In SketchUp, the North Axis represents the direction of the true north in your 3D model. By default, SketchUp sets the North Axis to align with the red axis.
However, there may be instances where you need to change the North Axis to match a different direction. In this tutorial, we will explore how to change the North Axis in SketchUp.
Step 1: Accessing the Geolocation Settings
To change the North Axis, we first need to access the geolocation settings. To do this, go to the “Window” menu and select “Model Info”.
Step 2: Setting a Location
Once you have opened the Model Info window, navigate to the “Geo-location” tab. Here, you can set a specific location for your model by entering an address or coordinates in the search bar. Alternatively, you can choose a location from Google Earth by clicking on the “Add Location” button.
Note: If your model already has a location assigned, skip to Step 3.
Adding a Location from Google Earth
If you choose to add a location from Google Earth, click on the “Add Location” button. This will open a new window where you can search for and select your desired location.
- Type in the address or name of your desired location in the search bar.
- Zoom in or out of the map using your mouse scroll wheel or by clicking on the “+” or “-” buttons.
- Drag and drop the map until your desired location is centered within it.
- Click on “Grab” to confirm your selection and close the window.
Step 3: Changing the North Axis
With a location assigned to your model, you can now change the North Axis. In the Geo-location tab of the Model Info window, you will find a compass icon representing the North Axis. By default, it aligns with the red axis.
To change the North Axis:
- Click on the compass icon.
- A circular rotation gizmo will appear.
- Click and drag on the circular gizmo to rotate it and align it with your desired direction for the North Axis.
You can also manually input an angle in degrees by clicking on the “Angle” input box below the compass icon and entering a value. This allows for precise control over the orientation of your North Axis.
Step 4: Applying Changes
After changing the North Axis, click on “Grab” or “Update Grabbed Area” (if you added a location from Google Earth) to apply your changes to your model. SketchUp will adjust the orientation of your model accordingly.
That’s it! You have successfully changed the North Axis in SketchUp.
By manipulating this setting, you can ensure that your model accurately represents its real-world surroundings. Whether you are working on architectural designs or urban planning projects, having control over the North Axis is essential for accurate visualization and analysis.
Note: Changing the North Axis does not affect any existing geometry or objects in your model. It only adjusts how SketchUp interprets and displays geographic information within your project.