An idea for community discussion
Could we build a free community library of original brick parts designed specifically for FDM printing?
This is currently only an idea. Creating a reliable shared standard would require considerable work, so I believe it should be discussed before anyone begins such a large project.
I would first like to understand whether people would find the library useful, what problems we would need to solve and whether anyone would be interested in contributing or testing parts.
Many existing digital part libraries were created primarily for digital building and rendering. Their models are not necessarily adapted for physical FDM printing and may not include the clearances required for printed connections.
Simply converting a digital model into an STL file does not automatically make it ready to print. BrickForge Open Parts would focus on shared printable dimensions, clearances, connection standards and real testing.
For my own projects, I have created more than 150 printable part files. They are not perfect, but they are designed to work with the original commercially produced parts and with one another. I have printed and used them in complete physical builds.
I am still learning 3D modelling and do not consider myself an expert. Some of my models can certainly be improved. However, this work has already given me practical experience with dimensions, clearances, print orientation and fitting problems.
It has shown me that a shared community library may be possible—but only if contributors follow the same basic standards.
My idea is to follow the same approach as the BrickForge desktop app. For each part in a set, BrickForge would first look for a printable model in our community library. If one is not available, it would convert the part from the LDraw library instead.
At first, this would mean using a mix of community models and converted LDraw parts. Users would be able to see where each part came from and which ones still need a model designed for FDM printing. Anyone interested could help create and test those missing models for the library.
We would not need a complete library to get started. If enough people take part, it could gradually grow to cover the parts needed for most sets, with LDraw conversion filling the remaining gaps.
Printers, nozzles, materials and slicer settings can all change the final dimensions of a printed part. No library can guarantee exactly the same fit on every machine.
One possible solution is a small calibration kit containing several test connections with slightly different clearances. Users could print it first, select the best fit and calibrate their printer or slicer to the existing library standard.
The project would accept only models created by their contributors or files that can legally be modified and redistributed. Models extracted from closed applications, commercial libraries or other websites should not be submitted unless their licence clearly permits it.
Community polls
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Would you use the library? What should be solved before work begins? Your feedback will help determine whether the idea should move forward.
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