Guides/SketchUp for Laser Cutting
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Google SketchUp is a powerful, free, easy to use 3D CAD package by Google. It is normally used for producing 3D models many of which you'll find on Google Earth. It's intuitive interface had me hooked and I've created a fair few 3D models.
When I wanted to create designs for the laser I had a go with QCad but found the learning curve quite steep and was left frustrated. However, with a little research I found that it is entirely possible to use SketchUp in a 2D mode and export designs in a Laser Cutter compatible DXF format.
If you have any questions regarding SketchUp I'll do my best to answer them --Teabot
Why use Google SketchUp
- Free
- Easy to use
- Intuitive
- Gentle learning curve
- Available for Windows/Mac
- Lots of videos and tutorials available online
- Books available but rarely needed
- Some common components that you might wish to use in a laser cut enclosure are already available in the Google 3D warehouse. These can be useful for creating panel cut-outs and mounting holes.
Information
- SketchUp homepage - download from here.
- Using Google SketchUp in 2D mode - Essential for producing designs for the laser cutter.
- SketchUp DXF exporter - Free Ruby plug-in - SketchUp professional not required.
Exporting
Make sure that you have installed the DXF export plug-in.
- Go to: Tools/Export to DXF or STL
- Export units: millimeters
- Export to DXF: lines
