How Do I Import SketchUp Into OpenStudio?

Are you looking to import your SketchUp models into OpenStudio for energy analysis? Look no further! In this tutorial, we will walk you through the process step by step.

Step 1: Install OpenStudio Plugin

Before we begin, make sure you have the OpenStudio plugin installed in your SketchUp software. If you haven’t installed it yet, head over to the SketchUp Extension Warehouse and download the plugin. Once downloaded, simply follow the installation instructions provided.

Step 2: Prepare Your SketchUp Model

Now that you have the OpenStudio plugin installed, open your SketchUp model that you want to import into OpenStudio. Ensure that your model is properly constructed with all necessary components such as walls, floors, windows, and doors. It’s also important to check for any missing or overlapping geometry and fix them if necessary.

Organizing Your Model

To make the import process smoother, it’s recommended to organize your model using groups and components. This will help maintain separate entities within your model and avoid any complications during import.

Assigning Spaces

In order for OpenStudio to accurately analyze energy consumption within your model, it needs to understand the different spaces in your building. Assigning spaces involves grouping related objects together so that they can be easily identified by OpenStudio.

  • Select all objects that belong to a particular space.
  • Right-click, choose ‘Make Group’, and give it an appropriate name.
  • Repeat this process for all spaces in your building.

Step 3: Launch OpenStudio

With your SketchUp model ready, it’s time to launch OpenStudio and import your model.

Accessing OpenStudio

OpenSketchUp and navigate to the ‘Extensions’ tab in the menu bar. Click on ‘OpenStudio’ and select ‘Import Model’.

Selecting Your Model

Browse your computer for the SketchUp model you want to import into OpenStudio. Once you’ve located it, click on ‘Import Model’.

Step 4: Review Import Results

After importing your SketchUp model into OpenStudio, a dialog box will appear displaying the import results. This will include information about any errors or warnings that occurred during the import process.

Error Resolution

If you encounter any errors, carefully read the error message and make necessary changes to your SketchUp model. Common errors include missing geometry, overlapping surfaces, or improperly assigned spaces.

Note: It’s important to resolve all errors before proceeding with energy analysis in OpenStudio.

Step 5: Perform Energy Analysis

Congratulations! You have successfully imported your SketchUp model into OpenStudio. Now it’s time to perform energy analysis and gain valuable insights into your building’s energy performance.

OpenStudio offers a wide range of tools and features for energy analysis such as HVAC system selection, daylighting simulation, and thermal comfort analysis. Explore these features and customize them according to your project requirements.

In Conclusion

In this tutorial, we covered the step-by-step process of importing SketchUp models into OpenStudio for energy analysis. Remember to install the OpenStudio plugin, prepare your SketchUp model by organizing spaces, launch OpenStudio, review import results, and perform energy analysis. With OpenStudio’s powerful tools, you can optimize your building’s energy performance and make informed design decisions.

Now it’s time to put your knowledge into practice and start analyzing your SketchUp models in OpenStudio. Happy modeling!