Joint Push Pull is a powerful plugin for SketchUp that allows you to create complex 3D geometry by pushing or pulling multiple connected faces simultaneously. This tool is a game-changer for architectural and product design, as it can save you time and effort when creating intricate models.
How to Install Joint Push Pull
Before we dive into the functionality of Joint Push Pull, let’s start with the installation process:
- Open SketchUp and go to the “Extensions” menu.
- Select “Extension Warehouse” from the dropdown menu.
- In the Extension Warehouse window, search for “Joint Push Pull” in the search bar.
- Click on the “Install” button next to the Joint Push Pull plugin.
- Once installed, close the Extension Warehouse window. The plugin is now ready to use!
Using Joint Push Pull
Now that you have successfully installed Joint Push Pull, let’s explore its features:
Selecting Faces
To start using Joint Push Pull, you need to select the faces you want to push or pull. You can select individual faces by clicking on them or use selection tools like the rectangle or lasso selection tool to select multiple faces at once.
Pushing and Pulling
To push or pull selected faces with Joint Push Pull, follow these steps:
- Select the “Push/Pull” tool from SketchUp’s toolbar or go to “Extensions” > “JointPushPull” > “Push/Pull”.
- Click on one of the selected faces and move your cursor inwards or outwards. You will see all the selected faces being pushed or pulled simultaneously.
- Release the mouse button to finalize the push or pull operation.
You can also use numerical input to specify the exact distance of the push or pull. Simply type in the desired value after selecting the faces, and Joint Push Pull will perform the operation accordingly.
Offsetting Edges
In addition to pushing and pulling faces, Joint Push Pull also allows you to offset edges. This feature is useful when you want to create chamfers or fillets on your geometry.
- Select the “Offset Edges” tool from SketchUp’s toolbar or go to “Extensions” > “JointPushPull” > “Offset Edges”.
- Click on one of the edges you want to offset and move your cursor inwards or outwards. All connected edges will be offset simultaneously.
- Release the mouse button to finalize the offset operation.
Tips for Using Joint Push Pull Effectively
To make the most out of Joint Push Pull, keep these tips in mind:
- Grouping Faces: If you want to push or pull multiple faces that are not connected, group them together before using Joint Push Pull. This way, they will behave as a single entity.
- Undo and Redo: If you make a mistake while using Joint Push Pull, don’t worry!
You can always use SketchUp’s undo and redo functionality to revert or repeat your actions.
- Keyboard Shortcuts: To speed up your workflow, consider assigning keyboard shortcuts for Joint Push Pull’s tools. This way, you can access them quickly without navigating through menus.
Joint Push Pull is a versatile plugin that can take your SketchUp modeling to the next level. With its ability to push, pull, and offset faces and edges simultaneously, you can create intricate designs efficiently. Install this plugin today and unlock new possibilities in your 3D modeling journey!