How to Convert SketchUp to CAD

You can create 3D content using CAD software.

SketchUp is Google's 3D modeling program. It was designed to be more intuitive and easier to use than most CAD (computer-aided design) software packages. Most CAD software is put to industrial use by engineers, architects and draftsmen to create 3-D computer models. SketchUp is a simplified 3-D model creation tool that allows average users to create content; it is, however, a very sophisticated piece of software. Models created in SketchUp can be exported and used in other CAD software.

Things You'll Need

• Google SketchUp Pro (any version)

Instructions

1. Go to the File menu and select "Open."

2. Select the file you wish to open and double-click it.

3. Go to the File menu.

4. Select "Export" and choose "3D Model."

5. Type in the file name and the location you would like to save the file in the dialog box.

6. Select the format of 3D CAD you would like to export from the drop-down menu and click the "Export" button.

Tips & Warnings

• Export to CAD formats is not supported in the free Google SketchUp; it is a feature of Sketchup Pro, only.

References

• Google: SketchUp: 3D Model (DWG/DXF) Export
• Google: What makes SketchUp great?