I’m trying to identify the most efficient process for importing a collada file (from Chief Architect) containing cabinets into SU where I can finish modeling them and produce material schedules using CutList. The 3D objects import very cleanly, but I’m finding it time consuming to create SU components from the imported objects. Attached is an example. After a day of research, I’ve concluded the best workflow will be to use the the CabinetSense plugin to essentially redraw the objects and only use the imported object for measurements. Wondering if anyone in the community has done something like this and found a more efficient workflow. Thanks!
Based on what little I can see in your screenshot I think I would use the import as a reference to model the components for the cabinet from scratch. Since a piece like this has so much symmetry you reallyonly need to model about half of it, the other parts would just be copies. If you need to model things like stub tenons on door rails or other joinery, that would be easier (and probably more accurate) to do working from scratch, too.
Presumably you’ll have more than one base cabinet but since many parts will be identical across those cabinets, you don’t need to model them over and over. Just make copies of the existing ones.
Hi Dave. I’m just coming back to Sketchup after a few years and a lot has changed since then. Thought it would be a good idea to ask before setting off building from scratch. Really appreciate your advice!
BTW, before you get too far into things, carefully check the dimensions of your imported geometry. The last thing you want to do is compound errors if they exist.
Also if you haven’t done it, make sure to untick the box for Length Snapping in Window>Model Info>Units.
