Posts made by sk.lion

This was raised in another thread, and it got to ask others if they have noticed the same observation. 3D warehouse at one time or anohter was filled with wonderful models, and at one point a really reliable place to find quality products. However, recently in the last few months i have been noticing the warehouse bing inundated with content that hardly makes even the beginners cut (meaning it actually looks like something useful)

Now, i hardly even go to 3D warehouse, and have instead been purchasing my models from other sources, since i know what i am getting. Personally, i think it revolves around too many people not knowing how to use sketchup effectively. Sure, anyone can learn it, but there seems to be a small few who have mastered it, or at least have good enough knowledge on how to model.

Any thoughts on why this could be? How we can get people to model better?

Just some thoughts for you!

@unknownuser said:

@unknownuser said:

But you only have to look at some of the lack lustre models in the 3d warehouse to see that the quality and accuracy of the virtual world that is being created is potentially not as good as the competition.

Jon..yes starting to clutter up but I am still finding some outstanding modeling and some very interesting techniques some of which I have never seen here at the forum.

Google Earth is just the public depository. Meaningful applications of SU/GE would have to happen on private Google Earth Servers.

Just like you tube, lots of crap, but every so often you find really good works. Personally, i really on professionally made models as opposed to the 3D warehouse.

Anyways, Fletch, could you give me an idea where to find that exporter, currently i can only export with .KMZ XD XD Yeah, i know charging people for exporting is cruel... but hey, it takes up my time to do this stuff!

@alan fraser said:

You can already get a mesh from the free version to 3ds via Media Machines.

It imports kmz and exports 3ds and Maya. However, the question remains, why should Pro users both pay for the software and drive its development for the benefit of people who do neither?

The huge Poser community is of a similar nature to the gaming community. In fact there is probably a great deal of overlap. Like any other modders they generally don't do it on a commercial basis...but they still don't expect to get the software for free.
GMax is not really a valid comparison. It's the free...and considerably scaled down version of a very expensive piece of software. SketchUp Pro, on the other hand, is not only very reasonably priced, it is already little different from the free version...without any further concessions.

Some good points, and i agree, there is overlap. Hopefully, these issues can get resolved one day, seeing that sketchup is too good of a program to overlook. At anyrate, it has come to my attention that i will need to gather some people with knowledge with programming, and see if we can close this gap in one form or another.

BTW, thank you for providing the link, this will be very useful if it can perform all the functions as sketchups 3DS exporting option can do.

@alan fraser said:

But if there was effectively no difference between the Pro version and the Free version, who would bother to buy the product at all. ...as opposed to the Google Earth and gaming community?...
Personally, I think that would sign the death warrant for the program, beyond its use as a GE adjunct or a level-builder.

Hmmm, interesting observation, considering that many free sketchup users move on up to the pro version. Myself started off in the basic version, and after a while i moved up to the pro version. Right now, i am offering up an export service for those who cannot afford the pro version, which is okay and all, and a good way to earn some money possibly.

However, i am not too keen on being inundated with models other people expect me to export other programs for further use, when it could be simply done by themselves at the click of mouse.

Yes Sketchup free and pro should remain separate, but at the same time, let some of the options like exporting features be made purchasable, at least.

Works from an Urban Design/Planner
Done in Sketchup, shown in SimCity 4

I have started this thread as a sort of eye opener for poeple who use sketchup, and see what uses SKP has that you may not have ever thought of before. I think that there is much potential in creating custom content for games in Sketchup.

About
For about 5 years, and even before SimCity 4 came out, i have been creating custom content for the SimCity series. The main difference between me and most custom content creators for SimCity, also known as “BATers”, is that I use Sketchup to do the bulk of my modeling and texturing. Not many people know this, but it can be used to create buildings and content for SimCity!

I use Sketchup mainly because it is a more visually interactive and engaging program to plan and create custom lots for SimCity. Though GMAX has its advantages, and I still have use the program to export my building to SC4, I have always have and always will prefer Sketchup to do my modeling in.

Anyways, I thought it might be useful and inspiring to beginner BATers and even designers not interested in SimCity to see what can be achieved by using SKP to create custom content for gaming. And at the same time, I just wanted to show people what kind of design concepts and lot types I mainly create and use.

Now for the pictures!
To start off, I would like to mention that all the following custom lots shown in the pictures have been modeled in SCP and then exported to GMAX, then to SC4. These lots are all used for conceptual purposes only.

Here is the first picture of a cityscape I created for a “new urbanism” demonstration, this was actually one of the earlier models that I created to be view by the SimCity 4 Community. Most of my work until only recently has been created for research and visual purposes, and not meant to be used for the simulator. Most of my work, is for planning and design testing.

Like I mentioned before, a great deal of the work I do that involves SimCity is for design and planning purposes. Right now, I am actively pursuing a career based in the urban planning and/or design fields. In this picture, I designed an “open” mini mall, with back alley/lane enabled lot. As you may have noticed the texture work is not up to par with SC4 standards… but this lot was done for conceptual purposes.

Before the render, the Sketchup side of the modeling

Some row housing I created, to visualize what “skinny” lots and residential would look like, and the best way to lay them out. In a lot of my work, I have been focusing my attention to small lots and spaces for my work. I think the future of urban housing for cities will be around using small spaces for infill and better utilization. As you can see in the second pic, I still use GMAX, to do some texturing work and of course to export to SC4.

I’ll be upfront, I am not a fan of huge towering buildings that dwarf the surroundings and more important, do not serve the human scale. I look at Burj Dubai, and shake my head… though I do get the urge to draw up a tall building, or two, or three. The following picture is of “Trend Place” towers, one of few high rises over 20 floors I have created. It was inspired by the concorde pacific towers that are located in Vancouver BC.

Along with Trend Place, I created a few parks to compliment the set, of course as usually, it ends up turning into another set altogether. I have a bad habit of turning little add-ons into full fledged projects!

These next few pictures, I was experimenting with lot configurations, and more back alley development. It eventually ended up becoming a project to find out what back alleys would look like in SimCity 4. Today, most of my lots involved some sort of use of the back alley/lane, since I think it is a brilliant way to keep cars away, and encourage pedestrianism.

Around 1 year ago, I began to create more detailed work with models for SimCity, this building called “Ceder Place” was intended to demonstrate a “master planned” mid rise residential complex. It was made complete with townhomes and private park in the back. Though the full creation never became into full fruitation, it was an interesting project to work on regardless.

[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/newurbanism/sdrelease9_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

The next pictures show what I have nicknamed, the “houses in nowhere” and are the result of many hours trying to explore smart growth concepts, and to see what it would look like. Unfortunately, the results didn’t really live up to what I wanted, and instead became an example of what NOT to do in smart growth. The roads go nowhere, and non of the houses had garages for cars, so what was the use for roads? Oh well, it showed that smart growth is not as easy as it sounds!
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/newurbanism/new-suburbs5_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/newurbanism/new-suburbs4_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/newurbanism/new-suburbs1_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

And finally, the last pictures I will show here is of some of the work I have done in the past. As you can see, I try to fit as much into my lots, even if it looks really cramped. Hmm, would people really want to live here? This is the main reason why I use SimCity, as tool to test out urban design and planning concepts. However, I have been thinking more and more about actually starting a City Journal or perhaps a few custom lot releases to the SC4 community.

A small canal set, for irrigation uses.
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/zoneindy/canals3_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

Double level highways, used for eye candy
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/zoneindy/highway-test4_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

Some of the mid rise condo lots, with more double level highway work
[img:1zopcv90]http://starrdarcy.mypicgallery.com/zoneindy/highway-test2_large.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

Calgary inspired suburban homes
[img:1zopcv90]http://premium1.uploadit.org/starrdarcy//Diferent_ofthesame.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

Tenements for urban areas, kind of gloomy looking
[img:1zopcv90]http://premium1.uploadit.org/starrdarcy/backyard/example2.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

Use of the back alley/lane concept
[img:1zopcv90]http://premium1.uploadit.org/starrdarcy/backyard/backlot1a.jpg[/img:1zopcv90]

To close off
This is small sample of the work I have been creating over the years, and most of it has not been published to the web. Though, over the next while, I will be working hard to introduce Sketchup as a invaluable tool in the concept process for larger projects, and even smaller creations. As well as a useful modeling tool for those who are new and old to modeling for SimCity custom content, and not to mention other games too!

In my opinion, there is still a lot of uncharted territory when it comes to uses for Sketchup and other games, formats and media. There is a lot of imagination out there in the gaming community, most of which lyes with the average gamer who wants their own touch to a game.

The biggest challenge right now, and its rather unfortunate... is that to get access to some key features in Sketchup, in order to export to the proper game files, and use with other programs you will need the pro version. And while i was fortunate to have the money to drop for the pro version, most custom gamers out there don't have this kind of cash. Currently there are other programs like GMAX that have these export features and are still free. In my opinion i would like to see the export features become part of the basic version, or at least made available for separate purchase.

Despite this setback, and i believe that sketchup has a future with the custom content creation community. And i have made it my personal goal to get Sketchup part of the gamers modeling tools.

Thanks for reading, comments and advice welcome.

-starrdarcy

Hmm, even though i have the pro version, i would still like to see the export functions be a standard feature available to the free users. I hear alot of poeple who create custom content for games, and they drool over useing sketchup to do so, however, because of the fact that you need to drop some serious cash to get that option of exporting in Sketchup, most don't. I think what would open up sketchup to more poeple, especially the gaming community would be to at least have the option to buy some of the features from the pro version like the 3DS and exports.

I use the export function to send my files to games, and i love it. Others would love it too, if it was more in reach for them.

As i have said before, adding more features and tools will require more than just relying on official releases and updates.

just my .02

interesting, i really liked this tutorial, everyone should learn these types of tutorials. At any rate, there is the roof tool which can handle most of the work, for which i use now instead of doing it the long way. Still, should learn this anyways.

Thanks for mentioning this, this will be a nice addition when adding stainglass accents to my windows in models.

I probably should have added that this blog is mainly on Sketchup, with SimCity being the extension of my work. of course, i will be using other tools as well, however, there are the two main programs i will be working with.

BTW, i have secured the web hosting, and have a chosen wordpress theme i will be using, and eventually modding to my liking.

Thanks, i think there is still lots of room to grow in scripting, just wanted to learn a new trick

One area of sketchup which i have not gotten much into is the ruby scripting. While i do use various scripts for my models, like the mirror and roof script, i have not tried to make any scripts myself. Would someone be able to tell me what programming language or coding that should learned to become able to create my own scripts for sketchup? There are some ideas that are floating in my head, and would like to see them become reality one of these days.

Thanks.

wow this thread is inspiring, it really shows that anyone can do this work, get paid, but above all do what they really want and what they are really good at. Personally, i have been looking for ways i can use my sketchup experience and knowledge and create a full time job at it. I'm sure there are ways, and this thread has really opened my eyes towards getting there.

Currently i have knowledge with sketchup and learning 3DSmax too.

@remus said:

I'm not sure how you can suggest that nothign else can be done withotu a rewrite stu, you only have tog lance at the ruby forum to see there is a lot of exciting thigns that could be added as fully fledged features.

You have said finally the right words we all need to hear. We seem to have many people putting all their hopes on SU7, and sadly, that is not the right thing to do. Instead on waiting on official updates and content, this is time when the user comes in an can add in features to the Sketchup. As Remus said, there is still room to grow in scripting in Sketchup, and even more uncharted territory for custom applications and add ons. Look at how Podium has come along, think of the other possibilities that we can accomplish!

It is sad to see a thread like this, i see much complaining about a program that is still in its youth, and has much room to grow in terms of features and ad dons. Perhaps instead of complaining about SU, why not instead think of new ways to add our own custom content and add ons to Sketchup, its not impossible.

To sum up: this is time when we su users come in and make the program to our liking

@majid said:

and here is the PR render of the first subject . i did it not too tight , the floor bump is too heavy , and the TV & vase & plants R not good at all ... btw here it is

Nice, i like the lighting in this picture, it looks so realistic. Thanks for uploading these pictures.

Wow, podium sure has come a long ways, cant wait to see what it will be like in one years time. This is what i am looking for when it comes to rendering my models, and it well worth the price. I have used the eval version before and was impressed with it then, now i really want to use the full potential.

Now if this could only be harnessed to render models to other programs!

Awsome work, i like how the finished product turned out, look forward to your other projects.

oh boy, my post went up into the job board... tsk tsk, can someone move it to the corner bar, or a more suitable section, this isnt a job!

Thanks

My Second introduction!

My name is Darcy Cardinal, I’m an avid and dedicated Sketchup - SimCity designer and planner. I have over 5 years of working with the 3D design tool Sketchup, and 12 years of experience with SimCity. I also have over 9 years of map designing and planning, with work stretching across several mediums, both in the digital/real world.

Some of my progress in SKP exporting has been mentioned on Ogle earth. And have had several popular threads on SimTropolis, including a featured tutorial on “zoning for industrial” and an experiments thread, both of which can be found on ST. In the old Sketchup pro forums, I had one of my threads on SKP to SC4 become popular.

I have had many hobbies and interests over the years, however for as long as I can remember, cities and architecture has always fascinated me, along with city design and planning. I have been for many years creating cities on paper, and also using SimCity to somewhat test out my designs and plans. Eventually, Sketchup came along, and I began to use the program to visualize and create building designs, cityscapes and city plans. Naturally the two went hand in hand, and In due time, my Sketchup work began to merge with SimCity, and the two stuck.

Currently my area of Residence is in the windy city of Grande Prairie, Alberta, Canada. Though originally from Alberta, I yearn to live in the west coast at Vancouver, just because I like the big city and tall buildings! My plans for the next few years are to return to college for business and urban planning (wish I could do two at the same time ).

BTW, my old username is gone, i imagine it had something to do with not much posting, sorry!

-Darcy Cardinal

www.sklion.com

Hello Sketchucation community! I am happy to announce the creation of website and blog called SKlion just for the SimCity 4 & Sketchup! Please read on to find more about SKlion Smiley

SKlion
SKlion is simply about urban design and urban planning in SimCity with Sketchup , along with the experiences of the author along the way. SKlion will feature weekly blog posts, and tutorials related to using Sketchup for SimCity, and how to apply design & planning techniques found in the real world. The main goal is create a place where people can find advice and concepts for design and planning in both Sketchup & SimCity, and above all – ideas for your own projects and creations!

Some Background on SKlion
Today, there is an increasing demand for an easier tool to create custom content for SimCity 4, and finally there is a tool to do just that – Google Sketchup. This program is easy to learn and master, as well it is more visually engaging and pleasing to work with. Also, since Sketchup is more geared towards architects, city planning and design, there is a massive and growing collection of tools, scripts, and 3rd party programs that can be used to enhance the workflow, and model with greater ease and detail.

For about 4 years now, I have been creating content for both Sketchup and SimCity. Ever since then, I have had the desire to setup a website dedicated to urban design and planning with both programs. Though, until now, that has been made difficult as I have not had a lot of time to work with. Today, I finally have more time to invest and more knowledge than I did a few years ago. As well, I have noticed that there are few blogs out there on Sketchup and SimCity, so I have taken the opportunity to create one.

Some of the offerings of SKlion
I wanted to make this website special, with the SimCity & Sketchup community in mind. The main offerings of SKlion will be design & planning ideas, advice and help for both programs, and mainly, ideas and inspiration for your own work. The weekly updated blog, will feature informative posts related to SKP and SC4, and the SKlion “omnibus” will have easy to follow tutorials for both programs as well. For inspiration, I have created a gallery with both real world and custom design & planning examples. Here is an overview of what to expect on SKlion:

-Weekly updated blog
-Tutorials covering both SKP and SC4
-3 Main galleries
-RSS and Monthly newsletter
-Important links to resources
-Script and tool reviews
-News/events/announcements

Author/Contributors
Currently, just me: Darcy “starrdarcy” Cardinal. Though, I would like to find some individuals who want to share their ideas and content as well.

Current status and future plans
The website for the first few months will remain in “beta” as I am saving money to get someone help design/upgrade the WordPress template to the final version. Currently, the preview page is up right now, until the actual opening date. In the meantime, I will post up progress updates in this thread.

My future plans include; expand the website to feature custom content from both communities, and a website dedicated to a City Journal. Those plans are still several months down the line, and for now I am focusing on just getting the essential content up.

Authors note
Overall, I believe there is still a lot of room for creativity and expansion in both Sketchup and SimCity, there is a lot of uncharted territory in respect to planning and design, even after 13 or more years of SimCity. I wanted to create this website to feature content and ideas that have not been covered that much by both communities and at the same time, offer up some unique inspiration and advice for people looking for more in their projects.

I look forward to seeing what the response will be, once the site is opened! The scheduled date for the opening of SKlion is March 15 2008

You can view the preview page from here: www.sklion.com

Thanks.

-starrdarcy