January 17, 2026
Description
A new connector system, designed for openGrid. I asked David's permission to use the name "openConnect" and hope this can become the official connector system for openGrid. All snaps and screws are already provided in the print profiles. The Customizer here is used to generate a plate of openConnect slots (both default, negative and vase mode version), which can then be attached to your own models in CAD.
Advantages of openConnect vs MultiConnect:
Print Orientation: The slots can be printed on their sides. This isn't possible with MultiConnect, as its circular shape results in overhangs greater than 45 degrees. Supporting more printing orientations opens up new design possibilities and significantly increases strength for certain models. You can see this in the hook and shelf generators.
Size: It is smaller—17 x 10.6mm compared to MultiConnect's 20 x 20mm. This allows each slot to fit entirely within a single 28mm openGrid tile. MultiConnect is too large for this, which often results in only the topmost slot being weight-bearing.
Depth: It is thinner—2.6mm vs. MultiConnect's 4mm. Aside from saving filament and space, this keeps the center of mass closer to the wall, reducing leverage on the mount. Combined with having a slot in every tile, openConnect can be stronger than MultiConnect in practical use, despite being less bulky.
Vase Mode: There is a slot variant specifically designed for vase mode. You can check out the vase mode container generator for an example.
Backward Compatibility: It is backwards compatible with MultiConnect. For example, a MultiConnect round holder generated here can be attached to openConnect connectors. While the geometry is different and the locking mechanism isn't utilized, it is sufficient for many use cases and should make the transition easier.
I believe it is both appropriate and helpful for openGrid to have its own connector system. MultiConnect was originally designed for Multiboard (which is where the name "Multi" comes from). While openGrid supports MultiConnect, it uses a different tile size (28mm vs. 25mm), meaning parts designed for one system are incompatible with the other. This is confusing for beginners who often print parts they cannot use. By using "openConnect," we can ensure that any model with that name is guaranteed to work with openGrid.
Also, for community designers: if you want to include any of my snaps or screws in your print profiles to make it easier for users, please feel free to do so.
The openConnect system is open-source under the CC-BY license. The main connector parts have been created in both Fusion 360 and OpenSCAD. I uploaded the .f3d, .step, and .scad files.
Changes since Release:
Adjust dimensions to make the alignment to openGrid boards more accurate.
Make the slot compatible with more nozzle sizes by adding minimum bridge width/bottom thickness.
Make the locking mechanism vertically symmetric (i.e. the top of the locking nub is no longer flat).
Revamp vase slots to ensure more consistent linewidth during printing.
These changes are minor and don't break backward compatiblity. There is no need to reprint parts if you don't wish.
Below are models I have designed for openConnect:
Sturdy hook generator
Sturdy shelf generator
Vase mode container generator
These models are open-source under the CC-BY-SA license. Like all OpenSCAD models I've designed for openGrid, they can be found in this GitHub repository. Feel free to use the code; any feedback or suggestions are welcome.
License:
BY
mitufy
