SketchUp
SketchUp is an innovative 3-D CAD modelling software application. As well as functioning as a stand alone design tool, it also works well as a companion to a 'proper' CAD drafting programs such as IntelliCAD, AutoCAD or dCAD, because 2-D CAD drawings can be imported into SketchUp and lofted (objects pulled up in the Z direction) to form 3-D models. SketchUp is designed to let you create models of your intended design in a 3-D environment an intuitive way. The program was developed originally by a group of professionals from the architecture and engineering disciplines so it is strong in those areas, but its use is not restricted to those fields.
The figures below show some typical SketchUp images.
Dynamic viewing
SketchUp provides some innovative tools for visualizing the design. It is possible to cast shadows, take an X-RAY view so you can look into a design and quickly orbit the model to view it from different directions.
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| An X-Ray view of the rear of the house and a front view (also an X-ray view). | |
Click here to play a movie which introduces SketchUp. We use the tool to examine a model of a two story house.
Third party rendering
The figure below shows a dsign for the rear of a dwelling constructed entirely in SketchUp and rendered using a third party tool.
We provide training in the use of SketchUp in Adelaide and Canberra. Although wide ranging, our course focuses on the need to integrate the use of your CAD software such as AutoCAD, IntelliCAD or MicroStation with SketchUp.
It is possible to import CAD drawings in the DWG or DXF format into The SketchUp environment and use the tools in SketchUp to communicate your design ideas in both 2D and 3D. You do need to purchase the professional version of SketchUp if that's waht you want to do.
More on SketchUp
Click here for an article on the relationship between SketchUp and CAD software such as MicroStation and AutoCAD and here for an article on importing and exporting CAD models to SketchUp.
Cost of courses
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Online learning via broadband - fast Internet connection required.
The most cost effective and popular option is to take a course by online learning at http://www.softwaretutor.designcad.com.au. The cost of this course is $AUD75.00 for many hours of high quality training. These broadband learning courses feature rapid enrolment, multi media materials, online forums, multi choice reviews, questionnaires, submission of assignments etc. This is an enhanced learning experience at an affordable price. You will be supported via a messaging system within the course and often get real time answers to questions.
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One-on-one training (Adelaide or Canberra - in our offices or yours).
We can provide face-to face training. Each course takes one day and costs $AUD550.00. We do require some information about what it is that you or your organisation hopes to achieve by training so that we can prepare appropriate materials in advance of the course.
Each participant in one-on-one full day courses is automatically enrolled at no extra cost in the broadband learning version of the matching course (at either softwaretutor.net or landscapetutor.net). This would normally cost an additional $75.00 per person. In this way, students get a double benefit - personal tuition and the ability to access any of the written instructional materials online, replay any of the demonstration movies, download sample files, log questions, take quizzes and submit assignments for review.
Again, as part of our continuing drive to reduce our carbon emissions, because you have access to the broadband learning site at no extra cost, you can view the online workbook at any time. This enables us to avoid printing a hard copy of the manual and lets you always view an up-to-date copy.
Here is the syllabus for the course. More information and sample modules from the course can be found at http://www.softwaretutor.net.
Module Title |
Description |
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Introduction |
The history of SketchUp including some discussion on versions of SketchUp. SketchUp Pro. The SketchUp interface. Using the rectangle and the Push/Pull tool to create 3D shapes. Placing rectangles on a 3D surface. The function of each item on the main toolbar. Creating an accurately sized model of a rainwater tank (with down pipes) by drawing and extruding circles. Drawing arcs, combining the line and arc tool. Using the offset command. Experimenting with different display techniques. Examining some examples of SketchUp models from different disciplines. |
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Preliminaries |
Setting a metric drawing environment. |
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Interface |
We build two simple models while making an examination of the SketchUp interface - an arrangement for some curved seating and a rainwater tank with stand. We first use the rectangle tool and come to terms with the Push/Pull tool to create a box. We draw a second rectangle on a face of a box. The pen tool is then used to draw a rectangle. We close the rectangle using an inference aid. The Pan tool is used and comment is made about the 'helper' model in the corner of the screen. We use the Push/Pull tool along with the inference 'helper' to line faces up. We set out the function of each of the tools on the main SketchUp palette. The File drop down menu, importing a CAD model, importing an image file into the SketchUp environment. |
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Interface 2 |
A focus on the view commands. Display types, pages, TourGuide. We set out the function of each of the tools on the main SketchUp palette. We use the section cut tool to slice through a model. The importance of properly construction models using components is stressed. |
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Putting it all together |
This case study provides an opportunity to draw together the SketchUp skills learned to thus far. We use SketchUp to create a model which began life in the AutoCAD/IntelliCAD environment and we move the rudimentary plan to SketchUp showing that AutoCAD geometry, blocks and layering can be incorporated into a SketchUp model. This saves designers much time as they can utilize existing work. The design comprises a rather large walled courtyard, 10 metres by 10 metres which includes a curved entrance statement, an L-shaped paved area with formal seating, a water feature, an active play area [noughts and crosses] and extensive planting. |
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Draw |
The draw commands - line, arc, polygon, freehand. |
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Editing |
The Edit drop down menu. |
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Grouping objects |
Selecting individual objects and grouping them together. Editing a group of objects. using the rotate tool. Using the move tool to line groups up. |
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Terrain modelling |
Terrain modelling. |
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3D warehouse |
Google SketchUp has links to a large set of 3D models which you can use in your own design work. Google encourage you to share your models with others and upload models into Google Earth. |
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Texture mapping |
Using the paint tool to apply textures to your models. Creating and using new texture maps. |
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Attaching Images to Models |
Attaching image files to frames in your model. Stretching and distorting images to fit parts of the model. |
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Components |
Turning groups of objects into components for use in other SketchUp models. |
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Downloads |
Downloading sample files required for the course. |
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Case Study 1 |
Creating a design for the rear garden of a house. The design calls for outdoor entertaining for adults - wood fired pizza oven and kitchen, sandpit, cubby house for two younger family members and an active 'sports' area for teenage boys. |