Framework 13 Vanilla Reconstruction
Framework 13 Vanilla Reconstruction is an open-source project to reconstruct every physical part of the Framework Laptop 13 as editable parametric CAD models, enabling community members to design custom chassis modifications, replacement parts, and novel form factors. Created by community member Captain-Pumpkinhead and hosted on GitHub, it is one of the most starred Framework community hardware projects with 57 stars1.
The project uses FreeCAD rather than mesh-based tools, producing fully parametric solid models (.FCStd + .step exports) that can be edited, re-dimensioned, and remixed — essential for fixing measurement errors and adapting designs for custom builds1.
Background
Framework Computer releases official CAD files for the Framework Laptop 13 in their Framework-Laptop-13 repository (CC BY 4.0), including OpenSCAD models, 2D drawings, connector pinouts, and printable case designs2. However, these files are primarily in OpenSCAD and cover only certain components.
The Vanilla Reconstruction project was created to provide FreeCAD-native parametric models of the complete laptop chassis — not just the mainboard — so modders have a fully editable starting point for physical modifications1. It incorporates work from three upstream sources:
- FrameworkComputer/Framework-Laptop-13 — Official Framework 13 CAD and documentation2
- FrameworkComputer/ExpansionCards — Official expansion card reference designs3
- Fraoch/Framework-laptop-3D-model — Community FreeCAD model with dimensions accurate to ±0.5 mm (±0.2 mm where micrometer measurements were possible)4
Reconstructed Parts
Primary models (completed)
| Part | Files | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Bottom Cover | .FCStd, .step | Main base enclosure |
| Input Cover | .FCStd, .step | Keyboard/touchpad deck cover |
| Top Cover | .FCStd, .step | Palm rest and upper chassis |
| Bezel | .FCStd, .step | Display bezel frame |
| Expansion Cards (x4) | .FCStd, .step | Four expansion card slots |
Secondary targets (planned/not yet complete)
- Speakers
- Hinges
- Webcam module
- Antennae
- Keyboard (standalone)
- Power button (standalone)
- Touchpad (standalone)
Reference materials
The repository also includes a collection of teardown photographs and official reference images used for measurements, sourced from Framework and community teardowns (including photos by Hope Johnston, Jehan Suleman, and Nirav Patel)1.
Why FreeCAD
The project chose FreeCAD over mesh-based tools (TinkerCAD) and OpenSCAD for several reasons1:
- Open source — no proprietary toolchain dependency
- Parametric solid modeling — outputs are editable solids, not just mesh files
- Dimension editing — measurements can be corrected and adjusted without rebuilding from scratch
- STL/STEP export — models can be exported for 3D printing or CNC machining
- Accessibility — easier to learn than OpenSCAD for users unfamiliar with programmatic CAD
Related Projects
| Project | Description |
|---|---|
| Framework-Laptop-13 | Official Framework 13 OpenSCAD CAD, drawings, printable cases2 |
| Framework-laptop-3D-model | Fraoch's FreeCAD 3D model (±0.5 mm accuracy)4 |
| Framework Laptop on Printables | STL exports of Fraoch's model for 3D printing4 |
| 3D Printable Framework 13 Chassis Design | Community thread on custom 3D-printable chassis designs |
| ThinkPad Keyboard Mod | ThinkPad keyboard adaptation requiring custom chassis modifications |
Technical Details
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| License | CC BY 4.0 |
| CAD format | FreeCAD (.FCStd) + STEP (.step) |
| Contributors | 6 (Captain-Pumpkinhead, eclecticc, CRImier, anoadragon453, imnotjames, jyancat) |
| Last active | September 2023 |
| Forked from | FrameworkComputer/Framework-Laptop-13 |