Import Sketch Up Models into AutoCAD 2013!

I’ve been looking for a Google Sketch Up import for AutoCAD for a while. I installed AutoCAD 2013 yesterday to try out this plug-in. I’m actually using AutoCAD Civil 3D 2013. The free Sketch Up import plug-in I’m using is posted on the Autodesk Exchange App web site. Here is the link directly to the Sketch Up plug-in.

http://apps.exchange.autodesk.com/CIV3D/Detail/Index?id=appstore.exchange.autodesk.com%3asketchupimport%3aen

The plug-in is compatible with the following software.

AutoCAD 2013

AutoCAD Architecture 2013

AutoCAD Mechanical 2013

AutoCAD MEP 2013

Autodesk AutoCAD Civil 3D 2013

1.    Save the plug-in to a folder.

2.    Install the plug-in.

3.    Once installed, launch AutoCAD 2013.

4.    The Sketch Up plug-in installed a new tab on the Ribbon.

5.    If you have a Sketch Up model ready to import, click “Import SKP File”.

6.    If you need to find Sketch Up model on the internet, click “Get 3D Model”.

a.    The Get 3D Model will redirect you to Google’s 3D Warehouse.

7.    I’ve modeled a number of buildings and other items for Google Earth. I’m going to use one of my own models.

a.    Here’s a link to my Sketch Up models. Models by Vince - Google 3D Warehouse

8.    I downloaded the S. A. Burnette Hall model. It’s a building at a local community college.

10.  Save the file to the project folder.

11.  Tab over the AutoCAD.

12.  Click the “Import SKP File” on the ribbon.

13.  Choose the SKP file.

14.  Place the model a location. I choose 0,0,0.

15.  Rotate the view to see the model in prospective.

16.  Change the visual style from 2D wireframe to Realistic.

17.  Notice the textures were also imported from the Sketch Up model. It seems they lost the alignment. They can be adjusted in the Materials Editor.

Enjoy importing Sketch Up models into AutoCAD 2013. There are an unlimited number of models in Google’s 3D Warehouse.