Introduction
Due to its interface and multidisciplinary usage, Google Sketchup is undoubtedly the most popular program for 3D modeling. This tool neither loses functionality in the free version nor adds watermarks to the final result. Furthermore, it contains a huge, open-source library with a large selection of 3D objects. Moreover, Google SketchUp gets contributions from its users, which help in reducing difficulties caused by new SketchUp versions. Also, this tool provides the greatest of all SketchUp plugins for architects. Thus, in order to learn more about SketchUp and its related plugins, stick to this detailed article. Alternatively, you can entrust Google SketchUp Training Institute in Noida for a more advanced approach to gaining skills and standing apart from the crowd.
Different Google SketchUp Plugins Available
List down below are the significant Google Sketchup plugins available for Architects.
● CLF Shape Bender
Chris Fullmer created the plugin. It allows the user to bend a component or group to follow a free-hand line or curve.
Using this tool, you can obtain a wireframe evaluation of the product before implementation. Also, it enables you to design custom windows, doors, and features for curving walls and roofs.
● LumenRT
It is an application for visualizing plugin architecture in a real-world environment with realistic lighting. However, LumenRT is a comprehensive solution for converting 3D models and designs into natural-looking films, pictures, and real-time immersive experiences.
● Multiple Offsets
This free plugin from Sam D Mitch includes offset techniques in 3D. One can offset multiple surfaces and then pick from the three available solutions.
Moreover, it simplifies the creation of offsets and is suitable for modeling complex domes.
● Random Push Pull
The plugin which we have kept on our fourth list is the Random Push Pull. Using this plugin, you can experiment to produce unique variants of amusing wall cladding. Also, it can push all of the selected surfaces within the specified range.
Moreover, Random Push Pull plugin requires simply a maximum and a minimum value to function. After that, it returns a set of surfaces with depths between the maximum and minimum ranges.
● IRender NXT
This tool is beneficial for architects and designers to make high-quality picture slideshows for their products in Google Sketchup.
● Curvilsoft
This plugin by Fredo6 is a simple modeling tool with a parametric bend. However, it can generate nine distinct options that you may create from a collection of pre-selected curved lines. Also, it provides the option to change the ultimate thickness of a SketchUp model, which is useful when creating furniture.
● Mirror
This plugin is similar to the one we have seen in AutoCAD. It is beneficial for symmetric models and components. Moreover, the Mirror plugin of SketchUp is easy to use and allows you to select the mirror plane and choose whether to keep or remove the original after the completion of the process.
First, you must store it in the plugins folder to use. After that, choose the appropriate object and navigate to the ‘Plugins’ mirror section. Then, the user must select the three defining points of the mirror plane before deciding whether to keep or delete the source item.
● LSS Matrix
This plugin from Kirill B does the same thing what Array does in AutoCAD. It generates 3D radial or rectilinear patterns from particular pieces and may use to develop a spiral staircase. However, the only thing left to do is to model the first two stages. Moreover, the LSS Matrix allows you to build a chained component sequence by modifying the parent block.
● QudFace Tools
Quad face Tools plugin from ThomThom help users in dealing with non-planar surfaces. It also assists in creating furniture, topographies, and form-based conceptual models. However, you may use this plugin to provide a correct, realistic surface for a reticulated helmet.
● Clean Up
It is a one-of-a-kind plugin that cleans up the model. This plugin joins coplanar surfaces, eliminates lonely edges, and removes duplicate or concealed lines. However, we suggest using it with dynamic Sketchup models that have a lot of hidden objects and require a lot of customization. After completing the design, you may utilize CleanUp to delete the file.
● Edge tools
Edge Tools is a free plugin by ThomThom that is useful for dealing with AutoCAD maps and plans. The tool detects open ends, reduces the number of segments, and assists in the closure of smaller gaps.
This user-friendly set of edging tools saves time in different ways, including the ability to simplify imported DWG site plans and split single faces into many planes. Another significant feature is that it can indicate flaws, allowing you to clean up a model.
Conclusion
To conclude, we have compiled the different plugins that architects and designers may easily integrate with Google Sketchup to streamline their working process. Therefore, to understand the working of these plugins, Google SketchUp Online Training is the most viable option.