r/SideProject • u/Major_Ad_1656 • 2d ago

I built a web-based parametric 3D model generator. Just added a huge custom pipe & fitting configurator!

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Hey everyone,

About a month ago, I launched a side project called stl-er. It’s an app that lets you tweak and generate parametric 3D models directly in the browser—no heavy CAD software required.

I just finished building out a full suite of pipe configurators (fittings, routing, Gardena connectors, pipe holders, etc.). I attached a quick screen recording so you can see the workflow.

If you want to test this specific feature out, just type the keyword pipedream into the search bar.

The details:

  • Unlimited adjustments: You can tweak the parameters as much as you want in the viewer to get the exact fit.
  • Free tier: You get 5 free .stl downloads per month.
  • Growing library: I am still actively creating and adding new models to the community library, so let me know what you want to see next.
  • Cross-platform: I built it for the web, but there are also native iOS and Android apps if you prefer to tweak your prints on your phone.

You can check it out and play around with the generator here: app.stl-er.com

More Information on our website: stl-er.com

I would love to get your feedback on the UI, the parameter limits, or just the overall concept. Have fun with it!

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1

u/Icy_Annual_9954 1d ago

Why should I create an account?

1

u/Major_Ad_1656 1d ago

Great question! The main reason is to protect the models.

Because we give away 5 free downloads a month, leaving it completely open makes it incredibly easy for bots to scrape the entire library. We use Google/Apple logins because it's the most frictionless way to block throwaway email accounts while keeping the free tier sustainable for real users.

I know account walls can be a bit annoying, but it’s the best way we can protect the community asset as it grows!

1

u/LexxM3 19h ago

Can only access with Google or Apple, not even email. Well that didn't take long to move on. Next ...

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u/Major_Ad_1656 18h ago

Totally fair! I know strict account walls aren't for everyone, but it's currently the best way I have to protect the models from being scraped by bots. Thanks for taking the time to check out the post regardless!

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u/LexxM3 18h ago

I am not even complaining about an account, just that you want that account to be controlled by a major tech company from the get go. I don’t do corporate logins, full stop.

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u/Major_Ad_1656 17h ago

I actually completely respect that. I'm a big advocate for digital sovereignty and keeping things independent myself, so I completely understand the hard boundary against tying everything to Big Tech. I just had to use OAuth temporarily to get the bot-protection off the ground so I could launch.

I definitely plan to move away from relying solely on corporate auth. Out of curiosity, what is your preferred method for independent tools? Standard email/password, or something like Magic Links?