openGrid - Parametric Snap Generator

An open-source parametric snap generator for openGrid. This is the complete version of my snap model: it can recreate official-style openGrid snaps, generate self-expanding threaded snaps, openConnect snaps, multiConnect snaps, bare snap bodies, and matching screws. Most geometry parameters are exposed, making it useful for designers who want to study or modify openGrid snap geometry.

Customization guide:

1. Choose "snap_thickness". Select "Standard", "Lite", or "Lite Basic". If you need a custom thickness, enable "override_snap_thickness" and set "custom_snap_thickness". The thickness setting affects both the snap and the screw.
2. Choose "generate_snap". Use "openConnect", "Self-Expanding Threads", "Basic Threads", "multiConnect", or "Bare" if you only need the snap body geometry.
3. Choose "generate_screw". The generated screws can be installed on snaps that use "Self-Expanding Threads" or "Basic Threads".
4. Choose "snap_body_shape". Use "Directional" for vertical wall-mounted boards, or "Symmetric" for horizontal boards, often used with Underware.
5. Adjust Snap Body Settings. Use these settings to change the base shape of the snap. "snap_width" and "snap_height" change the overall footprint, while "snap_center_position_offset" moves the connector head or threaded center relative to the snap body. The corner, slant, and fillet settings affect how the snap enters the grid and how strongly it resists being pulled out in the load direction.
6. Adjust Snap Nub Settings. Use these settings to change the grip. The nubs press against the openGrid frame and create most of the holding force. The "basic_nub_x" parameters are used for symmetric-style grip geometry, while the "directional_nub_x" and "antidirect_nub_x" parameters control the stronger and weaker sides of a directional snap.
7. Adjust Snap Cut Settings. Use these settings to change how the snap flexes during insertion or removal. The bottom cuts and side cuts remove material near the gripping edges, making the snap less rigid. "cut_width_inset", "bottom_cut_x", and "side_cut_x" control the size and placement of these cuts. For directional snaps, the slant settings shape the front side so it slides into the frame more smoothly.
8. Adjust Thread Settings. Use these settings to tune the screw fit. The default thread diameter follows openGrid snap conventions. "threads_clearance" changes how tightly the screw and snap fit, "threads_pitch" changes the thread spacing, and the bevel settings affect how easily the screw starts and tightens. "threads_offset_angle" changes the final orientation of the screw or attached part when fully tightened.
9. Adjust the uninstall notch. Use "uninstall_notch_width" and the advanced "uninstall_notch_x" settings to change the removal notch. "uninstall_notch_width" is the main setting; set it to 0 to disable the notch. The advanced notch settings are mainly useful when changing snap thickness, changing the body size, or testing a new snap variant where the default notch shape no longer fits cleanly.
10. Tune self-expanding threads. If you are generating "Self-Expanding Threads", adjust "expand_distance_standard" or "expand_distance_lite" if the snap is too loose or too tight with your filament. Increase the value for a tighter hold, or decrease it if the snap is difficult to install.
11. Check the geometry view:
    • "view_cross_section" - cut the preview open from the right, back, or diagonal direction.
    • "view_snap_and_connector_overlapped" - preview the snap and connector together to check thread and head alignment.
    • "view_snap_rotated" and "view_connector_rotated" - rotate the previewed parts without changing the generated geometry.
12. Set other advanced options:
    • "thickness_text_mode" - control whether thickness markings are added.
    • "disable_snap_x" options - remove specific body features while testing.
    • "reverse_threads_entryside" - move the connector entry to the back side for experimental mounting setups.

For community designers: feel free to include these snaps and screws in your print profiles when it makes your models easier to use.

The model is open-source under the CC-BY 4.0 license. Like all the OpenSCAD models I've designed for openGrid, it can be found in this GitHub repository. Feel free to use the code; feedback and suggestions are welcome.

2026-04-06 Update: Adjusted how some dimensions are calculated, making it easier to experiment with different snap widths and heights.

2026-01-17 Major Update: openConnect is now the recommended connector option. Added folded snap and screw versions, which are stronger but take longer to print because they require a thinner layer height. Added an uninstall notch to all snaps; set "uninstall_notch_width" to 0 to disable it.