Automatic Reinforced Concrete (RC) & Stair Reinforcement Generator + Cost Estimation Plugin for SketchUp

[Ricardoarch011]

Hello everyone

I’m an architect developing an advanced automated 3D workflow for reinforced concrete and building systems in SketchUp.
My goal is to create a full BIM-capable plugin that allows users to:

Automatically generate structural elements (footings, columns, beams, slabs, stairs)

Automatically generate reinforcement (main bars, stirrups, distribution bars, landing reinforcement) for stairs and all RC elements with 1-click generation

Integrate MEP components (pipes, ducts, HVAC, electrical) parametrically

Perform automatic clash detection between structure and MEP

Real-time multi-user collaboration via cloud (element-level locking, live updates)

Calculate BOQ / cost estimation for both structural and MEP components

Assign IFC tags for full BIM interoperability

Why this plugin?

SketchUp is fast and flexible, but currently semi-BIM and limited to structure only.

Revit offers multi-discipline BIM and real-time collaboration, but is heavy and less intuitive for conceptual modeling.

This plugin would bring Revit-like capabilities to SketchUp, combining speed, automation, and BIM-ready data.

Technical Approach:

Built on SketchUp Ruby API

Parametric procedural modeling for RC + MEP

GUI via UI::HtmlDialog for parameters and live preview

Optional cloud sync and IFC export for collaboration and interoperability

Who I’m looking for:

SketchUp Ruby API developers interested in plugin creation

Structural and MEP engineers familiar with rebar detailing and BIM workflow

Collaborators for open-source or commercial development

If you’re interested in discussing feasibility, collaborating, or contributing ideas, please reply here or contact me directly.

Thank you for your time and consideration

— JRVaz 3D (Architect / 3D Animation