Creating an array in SketchUp LayOut can be a useful and time-saving technique for duplicating elements in your design. Whether you want to create a row of evenly spaced objects or duplicate an entire group of elements, arrays can help you achieve this with ease.
What is an Array?
An array is a collection of multiple copies of an object or group arranged in a specific pattern. By using arrays, you can create repetitive patterns quickly and efficiently.
Creating a Linear Array
To create a linear array in SketchUp LayOut, follow these steps:
Step 1: Select the Object
Start by selecting the object or group that you want to duplicate. You can use the selection tool to select the desired element.
Step 2: Activate the Move Tool
Next, activate the Move tool by clicking on its icon in the toolbar or by pressing the “M” key on your keyboard. The Move tool allows you to move and copy objects.
Step 3: Create the First Copy
Click on the selected object and drag it horizontally or vertically while holding down the Ctrl key (Command key on Mac) to create the first copy. The Ctrl key ensures that you are making a copy rather than moving the original object.
Step 4: Set Array Parameters
After creating the first copy, release the mouse button and enter one of two possible inputs:
- Number: Type in the desired number of copies you want to create.
- Spacing: Enter a specific distance between each object.
For example, if you want to create four equally spaced copies, enter “4” as the number input. If you prefer to specify a specific distance between each object, enter the desired spacing value.
Step 5: Complete the Array
Press Enter or click anywhere outside the input box to complete the array. SketchUp LayOut will automatically generate the remaining copies based on your inputs.
Creating a Radial Array
In addition to linear arrays, SketchUp LayOut also allows you to create radial arrays. A radial array distributes copies of an object or group in a circular pattern.
Step 1: Select the Object
Start by selecting the object or group that you want to duplicate. Use the selection tool to choose the element you wish to duplicate.
Step 2: Activate the Rotate Tool
Click on the Rotate tool icon in SketchUp LayOut’s toolbar or press the “Q” key on your keyboard to activate it. The Rotate tool allows you to rotate objects around a point.
Step 3: Set Rotation Center
Click once on the center point around which you want to create your radial array. This point will act as the rotation center for all copies.
Step 4: Create Copies
While holding down the Ctrl key (Command key on Mac), click and drag in a circular motion around the rotation center. As you drag, SketchUp LayOut will create copies of your selected object.
Step 5: Set Array Parameters
After creating the first copy, release the mouse button and enter one of two possible inputs:
- Number: Type in the desired number of copies you want to create.
- Angle: Enter a specific angle between each object.
Specify either a number or an angle based on your requirements. For example, entering “6” as the number input will create six equally spaced copies around the rotation center. Alternatively, you can enter a specific angle value to determine the spacing between each copy.
Step 6: Complete the Array
Press Enter or click outside the input box to complete the radial array. SketchUp LayOut will automatically generate copies based on your inputs, arranged in a circular pattern around the rotation center.
Conclusion
Arrays in SketchUp LayOut are a powerful tool that can significantly speed up your design process. Whether you need to create linear or radial arrays, this technique allows you to duplicate objects or groups efficiently.
By following these simple steps and utilizing SketchUp LayOut’s intuitive interface, you can easily create arrays that enhance your designs.