Parametric 3-Way Connector (OpenSCAD + 4 geometry variants)

A fully customizable 3-way connector for rods/dowels — ideal for modular builds, STEM projects, prototyping, construction toys, fixtures, and quick experimental joining. 

This model is part of my Modular Connectors system, designed for building flexible, scalable structures from simple elements.

The OpenSCAD source is included so you can tune dimensions to your use case:

• Rod/dowel diameter (parametric)
• Wall width / thickness
• Overall scale
• 4 geometry variants included:
  ▸ Flat bottom
  ▸ Flat bottom + ribs
  ▸ Rounded bottom
  ▸ Rounded bottom + ribs

Strength & Printability

The flat-bottom versions are structurally the strongest and also the easiest to print — great bed adhesion + no supports required.
Variants with ribs add additional stiffness and load capacity, especially useful for mechanical/structural applications and longer lever arms.

Rounded versions look visually cleaner, but may require supports depending on printer tuning.

Printing Recommendations

• Orientation: flat face on the build plate for flat variants
• Supports: none for flat variants, normal snug support for rounded bottom variants, brim for smaller connectors for better bed adhesion
• Layer height: 0.16–0.24 mm
• Perimeters: 3–4+ for toughness
• Infill: 15–40% (gyroid or grid ideal)
• Material: PLA OK, PETG recommended for high stress

If you print or modify this connector — share your makes!
I’d love to see your diameters, wall thickness experiments, multi-connector builds and real-world uses.

If you like modular functional and STEM projects, follow for upcoming models.