OpenSCAD User Manual/First Steps/Model views

The "View" menu at the top of the OpenSCAD application window provides a variety of view options in the OpenSCAD model view window.

Surfaces
The surface view is the initial model view that appears when the model code is first rendered. You can get back to this view by choosing "View >> Surfaces".

Wireframe
Designers often choose "View >> Wireframe" when working with a particularly complex 3D model. The Wireframe view presents only a grid--the "scaffolding" beneath the surface. Think of the Eiffel Tower.

A wireframe is a visual presentation of a three dimensional or physical object. This method of modelling consists only of lines, points and curves defining the edges of an object. Using a wireframe model allows visualization of the underlying design structure of a 3D model. Since wireframe renderings are relatively simple and fast to calculate, they are often used in cases where a higher screen frame rate is needed (for instance, when working with a particularly complex 3D model, or in real-time systems that model exterior phenomena). When greater graphical detail is desired, surface textures can be added automatically after completion of the initial rendering of the wireframe. This allows the designer to quickly review changes or rotate the object to new desired views without long delays associated with more realistic rendering. The wireframe format is also well suited and widely used in programming tool paths for DNC (Direct Numerical Control) machine tools. Wireframe models are also used as the input for CAM (computer-Aided Manufacturing). Wireframe is the most abstract and least realistic of the three main CAD views.

The OpenCSG view
Choosing "View >> OpenCSG" uses the open constructive solid geometry library to generate the model view utilizing OpenGL. If the OpenCSG library is not available or the video card or drivers do not support OpenGL, then this view does not produce visible output.

The Thrown Together View
Choosing "View >> Thrown Together" overlays all the previous views together on the same screen. Importantly, objects subtracted by the  command are rendered as solid objects in green (by default).