{"latest_release":"2026-07-02","license_spdx":null,"license_treatment":"permissive","name":"build123d","python_support":"supports_current","summary":"A python CAD programming library"},"popularity":{"monthly_downloads":374648,"position":7144,"tier":"top_15000"},"security":{"n_vulnerabilities":0},"version":"0.11.1"}