SketchUp for modeling?
I see that there are some threads with a lot of recommendations for 3D modeling programs, and I will check them out. But I am pretty experienced using Trimble SketchUp (The free "Make" version, and the last one that was not browser-based) for other things (e.g. woodworking plans). I understand there are add-ins that will let it create STL files. Does anyone here use SketchUp for making STL files? If so, how well does is work?
One specific question. I think SketchUp creates 3D objects as surfaces. For example, if you draw a rectangle, then extrude it into a box, it will really consist of 6 infinitely thin sides. You can navigate into the interior of the box. Will the STL converter, or the Slicer know to convert the sides into walls with a reasonable thickness, and add filler structures to the interior?
RE: SketchUp for modeling?
Exclusively. If you know how to use it and install plugins from Trimble and Sketchucation for 3D printing, you can get very nice models. They have a stl export/import plug in. There is also a solid inspector, tools for rounding/beveling edges, thickening/extruding, loading shapes. I have about a dozen plugins just for 3D printing and others that I have found a way to use for 3D modeling. I was using the2017 version before they messed up and went to the WEB, and still use it.
If solid inspector says my model has no errors and I export it as stl all I have to do is slice it and print it. All I ever have to do in Prusaslicer is turn detect thin walls on. (not sure I have to do that for most of the models, but I do it out of habit)
It is good for graphic and structural models. I m not into sculpting, etc. and there are better alternatives for that.
..."One specific question. I think SketchUp creates 3D objects as surfaces. For example, if you draw a rectangle, then extrude it into a box, it will really consist of 6 infinitely thin sides. You can navigate into the interior of the box. Will the STL converter, or the Slicer know to convert the sides into walls with a reasonable thickness, and add filler structures to the interior?"...
The only time I have ever had a problem is when I tried to punch a hole in one of the sides without giving the side some thickness. It took me over three weeks to figure that one out. Nowhere on the internet could I find anyone having the same issue, so it had to be between the chair and the keyboard. It was.Other than that the slicer has no issues. The solid inspector picks those up and identifies them as 'face holes'. 6 infinitely thin faces all connected as a cube is treated as a solid (manifold). It slices just fine.
I keep wanting to try other CAD programs, but never get around to it. It is just to easy to do what I want in Trimble Sketchup Make 2017. My PSSS collection was all done in Sketchup. PM me if you want the specific plugins I use and what I use them for.
Kenn
Quality is the Journey, not the Destination. My limited prints->
RE: SketchUp for modeling?
Thanks! I'll give it a try with the plugins. I also use the 2017 version for the very same reason. So I knew I would need an STL exporter. The solid inspector sounds very handy.
I may eventually try some of the others, but since I invested time learning SketchUp, this will let me create some models right away.
--Cliff