Architectural_Design_with_SketchUp

Architectural Design with SketchUp
So what is the benefit of using this modeling approach? By actually “building” (as in the
sense of virtually constructing) our 3D models, we are incorporating something very useful
into our design process: immediate design validation and error checking. For example, you
can easily see if a cut didn’t work in your 3D model and fix it, which—of course—is cheaper
than physically building something and having to redo it.
In addition, virtually building assemblies in 3D allows you to conceptualize the construction
process, making it much easier—and less error prone—when you actually have to build
something in reality (see Figure 3.13). Especially when various layers are involved (in architecture
this could consist of interior finishes—structure—skin—exterior shading devices), this
allows you to think through the process of matching and coordinating all those layers (and
all of the subcontractors involved) at an early, conceptual stage.
Independent of your discipline, you can use this approach to test feasibility of construction
details on the job site, workflow processes (in plant layout), furniture assembly in the wood
shop, modeling for 3D printing, and many more applications. Figure 3.14 shows how a large
construction firm, Turner Construction Company, uses SketchUp in its New York World Trade
Center Transportation Hub project to previsualize structural steel assemblies.
Figure 3.13: Finding an unprotected post top in your model
lets you fix it before building it
Figure 3.14: Detailed model of box girder steel, precast smoke purge ducts, and
temporary shoring (Image used with permission of Turner Construction Company.)
Example 3.1: Trimming Groups Using Two Methods
This example uses two methods to trim groups: SketchUp’s
Intersect with Model tool (which is in both the free and the
Pro versions) and SketchUp Pro’s Trim feature (from the Solid
Tools). The task at hand is mitering two large steel beams at
a corner. To start, I downloaded a wide-flange cross-section
component from the 3D Warehouse and turned it into two
beams, using the Push/Pull tool.
Let’s start with the Intersect with Model workflow:
1. To line up all necessary geometry, place the two beams
in their final positions:
56