Best tool to generate STL (3-D geometry file) algorithmically?
3d, cad, geometry, modeling, python
Solution
Have you considered using Blender?
It has a Python API, and can also be used in headless mode (without a GUI) by using `blender --python script.py`.
It also has an STL import/export plugin (make sure to enable it in `Preferences -> Addons` if you decide to try it). I'd also suggest to look at its source code if you decide to roll your own.
Problem
I have a simple project in mind that would take a long list of triplets as input (coordinates describing a path in 3 dimensions), and generates an STL file as output. (STL is a file format that describes 3-D surface geometry for use in CAD and 3-D printing applications.) I'm a scientist, not a developer, and I'm capable with Python, so I can handle parsing an input text file if needed. What I am looking for is a command line utility, library, or simple programming language that can automate a few simple CAD tasks (e.g. extrude a cross section along a path) to create a true 3-D surface for STL output. Thanks.