This article explains the main terms used in the HoleSnap editor.
Canvas #
The canvas is the working area of the panel. It defines the width and height of the design.
Most users should treat the canvas size as the panel size unless the exported file will be combined with other geometry in CAD later.
Hole Shape #
The hole shape is the geometry repeated across the panel.
Examples:
- Round
- Rectangle
- Polygon
- Diamond
- Star
- Ring
- Custom shape
Shape settings can include size, aspect ratio, corner radius, rotation, and imported path data.
Layout #
The layout controls where holes are placed.
Common layout ideas:
- Grid: holes aligned in rows and columns.
- Staggered: every other row is offset.
- Hex-style: holes are packed in a more efficient repeated structure.
- Random: holes are distributed with less visible repetition.
- Spiral, radial, or concentric: holes follow circular structure.
Layout affects open area, visual rhythm, fabrication complexity, and file size.
Spacing #
Spacing is the distance between repeated holes or hole centers, depending on the selected layout.
Smaller spacing creates a denser pattern. Larger spacing creates a more open visual field with more material between holes.
Always check bridge width after changing spacing.
Open Area #
Open area is the percentage of the panel that is cut away or open.
Higher open area can improve airflow, light transmission, or visibility. It can also reduce strength and increase fabrication demands.
Lower open area leaves more material, but may reduce airflow or visibility.
Bridge Width #
Bridge width is the material left between neighboring holes or between holes and nearby edges.
Small bridge width can cause weak parts, heat distortion, cutting problems, or fabrication rejection. The acceptable minimum depends on material, thickness, hole shape, and fabrication method.
Use the minimum bridge value as a design warning, then confirm manufacturability with your fabricator or CAD/CAM process.
Boundary #
A boundary controls where the pattern is allowed to appear.
Boundary types include:
- Rectangle
- Circle
- Custom imported or drawn outline
The boundary can be used to keep holes inside a specific panel shape or decorative area.
Trim #
Trim cuts hole geometry at the boundary.
Use Trim when partial holes at the edge are acceptable or desired.
Hide #
Hide removes holes outside the boundary without cutting partial holes.
Use Hide when you only want complete holes inside the boundary.
Gradient #
A gradient changes pattern properties across the panel.
Gradient controls may affect:
- Hole size
- Rotation angle
- Shape transition
- Density
Use gradients for panels that need visual flow, acoustic variation, airflow changes, or decorative transitions.
Displacement #
Displacement moves hole positions in a structured way.
Examples include:
- Wave
- Swirl
- Twist
Use displacement for expressive or decorative patterns after the basic layout is working.
Perturbation #
Perturbation adds controlled randomness.
It can vary:
- Position
- Size
- Angle
The seed controls repeatability. The same seed should produce the same random-looking result for the same settings.
Export #
Export turns the current design into a file.
Common export formats:
- SVG: vector graphics and lightweight editing.
- DXF: CAD/CAM workflows.
- PNG: image preview or documentation.
- STP/STEP: 3D CAD handoff.
Project #
A project is a saved HoleSnap design state. It keeps your editor settings so you can reopen or continue the design later.
Local projects are stored in the browser. Cloud project behavior depends on account and plan access.
Template #
A template is a reusable starting point. It can help you begin from an existing style instead of building the design from scratch.
