CodeCAD - Parametric CAD with Lua

CodeCAD is a modern, code-driven CAD system designed for makers, engineers, and researchers who want simplicity, power, and reproducibility in 3D modeling.

Instead of clicking through menus, you describe your parts in clean Lua code. Models live in plain text, can be versioned with Git, and preview instantly in the built-in viewer.

Think of CodeCAD as a catalyst: a tool that transforms your ideas into real-world objects — whether for 3D printing, woodworking, metalworking, or larger construction projects. Its workflow is designed to be as frictionless and direct as possible.

Why CodeCAD?

• ✨ Simplicity first – Minimal API, easy to learn. A box in just one line of code.
• ⚡ Frictionless workflow – Edit Lua → see your model update live.
• 🛠️ Industrial kernel – Built on OpenCascade (OCCT), a proven geometry engine for serious CAD.
• 💾 Reproducible – Everything is text-based and versionable. Git is your history of design.
• 🎯 Developer-friendly – If you can program, you can model. Treat CAD like software engineering.
• 📝 Editor freedom – Works great in any text editor; optimized for neovim.

Why Lua?

• 🐚 Small, clean, embeddable scripting language.
• 📦 No dependencies, works everywhere.
• 🧩 Concise enough to act like a DSL, but still a real programming language.

With Lua, you describe parts with code that is easy to read, easy to share, and easy to maintain.

🚀 Code your designs. Print your ideas.

Who is CodeCAD for?

• 🧑‍🔧 Makers – Design printable parts and assemblies faster.
• 🏭 Engineers – Prototype mechanisms, gears, bolts, and housings parametrically.
• 🔬 Researchers – Explore geometry and manufacturing processes in a programmable, reproducible way.
• 🔬 Software developers – Apply software engineering mindset to CAD modeling.

💡 With CodeCAD, you’re not just designing parts – you’re writing the blueprint of your ideas.