Trimble Releases SketchUp 2014 with Integrated BIM
Trimble Buildings Group recently released the latest version of SketchUp with SketchUp 2014. SketchUp is currently considered as the most widely used 3D modeling software for professionals in the architecture, engineering, construction and interior design industry.
SketchUp 2014 features the same simple tool features. The new 3D warehouse which can be used to find, store and share 3D models by users is made more comprehensive and organized. An additional helpful feature in this version is its WebGL integration allowing users to preview and orbit the models before placing them into their models or saving them for later use. In addition, 3D models of 50 megabytes can now be uploaded into the warehouse instead of the past 10 megabytes limitation.
Another innovation in the SketchUp 2014 version is the integrated Building Information Modeling (BIM). According to the company, the SketchUp 2014 Pro has “interoperability with other commonly used tools and data” which have undergone significant improvement.
The newest version of the 3D modeling software features three tools. The IFC export tool allows files to be exported into IFC 2x3 file types allowing it to be used in IFC-supported programs. The pre-loaded IFC Classifier feature along will let users modify classification types or develop customized systems according to the user’s needs. Management of IFC data can be edited according to its classification type through the use of the Components Options feature.
According to John Bacus, SketchUp product management director, “BIM workflows are often complex and rigid processes and we believe they don’t need to be. With this new release, we are enabling users to participate more effectively at any point in the information modeling process.” Bacus added that the new feature is a simple tool in structuring model information when using SketchUp Pro. This will allow the users to “easily pass information to others on their project teams, regardless of the tools being used.”