Posts made by facer

LSS Arch Lite - QUESTIONS TO PLUGIN AUTHOR Kirill B.

Kirill,

A. Can LSS Arch Lite be used with Skalp as for LSS Arch?

B. Could IFC naming be added?

The IFC naming feature at present is only included in LSS Arch.

Could an Arch Lite version include this feature?
(listed in LSS Arch features as " 07.3 set IFC attributes to LSS Arch Objects"

I would suggest the above features A and B would make the LSS Arch Lite plugin
more attractive and users would be willing to pay an additional cost.

These additional options could be included in an intermediate version called
LSS Arch Lite Plus. (at a higher cost than LSS Arch Lite but below LSS Arch)

FULL VERSION FEATURES OF LSS ARCH
(Not Included in LSS Arch Lite)

1. mesh tool
2. grid tool
3. contour tool
4. reports generation
5. labeling
6. layers dialog
7. utilities
   07.1 save/restore LSS Arch objects
   07.2 convert imported IFC objects to LSS Arch objects
   07.3 set IFC attributes to LSS Arch objects
   07.4 batch explode selected LSS Arch objects
   07.5 load points from CSV or OBJ file
8. ability to adjust manually origin and rotation of texture mapping

LSS Arch Lite - plugin [$] $25

This is a lite version of the full LSS Arch plugin [$]
Plugin developer: Kirill B - kirill2008 Russian architect

Extension Warehouse
http://extensions.sketchup.com/en/content/lss-arch-lite

Overview
This extension is a simplified version of LSS Arch and it allows you to draw and edit
basic building elements, such as walls, columns, slabs etc.

Could be useful for small to medium scale projects.
Has anyone tried this plugin? Any comments?

LSS Arch LIte - plugin [$] $25

This is a lite version of the full LSS Arch plugin [$]

Plugin developer: Kirill B - kirill2008 Russian architect

Extension Warehouse
http://extensions.sketchup.com/en/content/lss-arch-lite

Overview
This extension is a simplified version of LSS Arch and it allows to draw and edit
only basic building elements, such as walls, columns, slabs etc.

Could be useful for small to medium scale projects.
Anyone have experience with this plugin?

Spanish:
no eh podido descargar nada

English "Google Translation"
eh not able to download anything

WebGL4SU - web exporter
Interesting approach.

Will your web exporter also include:

1. viewing of set SCENES?

2. sectional cuts of the model in various planes?

The above features are useful and are in:
[Plugin]T2H_EXPORT_WEBGL(Simple Viewer on Web Browser)
http://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=323%26amp;t=63763

I look forward to trying your plugin as it offers
a variety of features.

LinkedIn update listing on "Ping Pink" 3 April 2016 reads:

CAAD Lecturer
RMUTT (Rajamangala University of Technology Thanyaburi - Thailand)
December 2014 – February 2016 (1 year 3 months)Faculty of Architecture
3D & Graphic Design

I have sent a LinkedIn email to Jeerawan asking if their is any news on the "plugin"
she may be able to share with the SketchUcation community.

Your Survey will get lost in the comments etc. in this current thread.
Can it be entered as a "stand alone" survey as a NEW THREAD ENTRY.

Here is an example of what the Survey Question could look like:

Medeek Truss - Survey - please answer one question to assist plugin developer.

Go to survey - https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/59ZSZ8N

Results of survey - https://www.surveymonkey.com/results/SM-TRZQ36SW/

Question:
Is the Medeek Truss plugin something you need or would like to see?
(thread to 3D Truss Models, Medeek Truss plugin - http://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=323%26amp;t=63133)

Your Answer:
Yes or No in survey.
Plugin Developers Comment:
If the answer is "no", then I have other ideas for plugins that I can divert my attention to.

If the answer is "yes", then I would like to continue developing this plugin and spend as much of my free time as possible to accelerate its development.

=============================================================================================

Your existing input for a survey follows:

*I guess the honest question I would like to ask the SketchUp community is: Is this plugin something you need or would like to see?

If the answer is "no", then I have other ideas for plugins that I can divert my attention to.

If the answer is "yes", then I would like to continue developing this plugin and spend as much of my free time as possible to accelerate its development.

Here is the one question survey:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/59ZSZ8N

With the results here:

https://www.surveymonkey.com/results/SM-TRZQ36SW/*

To be clear I am saying there are TWO STAGES in Design Development.

Stage 1 - This is the first look at the issues for discussion with a better understanding of the problem.
As noted SketchUp is the easier tool to use as it allows quick studies in a short
timeframe.

Stage 2 - This is undertaken when the "plan" is becoming "locked in" and only minor changes
are expected. At this stage the PRIMARY CAD PROGRAM ( ArchiCad, Revit or other)
are used as prior to SketchUp v16 the 3D model in SketchUp was "dumb" and their was
no link to the PRIMARY PROGRAM.

         **This has now changed with IFC classifications** (Industry Foundation Classification)
         of components that can be "read or interpreted by the PRIMARY PROGRAM.

         As a result the use of IFC will likely extend the use of SketchUp into
         Design Development Stage 2 **as CAD work done there is not "lost"**

         For medium to large firms (say 5 people plus) the cost of using a CAD operator on
         the PRIMARY PROGRAM is higher than using a second level CAD operator using SketchUp.
         Recent graduates from the schools of architecture are a good example of a
         second level CAD operator.  
         
         The cost of SketchUp Pro and plugins is substantially less than a PRIMARY PROGRAM.
         This would allow say two second level CAD operators to feed a PRIMARY CAD operator.
         This is all speculative on my part but the driving force is time and money, so it
         seems likely.

         Given this evolving change (if it happens?) plugins like 3D Truss will become
         more useful.

         Hope this clarifies my previous note.

Subject: 3D Truss Models

@medeek said:

I've recently added the ability in my online truss calculator to output SketchUp 3D geometry. The generated file uses the plugin method (.rb) where you simply drop the file into your SketchUp plugins folder. The plugin prompts the user for the number of trusses to draw and the truss spacing so that one can create the usual array of trusses for architectural models. For example 4 fink trusses @ 24" o/c would give you something like this:

or a single truss might be:

The truss calculator has been around for almost two years but this is the first time I considered providing an output for SketchUp. I'm not a Ruby programmer (perl is my thing) but I found the SketchUp API to be very easy to use and the Ruby programming fairly straight forward and less clunky than even Perl.

Currently only the "fink" truss has the SketchUp output, the truss calculator is located here:

http://design.medeek.com/calculator/calculator.pl

Technically this tool is geared toward the engineer but with the addition of the SketchUp output/functionality it might also be of some use for the DIYer who wants to draw up his/her own design in SketchUp.

Also note that there is a daily limit on the calculator since the server was getting hammered earlier this year and bandwidth became an issue.

==========================

3D Truss - where is its most likely market to the maximum number of users?

That question should be considered in the light of the three stages of design and documentation.

1. Concept Design (the basic or core idea)
This is where SketchUp excels. Layout of 3d spaces (plan in 3d), window and door locations,
orientation of building components in regards solar gain etc.

At this stage 3D Truss is more of a distraction than an aid.

2. Design Development(evolving the agreed design with the client, regulations, authorities etc)
This is the stage where construction and materials play a greater role.

3D Truss can assist the designer to understand what are the construction issues in regard
details. 3D Truss allows quick studies of roof types, layout etc in regards the required
structure.

3. Documentation for Building Permit.
This varies from country to country as to the evolved method of dealing with the structural
computations and granting of a building permit.

In Australia the structure design and computations are undertaken by structural engineers,
or companies that use software to verify the structural integrity.

The "key factor" is liability for the structure. If the roof blows off who is to be
sued and at what level. In this example the designer and the structural engineer will be
held to account, generally each to a varying percentage.

4. Truss Design in other CAD programs.

1. Chief Architect focuses on residential design and has a good user base.
   Design work flow for complex residential is often:
   a. SketchUp - Concept Design, Design Dev (1st stage)
   b. Chief Architect - Design Dev (2nd stage - details and materials "locked in")
   The above works in a similar way for ArchiCad and Revit.
   The "important point" is that SketchUp is the most free flowing and spontaneous of CAD programs.
   Now with 2016 and the option of creating IFC (Industry Foundation classes) for components it is easier
   to integrate with the two major programs noted above. This mean that initial concept work done in
   SketchUp is not lost in the 3D CAD workflow. This is a very import change and should be monitored.

This is why components created in 3D Truss should be classified IFC (simple) at the minimum.

I have attached pdf files from Chief Architects technical help section
https://www.chiefarchitect.com/support/article/

You can download a free trial of Chief Architect X8 with use limited for a set time.

5. Surveys to find out what the user wants.
One free survey tool is:
SurveyMonkey: Free online survey software & questionnaire ...

https://www.surveymonkey.com/
Create and publish online surveys in minutes, and view results graphically and in real time. SurveyMonkey provides free online questionnaire and survey ..

Regards,
Ray

---

Creating a Vaulted Ceiling and Scissor Trusses.pdf

---

Creating an Attic Truss.pdf

---

Creating an Energy Heel Truss.pdf

---

Creating Roof Trusses.pdf

@medeek said:

I'm thinking the next thing I might tackle is an octagonal rafter roof. Something along these lines:

My time allotted to work on the plugin is very limited right now so I'm trying to decide if this would be something of interest for current and potential users of the plugin.

Medeek Truss - Nathaniel

A half octagon roof would be useful for greenhouses, tea rooms, and extensions to existing
houses, cafes and small offices. (refer to screencapture with red section marks)

I have been following your plugin using the "trial version" and a few thoughts come to mind:

**1. Keep it Simple (stupid). (KISS)**   No offence intended, it is a common "Check - design" mnemonic or mental stamp used with every new idea or concept.

Offering too many options although good can work against you until your market is tested.
Feedback is required as you may be going off into areas that users have little interest in.

If your market is architects, builders and designers; remember they chose their profession because
they have an interest in that area, not structural engineering. Of course there is a crossover but I bet most in the above list are mainly interested in how the truss affects their area of focus.

**2. Graphics help and assists in data input**.  A good example to view is the "1001 bits" plugin.

Graphics are important to aid the "non-engineer".

Colour, blocking of information that are linked or share associated areas would help.
Lists of data input are difficult to follow as there is no "road map" to where
it is leading.

**3. Preset options**with data toned in colour or grey with limited options for changes to key variables in white or a colour. ( e.g. roof slope angle) This would allow the user at a glance to focus in on set options.


**4. Truss design and engineering computations** are generally handled by "truss fabricators" here in Australia.  Their CAD drawings, computations and fabrication are part of their "full package software".


**5. The strength in your truss plugin is** allowing the architect, builder, client or designer, to understand better the likely design and construction issues for different truss options.

I congratulate you on your enthusiasm and I enjoy checking every few days
on what new truss you have considered.

All the best with your plugin.

Half octagone roof for Green houses, tea rooms and extensions.

---

Look Around checkbox

This button should be ticked when in a room that you want to explore
It allows easy "Look Around" functions which are difficult in the main mode.

Good tip on zipping html files. Thank you.

Model by faust07 came up on Google Chrome quite well, no real issues.

Seems to be more fluid now, good work T2H.

Just bumping this for Tak2hata's plugin:

[Plugin]T2H_EXPORT_WEBGL_v0.9.6(2015.12.26)

I don't want anyone to miss it

+1 TAK2HATA - Thank you for your efforts.
I look forward to next version.

Just bumping this for Tak2hata

His title is too cryptic and
most users would miss that it is a Free Browser Viewer

IFC Classifications
I do not see IFC definitions of the truss components.
Will this be included in future versions of your plugin/extension?

T2H BuildingStructureTools (by Tak2hata) is a good example of the implementation
of SketchUps IFC Classifications.

Keep up the good work - I learn a little more about Trusses
with each or your new posts

Just bumping this "Plugin" up the list.

Title does not tell what it can do so I have added a
Note with clearer title.
3d Model Viewer (FREE Plugin) using your browser

3d Model Viewer (FREE) using your Chrome or Firefox browser.

Check out:

Plugin]T2H_EXPORT_WEBGL
posting in this forum by Tak2hata

LINK: http://sketchucation.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=323%26amp;t=63763%26amp;p=584189%26amp;hilit=Plugin

Tak2hata's title does not really describe the plugins value.

I have added this topic to ALERT members as most would miss this plugin.
My early tests show it is potentially a very useful tool for client or prospective client
communication.

Comments after testing T2H_EXPORT_WEBGL (viewer)
using Win 7 on a PC.

1. Look Around (feature)
This is for inside closed small spaces. (do not use for external views - frustrating)
When in an enclosed space use "Look Around" to explore the elements designed

2. Access to SU2WebGL viewer can be from any computer with
access to internet and the "files" stored in the Cloud (e.g. Dropbox etc)

3. SU2WebGL viewer offers an improved level of "copyright security" over the 3d model.
This is of course relative but in comparison to issuing PDF files or dwg etc files from
proprietary software it makes it harder to copy. (at least this is my current understanding)

4. Use of "Scenes" is helpful for the recipient of the file(s) as a client or a work colleague
as it assists in "virtual communication" (skype etc)

If a scene is taken with the "parallel camera and roof top view" the Z section shows the
plans with x-y in 90 degrees.

5. Display of textures varies relative to the position of the viewer. Move in close to the model
and it is quite reasonable. This hopefully will improve with later versions.

6. SU2WebGL viewer is simple to use and will allow quick access to a the 3d Model for external, internal, sectional, and plan views.

I find it is a helpful tool that can aid communication.

Future Features.
Some form of markup would be very helpful to aid in communication.
At present I use screen captures that are then marked up.

I look forward to the next version.

H2H,
I suggest adding the phrase "3d Viewer" to your title,
or 3d Model Viewer.

At present the title does not indicate what your extension does.
I think more members would review your post if it indicated
that it is a 3d Model Viewer using their web browser.

All the best to everyone for the New Year.

Fault:
Axis in html model shows incorrectly:
vertical axis - shown as green (should be blue)

x-axis - shown as blue (should be green

The Look Around option (tick box) when selected
does not seem to function correctly.

It does not allow any easier way of navigating the model,
It makes it impossible to get into the model.

Suggestion:
Lights selection options slider data box.
I suggest having the option to "revert back to original settings"
This will allow experimenting and then to exit the model with the original settings.

All in all a very good start for a potentially useful plugin.

Thanks again T2H.