Creating an exploded axonometric in Sketchup can add a dynamic and visually engaging element to your design presentations. In this tutorial, we will explore the step-by-step process of creating an exploded axonometric that will showcase the individual components of your model in a clear and concise manner.
Step 1: Prepare Your Model
Before we dive into creating the exploded axonometric, it is essential to have a well-organized model with distinct components. Ensure that each component is grouped or nested appropriately, making it easier to manipulate later on.
Step 2: Duplicate Components
To create the exploded effect, we need to duplicate the components of our model. Select one component at a time and use the Edit > Copy and Edit > Paste in Place commands to create duplicates of each component.
Step 3: Move and Rotate Duplicates
Now that we have our duplicates, it’s time to move and rotate them to create the desired exploded effect. Select each duplicate individually and use the Move tool (shortcut: M) to move them away from their original position.
You can also use the Rotate tool (shortcut: Q) to rotate components if necessary. Experiment with different movements and rotations until you achieve the desired effect.
Step 4: Adjust Component Transparency (Optional)
If you want to add an extra level of clarity to your exploded axonometric, consider adjusting the transparency of your duplicated components. To do this, select each duplicate individually and navigate to the Entity Info window. Here, you can adjust the “Transparency” slider to make the components partially or fully transparent.
Step 5: Group Exploded Components
Once you are satisfied with the exploded effect, it’s important to group all the duplicated components together. Select all the duplicated components by holding down the Shift key and clicking on each one. Right-click on any of the selected components and choose Make Group.
Step 6: Create a New Scene
To showcase both the original model and the exploded axonometric, we need to create a new scene. Click on the Window menu and select Scenes. In the Scenes window, click on the “Add Scene” button and name it accordingly.
Step 7: Adjust Camera Position (Optional)
If necessary, you can adjust the camera position to provide a better view of your exploded axonometric. Use the Pan, Orbit, and Zoom tools to position your model appropriately. Remember to update your scene once you are satisfied with the camera position.
Step 8: Switch Between Scenes for Comparison
To compare between your original model and exploded axonometric, simply click on each respective scene tab in Sketchup’s Scenes window. This allows viewers to understand how each component fits together in relation to the whole design.
Congratulations! You have successfully created an exploded axonometric in Sketchup. By following these steps and using Sketchup’s powerful tools, you can effectively communicate complex designs in a visually engaging manner.
- Tips:
- Use different colors for the duplicated components to differentiate them from the original ones.
- Experiment with different exploded configurations to find the most visually appealing arrangement.
- Consider adding annotations or labels to highlight important components or features.
Now that you have learned how to create an exploded axonometric, take your Sketchup presentations to the next level by incorporating this dynamic visual technique. Happy designing!