What Is SketchUp Ruby API?

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The SketchUp Ruby API is a powerful tool that allows developers to extend the functionality of SketchUp, a popular 3D modeling software. With the Ruby API, developers can create plugins and scripts that automate tasks, add new tools and features, and manipulate geometry within SketchUp.

Why Use the SketchUp Ruby API?

There are several reasons why you might want to use the SketchUp Ruby API:

  • Automation: The API allows you to automate repetitive tasks, saving you time and effort. You can create scripts that perform complex operations with just a few lines of code.
  • Customization: With the Ruby API, you can customize SketchUp to fit your specific needs.

    You can create custom tools, modify existing ones, and add new features that are not available out of the box.

  • Data Manipulation: The API provides access to SketchUp’s underlying data structure, allowing you to manipulate geometry, materials, textures, and more. You can create complex models programmatically or modify existing ones.

Getting Started with the SketchUp Ruby API

To get started with the SketchUp Ruby API, you need some basic knowledge of programming in Ruby. If you’re new to Ruby, there are plenty of online resources available to help you learn the language.

The first step is to install SketchUp on your computer. Once installed, open SketchUp and navigate to Window > Preferences > Extensions. Check the box next to “Ruby Console” to enable it.

Now that you have access to the Ruby Console, you can start writing and executing Ruby code within SketchUp. Open the console by going to Window > Ruby Console or by pressing Ctrl+L (or Command+L on Mac).

Creating Your First Plugin

Let’s create a simple plugin that adds a new menu item to SketchUp:

  1. Create a new Ruby file with a .rb extension (e.g., my_plugin.rb).
  2. Add the following code to your file:
require 'sketchup'

module MyPlugin
  def self.add_menu_item
    UI.menu('Plugins').add_item('My Plugin') do
      UI.messagebox('Hello, SketchUp!')
    end
  end
end

unless file_loaded?(__FILE__)
  UI.add_context_menu_handler do |context_menu|
    MyPlugin.add_menu_item
  end

  file_loaded(__FILE__)
end

Save the file and place it in the Plugins folder within SketchUp’s installation directory. Restart SketchUp if it’s already running.

You should now see a new menu item called “My Plugin” under the Plugins menu. When you click on it, a message box saying “Hello, SketchUp!” will appear.

Conclusion

The SketchUp Ruby API is a powerful tool for extending the functionality of SketchUp. Whether you want to automate tasks, customize the software, or manipulate geometry, the API provides all the tools you need. With some programming knowledge and creativity, you can create plugins and scripts that take your SketchUp experience to the next level.