Make a terrain walkway using CadQuery

Step-by-Step Tutorial: Creating a Walkway Using CadQuery

1. Introduction to the Project:

   • The creator wrote code for making a walkway using CadQuery.
   • The live coding session was recorded with a voiceover explaining the process.
   • The goal is to learn about CadQuery and create a walkway with cutout slots.

2. Setting Up the Boilerplate:

   • Start by pulling in boilerplate lifecycle code that includes a make lifecycle and a build lifecycle.
   • Assign the generated walkway outline to self.walkway.
   • Return the resulting shape in the build lifecycle.

3. Adjusting the Walkway Parameters:

   • Set the width of the walkway and define the cutout slots based on the documentation.
   • Derive the slot length from the size of the walkway.
   • Rotate and center the slot for better alignment.

4. Adding Cutout Slots:

   • Define the slot length offset and adjust the distance between repetitions.
   • Introduce parameters for spacing out the cutout slots.
   • Ensure the number of slots adjusts based on the walkway width.

5. Creating Tabs and Rails:

   • Make individual tabs and align them with the walkway body.
   • Translate and rotate the tabs to the desired positions.
   • Add rails with chamfers for a polished look.

6. Customizing Rail Slots:

   • Implement different rail slot shapes like boxes, arches, and points.
   • Define parameters for the rail slot types and adjust their dimensions.

7. Creating Multiple Variants:

   • Generate different bridge variants by modifying blueprint parameters.
   • Use the make and build events to create distinct instances from the same blueprint.

8. Finalizing the Walkway Design:

   • Review the two bridge variants with different dimensions.
   • Ensure the walkway design fits well with miniature models and supports.

9. Conclusion:

   • Appreciate the effort put into programming with CadQuery.
   • Experiment with different shapes, sizes, and features to enhance the walkway design.

By following these steps, you can create a customized walkway using CadQuery with unique cutout slots, tabs, rails, and rail slot shapes to suit your design preferences.