Graphics Programs Reference
In-Depth Information
the challenge of producing detailed design from scant information available
in topics, and sometimes from only pictures and overall dimensions.
In the case of the mahogany bookcase, I found a front and side orthogonal
view with overall dimensions in a topic by Charles H. Hayward called Period
Furniture Designs . The only dimensions were overall width, height, and depth;
but these are all I need to produce a complete and detailed three-dimensional
(3D) model in SketchUp.
SketchUp is an extremely valuable tool for me in breaking down difficult
projects and enabling my construction in the shop. It is so valuable that I will
not start a construction without first building the project in SketchUp. The
shop work is facilitated by the integrity of the design and the detailed prod-
ucts of the model, that is, fully dimensioned details, joint information, X-ray
views, and full-size templates. I save time and materials, and more impor-
tantly, eliminate rework and frustration with SketchUp.
In many cases, including this bookcase, I attempt woodworking processes
never before performed by me. I like these challenges but would not have had
the confidence to attempt them without SketchUp. SketchUp has a way of
uncovering and exposing the details and breaking down complexity, so that
the actual work is understandable and doable.
The following picture is produced from the SketchUp design file. I used
SketchUp to texture the model with mahogany wood grains based on the
actual finish applied by me to the bookcase. One of the most challenging
components of a bookcase is the cornice. This is also shown in the figure.
Project Context
The only software used in this project is SketchUp Pro, which includes Layout.
All the design modeling could have been done with the free version of
SketchUp. I use Layout to produce professional drawing packages in portable
document format (PDF) for my students and other customers.
Technical Aspects
Prior to using SketchUp, I used various two-dimensional (2D) computer-aided
design (CAD) systems to develop design drawings. I was familiar with 3D CAD,
which was extensively used for developing large-scale process plant design at
my work prior to retirement. I wanted 3D capability in my woodworking hobby
at the time, but found these large CAD systems very expensive and difficult to
use. I wanted 3D capability so that I could create unlimited views of the project
in any direction or angle. Also, I would be able to produce exploded views, and
visualize all the pieces of the furniture and how they connect. The 3D model
would give me the opportunity to check joint fit-up and integrity.
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