Parametric Box Generator

How to Use the Parametric Box Generator

This Parametric Box Generator provides a professional solution for creating custom-sized 3D printed containers. It eliminates the need for external assembly hardware by allowing users to define every structural detail from mechanical hinges to complex surface textures through a unified set of parameters.

1. Fundamental Dimensions and Printer Calibration

The Parametric Box Generator ensures dimensional accuracy for your Custom Sized Organizer by aligning model parameters with your hardware setup.

• Measurement Mode (dimensions_for): Choose between inside (to fit specific objects) or outside (to fit a specific shelf space).
• Core Dimensions (X, Y, Z): Define the primary length, width, and height in millimeters.
• Wall Thickness (wallthickness): Sets the primary shell thickness. Note that exterior_type textures may further increase this via the tex_depth_wallthickness_factor.
• Printer Specs: Input your nozzle_diameter (line width) and layer_height to ensure the Parametric Box Generator calculates mechanical clearances correctly.
• Corner Finishing: Use outer_chamfer, inner_chamfer, outer_rounding, and inner_rounding to remove sharp edges. Use overrider_automatic_inner_rounding for manual control over interior curves.

2. Mechanical Hinges and Print-in-Place Systems

This Parametric Box Generator features a versatile hinge_type system designed for high durability.

• Hinge Logic: Choose from snap (separable), pin (uses filament), or print in place (integrated). Toggle the lid entirely with the lid parameter.
• General Hinge Settings: Fine-tune the mechanical joint with barrel_diameter, max_barrel_length, barrel_chamfer, and barrel_tolerance. Use extra_clearance to increase the maximum rotation angle.
• Print-in-Place (PiP) Hinge: Adjust pip_barrel_outset and pip_body_lid_tolerance for smooth integrated movement.
• Pin Hinge Specifics: Set dpin (typically 1.75mm or 2.2mm filament), pin_floppiness, and pin_insert_direction.
• Snap Hinge Specifics: Use snap_hinge_tolerance to control the friction of the snap-on joint.

3. No-Hardware Latch Box and Closure Mechanisms

Secure the contents of your Parametric Box Generator output using specialized closure_type settings.

• No-Hardware Latch Box: Define a robust lock with latch_amount, latch_gap, latch_width, latch_length, and latch_thickness. Precision is controlled via latch_tolerance, latch_joint_tolerance, and latch_clamp_strength.
• Magnetic Closure: Select cylinder or box magnets via magnet_type. Configure the array with cylinder_diameter, box_height, box_length, magnet_tolerance, and layers_over_magnet. Use magnet_pause_helper to enable mid-print embedding.
• Snap Rim: Configure a friction-fit lid with snap_rim_depth, snap_rim_height_factor, and snap_rim_tolerance. Toggle invert_snap_rim to change which side holds the lip.
• Standard Rim: For non-locking lids, use rim, rim_height, rim_offset, and rim_tolerance.

4. Gridfinity Compatible Storage and Internal Dividers

Integrate your Parametric Box Generator into the wider organization ecosystem.

• Gridfinity Integration: Toggle gridfinity_support to add standardized slots. Control the footprint with units_X and units_Y, and height with units_Z.
• Base Options: Add base_magnets with parameters like base_magnet_diameter and base_magnet_height. Use add_prying_notch for easier magnet removal.
• Internal Dividers: Enable dividers and set regular_spaced_X_divider and regular_spaced_Y_divider counts. Control the internal layout with divider_Z_height, divider_thickness, divider_rounding, and divider_chamfer.

5. Lid Ergonomics and Geometry

Customizing the top of your Parametric Box Generator output enhances usability.

• Lid Configuration: Set the lid_angle (0-90), hinge_height_offset, and fine-tune the seating with hinge_inset and lip_inset.
• Handle Support: Enable lid_handle and adjust lid_handle_alignment, lid_handle_outset, lid_handle_thickness, and lid_handle_angle.
• Finger Grooves: Enable lid_groove for a low-profile grip, adjusting lid_groove_depth, lid_groove_height, and lid_groove_width_factor.

6. Gyroid Texture Box and Advanced Shells

The Parametric Box Generator supports complex visual styles through the exterior_type parameter.

• Textured Shells: Select texture_pattern (e.g., stripes, hexagon, wave, noise) and adjust texture_scale, tex_depth, and rotate_texture.
• Gyroid Texture Box / Complex Patterns: Choose weave, hex_scaffold, or gyroid via complex_pattern. Control the structural density with complex_scale, scaffold_thickness, and extra_wall.
• Resolution Control: Global resolution ($fn) and complex_resolution determine the detail level and generation time of the Gyroid Texture Box.