Just introducing myself
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Hello, my name is Gordon and I thought I'd just introduce myself. I use sketchup all the time in my job as a Production Engineer. It's the perfect tool for quickly conceptualising jigs and fixtures, or benches, or other production equipment like that.
I've attached a PDF to show an example of how I use sketchup. My normal workflow is: model in sketchup, use the Smustard ortho plugin to generate orthographic projections, dimension the model in sketchup, export as 2d PNG, open up a Word template that has the border details I require, fill in the border details, import the PNG, create a PDF, print and supply to machine shop for fabrication.
I've tried Layout, wasn't a huge fan, but I'm not massively keen on the way sketchup dimensions in general, especially the lack of native support for dimensioning angles.
It's also a shame that there isn't a dead simple way to import models from Pro/Engineer, which is what our Mechanical Engineers use to model up parts. I've had some success with using the STL import plugin. Being able to import the CAD data they work on means I can build jigs and fixtures etc whilst getting dimensions straight off the modelled part, rather than from a drawing that never seems to show the dimensions I'm interested in.
Anyway, that's how I use sketchup. Is there anyone else out there that uses it in a similar way? Any tips on how I can improve workflow and get the best out of sketchup?
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Hi Gordon,
First off, welcome to SCF i think you'll enjoy it here!
I checked out your PDF, very impressive. I'm also using SU in the same kind of enviroment as yourself. I produce Detailed Drawings for an Aviation Training School. Mainly i work from Manufacturer's drawings and visualize those into 3d. But when needed i'll produce my own Detailed Drawing for the students to fabricate parts etc.
I would definitely invest more time in LayOut as it's an effective partner to SU, and yields good results! Although i don't have the latest version which is supposed to be alot better
Anyway i'm rambling, nice to meet you
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Welcome Gordon.
Nice sheets and an interesting method.
I agree with Rich about Layout and the latest version has dimensioning. Certainly got to be worth getting to grips with.
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