In Sketchup, getting a 2D elevation is a useful technique for visualizing and presenting your designs. It allows you to showcase the vertical aspects of your model in a simplified manner. In this tutorial, we will explore the steps to create a 2D elevation in Sketchup.
Step 1: Selecting the View
To begin, open your Sketchup model and navigate to the desired view that you want to create an elevation of. This can be done by using the navigation tools such as orbit, pan, and zoom. Once you have chosen the appropriate view, proceed to the next step.
Step 2: Creating a New Scene
In Sketchup, scenes are used to save different camera positions and settings. To create a new scene for your elevation view, go to the “Window” menu and select “Scenes” from the drop-down list.
In the Scenes dialog box, click on the “+” button to add a new scene. A new scene tab will appear at the top of the Sketchup window.
Step 3: Adjusting Camera Settings
Now that you have created a new scene, it’s time to adjust the camera settings for your elevation view. Make sure that you are still in the desired view by checking if everything looks correct from this angle.
Note: It’s important to align your camera parallel to the plane you want to create an elevation of. This will ensure that your elevation appears as a true representation of that plane.
To adjust camera settings, right-click on your newly created scene tab and select “Edit” from the context menu. In the “Scene” dialog box, make sure that only “Camera Location” is checked under “Properties to Save”.
This will lock in the camera position for your elevation view. Once you have made the necessary adjustments, click on the “Update” button to save the changes.
Step 4: Creating a 2D Elevation
Now that you have set up your camera settings, it’s time to create a 2D elevation using Sketchup’s native tools.
Option 1: Using the Section Plane Tool
The Section Plane tool allows you to cut through your model and create a section view. To use this tool, go to the “Tools” menu, select “Section Plane” from the drop-down list, and place it in your desired location.
Adjust the section plane as needed by dragging its endpoints or edges. Once you are satisfied with the position of the section plane, right-click on it and select “Create Group from Slice” or “Create Group from Cut”. This will create a new group representing your elevation view.
Option 2: Using the Export 2D Graphic Tool
If you prefer not to use the Section Plane tool, Sketchup offers another way to export a 2D graphic of your model. Go to the “File” menu, select “Export”, and choose “2D Graphic” from the options.
In the Export dialog box, specify the desired image format (e.g., PNG or JPEG) and adjust other settings if necessary. Finally, click on “Export” to generate a 2D image of your current view.
Step 5: Fine-tuning Your Elevation
After creating a 2D elevation, you may want to make some adjustments or enhancements for better clarity and presentation.
- Crop: Use an image editing software like Photoshop or GIMP to crop the exported image and remove any unnecessary elements.
- Annotation: Add dimensions, labels, or other annotations to indicate important features or measurements in your elevation.
- Styling: Apply appropriate line weights, colors, or textures to enhance the visual appeal of your elevation.
By following these steps and fine-tuning your elevation, you can effectively communicate your design intent and showcase the vertical aspects of your Sketchup model.
In conclusion, creating a 2D elevation in Sketchup is a straightforward process that involves selecting the view, creating a new scene with adjusted camera settings, and using either the Section Plane tool or exporting a 2D graphic. By fine-tuning your elevation with cropping, annotations, and styling techniques, you can create visually engaging presentations.