Chapter 1. Exporting to CAD, Illustration, and Other Modeling Software

In This Chapter

  • Finding out about vector graphics

  • Generating 2D files for CAD and illustration software

  • Exporting your model to other 3D software

Don't you hate how airlines make you walk through the first-class section to get to your seat? I think the economy section is bad enough without having to see how much better some people have it — the big, cushy seats, the dinner entrees made with real meat — I'm usually in a bad mood by the time I sit down. But what does this have to do with export formats in SketchUp Pro? It's all about knowing what you're not getting.

If you don't have the Pro version of SketchUp, don't bother reading this chapter. The stuff I talk about only applies to those folks who have sprung for the bells-and-whistles version of SketchUp. Now, if you're using Google SketchUp (free), and you're wondering what's in Pro, you might find it useful to peruse these pages to see what you're missing. Unlike the flight attendant on the last plane I was on, I won't yell at you for sticking your head through the curtain to take a look around.

SketchUp Pro users have access to a few file export formats that aren't avail-able in the free version of SketchUp. These file formats let you share your work with other "pro-grade" software programs like Illustrator, AutoCAD, and 3D Studio MAX. Most people who design things for a living use a number of differ-ent pieces of software to get their work done, and they need ...

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