July 30, 2023  Drill Part 3--SketchUp (Free Online Version)

Part 3 of the Drill Bit project includes the addition of the shank.  The hexagonal shank section of the drill was designed for keyless drill chucks.   Metal Material has been retained on the cutting edges, point, and added to the  hexagonal end of the shank.  Red was applied to the rest of the drill bit for better contrast.  

The Images below are screen captures from today's model.*

Here is the link to today's model created with SketchUp's Online Version:  Drill Bit 2023 Pt 3 for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer).  For those who prefer to open it with SketchUp, here is another link to the model downloaded from Trimble Connect: Drill Bit 2023 Pt 3 (requires a newer version of SketchUp or SketchUp Free to open; however, SketchUp Make is no longer compatible).
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*Also included are several images of auger bits for wood and a metal drill bit created in 2021 and 2022, respectively.  This design features a much thicker segment that was duplicated, rotated about the center, and aligned similar to today's project but with a more complex segment shape (refer to links listed here and in the following paragraph).   They have a single flute and a tapered screw at the point:  Wood Auger Bits 2021 for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer).

Here are links to one of the SketchUp Make files that show the step-by-step layout in detail (created in 2021):  Wood Auger Bit Detail (requires SketchUp to open).  The link for the SketchUp Viewer option is:  Wood Auger Bit Detail for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer--will open in your browser).

More examples of drill bit design are posted in the 2021--2022 Archive linked at the top of this page.  Related topics are posted on the following dates:  October 17, 2021; Jan. 10, April 16, 21, 25; and May 24, 2022--Drill Bit with Clearance (requires SketchUp to open) or Drill Bit with Clearance for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer).

Note:  As with all of my SketchUp models, they are not intended to be functional for a specific purpose other than for illustration.

 July 29, 2023  Drill Part 2--SketchUp (Free Online Version)

Part 2 of the Drill Bit projects shows the stages for drawing the 3D drill bit's point.  Note that the drill bit was drawn with three flutes and cutting surfaces instead of the usual two.

The Images below are screen captures from today's model.

Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp's Online Version:  Drill Bit 2023 Pt 2 for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer).  For those who prefer to open it with SketchUp, here is another link to the model downloaded from Trimble Connect:  Drill Bit 2023 Pt 2 (requires a newer version of SketchUp or SketchUp Free to open; however, SketchUp Make is no longer compatible).

 July 28, 2023  Drill Bit Part 1--SketchUp (Free Online Version)

Stacked cross sections of a drill bit were rotated to form a 3D image.  In past years, I have done this using the 2017 Version of SketchUp Make (free version), but have now discovered superior results can be obtained using SketchUp's online version.  The Edge Smoothing feature really does a nice job in the updated version.

The Images below are screen captures from today's model.

I was not concerned with the correctness of the flutes and the number of twists.  There was no angle offset for cutting edge clearance needed to prevent binding.  The intent of this model is to show a nicely formed 3D spiral that will eventually resemble a drill bit for boring metal.

Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp's Online Version:  Drill Bit 2023 Pt 1 for Viewer (non-editable in Viewer).  For those who prefer to open it with SketchUp, here is another link to the model downloaded from Trimble Connect:  Drill Bit 2023 Pt 1 (requires a newer version of SketchUp or SketchUp Free to open; however, SketchUp Make is no longer compatible).

 July 25, 2023  Bolt Chamfers and Thread Runout--SketchUp with Twilight Render Extension

Many previous posts have demonstrated various ways to create bolt threads with chamfers and thread runout on both ends. Thread runout has always been a stumbling block for me--especially in early models where threads simply stopped.

There are many wishy washy ways to cover up flaws in thread runout.  Today's model is probably the best example of thread runout that I've created to date.  The chamfers at the neck and at the end of the bolt are both 45 degree angles.  The thread chamfer created at the lower end of the neck that contacts the threads has a 30 degree angle that matches the thread's half angles.

The toughest part of getting a realistic upper thread runout that is similar to a bolt turned on a metal lathe is to make sure the clearance/gutter/thread relief drawn between the shank's diameter and the minor diameter of the bolt are equal and align with the top thread.  Metal lathe machinists cut the clearance/gutter/thread relief a few thousandths deeper than the minor diameter, thereby defining where the thread terminates and the horizontally cut clearance begins.  It's easier with SketchUp to draw the clearance diameter the same as the minor diameter of the thread.

Note also that other liberties have been taken when drawing 3D SketchUp models and renderings of threaded bolts, herein, since the actual machining process is quite different.  For instance, the lathe's cutting tool shape/profile and lathe setup/gearing were nonfactors.  I have attempted to avoid muddling the two processes.

Today's helix style bolt design was based on a 120 segment circle for a smooth appearance.  The bolt radius was 2400mm instead of 1/2" with no reduction for a nominal diameter.  The finished bolt can easily be scaled to a 1" diameter after completion.  Lastly, the thread pitch is 8 threads per inch.  Images of the completed bolt and chamfer details are shown below.

Here is today's link to the SketchUp Make file:  Chamfers and Thread Runout (requires SketchUp to open).  I have also included a SketchUp Viewer option that opens in the web browser:  Chamfers and Thread Runout for Viewer (Non-editable in Viewer).

 July 16, 2023  Covered Wagon Undercarriage Revision--SketchUp with Twilight Render Extension

Today's post shows the third version of the Covered Wagon Model with an improved undercarriage.  After viewing a YouTube video (link posted on July 11), I was able to draw most major parts more accurately.  I have omitted U-bolts and other lesser fasteners and braces that did not render clearly--too many components cluttered the view (see images below).

Here is today's link to the third version that was completed with SketchUp Make:  Covered Wagon Undercarriage Revision (requires SketchUp to open).  I have also included a SketchUp Viewer option that opens in the web browser:  Covered Wagon Revision for Viewer (Non-editable in Viewer).

The second image set shows the disassembled version of the Covered Wagon.  Here are the links to the SketchUp files:  Disassembled Wagon  (requires SketchUp to open) and Disassembled Wagon for Viewer (will open in web browser--non editable).

 July 11, 2023  Covered Wagon Update--SketchUp with Twilight Render Extension

Today's post shows the second version of the Covered Wagon Model.  It turned out to be more work than I had anticipated.  The undercarriage shows only a fraction of the detail that could have been added.  What shows fills up some of the empty space compared to the images posted on July 8.  In the future I will re-post a more accurate version.

Here is the link to the second version that was completed with SketchUp Make:  Covered Wagon Update (requires SketchUp to open).  I have also included a SketchUp Viewer option:  Covered Wagon Update for Viewer (Non-editable in Viewer).

Lastly, in the real world here's how a wagon is made:  Wagon Restoration  YouTube video from Engels Coach Shop.  I'll use this video as a guide for a more accurate drawing and assembly of parts for an upcoming project.  

Some modifications to be addressed include:

• Larger wagon wheel spokes.  What I've drawn are more like buggy spokes.

• Undercarriage scale and shape are wrong.  Parts will need to be redrawn as individual components.

• Wagon bed requres better detail as well as the fitting of the canvas cover.  Attachment fasteners should be evident.

• Add detail for driver seat, etc. and and a brake lever.

 July 8, 2023  Covered Wagon--SketchUp with Twilight Render Extension

After three days, I've got a start on the wagon wheels, wagon bed, bows, and canvas cover (see images below).

A few more days will be required to finish the undercarriage including the front and rear axles, tongue assembly, and linkage.  I'll add a few carriage bolts and metal braces, etc. for cosmetic purposes--I don't intend to make an accurate detailed model.

 July 3, 2023  Triple Lead Screw Drawn with 12 Helixes--SketchUp Free

SketchUp Viewer Option only.  I have created a Triple Lead Thread Screw using the Helix Method to form the Threads.  It was  created from scratch using Sketch Free (Online Version):  Three Lead Screw--Helix Method in Viewer  (SketchUp Viewer models are not editable).  It is being shared on the Trimble cloud.  The model includes details on how to draw and align 12 helixes to scale/deform a 3-lead thread.

A second model was required to complete the step by step process for finishing the Bolt.  The bolt was also drawn entirely from scratch in SketchUp Free.  Here's the Link:  Three Lead Screw Bolt--Helix Method in Viewer.

Below are a few images from the second of today's projects.  Lastly, Scenes have been created for both models that are functional in SketchUp Viewer (Scenes are located in the Views option on the right side of the Viewer window).

Comments.  The model created with the online version of SketchUp took substantially longer to complete than I had expected.  The lag time between drawing pencil lines was greater than SketchUp Make's installed software for this very large model.

I also had a problem zooming in and controlling when to stop.  Also, background geometry was inadvertently erased while erasing intersected lines in tight places.  However, smoothing of multiple line segments seemed to be more efficient than smoothing done with SketchUp Make.  SketchUp Free is excellent for most applications--I just can resist pushing it to its limits.

 June 30, 2023  Segmented Method Triple Lead Screw Update--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

A few modifications were made to the method used for constructing yesterday's 3-lead screw SketchUp model.  Specifically, I had botched the runout and taper at the neck and clearance area.  New SketchUp Make and SketchUp Viewer models have been linked along with another series of images shown below.  They are more precise.

Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp Make:  Triple Lead Screw Update (requires SketchUp to Open).

SketchUp Viewer Option.  This 3-D model can also be viewed in your browser:  Triple Lead Screw Update in Viewer  (SketchUp Viewer is not editable). 

Lastly, here is the scaled down version (SketchUp Make only) with a 1" thread diameter.  The tape measure tool was applied to the 4800mm original thread diameter as shown in the opening screen of the model:  Scaled Down Version (requires SketchUp to open).

SketchUp Viewer Option.  I have Scaled down an existing Quadruple Lead Screw Bolt that was posted to Trimble on June 26.  The updated version is linked here:  Scaled Down Quadruple Lead Screw Bolt in Viewer.  It works about the same when scaled with SketchUp Free (online version of SketchUp) except it's a bit more nuanced (fussy) when affixing the tape measure tool to the diameter length to be spanned.

Instructional Note.  After dragging the tape measure tool across the 4800mm diameter, type 1" in the Measurements Box, press Enter, and confirm message prompt.  Everything is resized relative to the 1" diameter.   The scaling procedure works using either SketchUp Make, image 20, or SketchUp Free, image 21, as shown below.

 June 29, 2023  Segmented Method Triple Lead Screw--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Today's project required substantially more time and effort to complete.  While the thread was easy to draw and bottom chamfer was created without issues, the thread runout at the upper neck was uncooperative.  I really butchered it in a manner of speaking.

Nearing the end of the bolt construction, the model size had become immense and SketchUp Make on my old computer was not behaving well.  Even after isolating the single bolt in a separate file, memory was still an issue.  The next time, I will move only the top area of the thread that is affected by the upper chamfer construction.  It can then be pasted into the original file.

As explained in the previous post:  The chamfer near the neck was manually fabricated due to the complexity of a multiple thread runout.   The new surface for the upper chamfer can be drawn with rectangles and triangles; however, it is much more convenient to use the From Contours tool after selecting an area to be filled.  The area to be filled is defined by connecting lines attached to the neck that originate at the end of each thread's runout.   All line segments within one of three areas are selected to which From Contours is applied.  The first grouped surface is exploded before drawing the second and third surfaces.

Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp Make:  Triple Lead Screw  (requires SketchUp to Open).

SketchUp Viewer Option.  This 3-D model can also be viewed in your browser:  Triple Lead Screw in Viewer  (SketchUp Viewer is not editable). 

 June 26, 2023  Sixteen Helix Quadruple Lead Screw--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Today's project is similar to the June 23 Post.  An expanded thread profile increased the pitch from 800mm to 1600mm.  That is, four 400mm threads running side by side.  A four-lead threaded bolt contains 4 identical threads running parallel to each other.  Their overall travel per revolution is 4x greater than a standard thread,  Four-lead threads can be tightened or loosened faster (fewer turns).  Likewise, the matching nut's internal thread would contain fewer four-lead thread revolutions.

The chamfer near the neck was manually fabricated due to the complexity of a 4 thread runout.   The new surface for the upper chamfer can be drawn with rectangles and triangles; however, it is much more convenient to use the From Contours tool after selecting an area to be filled (see images below).  The area to be filled is defined by connecting lines attached to the neck that originate at the end of each thread's runout.   All line segments within one of four areas are selected to which From Contours is applied.  The first grouped surface is exploded before drawing the second, third, and fourth surface.

The end chamfer runout did not require constructing new surfaces and was done using the same Intersect Selection and trimming technique that was used on the previous models.

Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp Make:  Quadruple Lead Screw  (requires SketchUp to Open).

SketchUp Viewer Option.  This 3-D model can also be viewed in your browser:  Quadruple Lead Screw in Viewer  (SketchUp Viewer is not editable). 

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June 23, 2023  Eight Helix Double Lead Screw--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Multiple Lead Thread examples were posted previously on September 3 and 21, 2021.  The models (see 2021 homepage archive were simple V shaped threads and were created using Thread Segments instead of helix strands.  Images 1--5 below were rendered with Twilight Rendering Extension in SketchUp Make.

A more involved thread profile has been posted below that uses two stacked thread profiles resulting in 8 helix strands (see images 6--12).  The area representing the roots of a double thread are selected and scaled to form an accurate bolt thread.  Here is the link to the model created with SketchUp Make:  Double Lead Screw  (requires SketchUp to Open).

SketchUp Viewer Option.  This 3-D model can also be viewed in your browser:  Double Lead Screw in Viewer  (SketchUp Viewer is not editable).

Finally, the threads were copied to another SketchUp model where the head, neck, and chamfers were added  (images 13--18).  The thread runout at the bottom of the double lead screw shows the indentation on opposites sides of the bolt's lower chamfer.  This is where a matching nut would engage the bolt.  

The runout at the neck shown in the images below resembles the metal lathe turning process.  Here are the links for the second model:  Double Lead Screw Chamfers  (requires SketchUp to open).  SketchUp Viewer link:  Chamfers in Viewer. 

To further explain this, watch the following Youtube video:  Machine Shop Tips #129 Cutting a Double Thread on a Lathe Part 2 tubalcain.  

 June 16, 2023  Recyling Old Projects--SketchUp Make, Twilight Render Extension and GIMP

In 2010 I tried out a new 3D morphing application for creating faces-- can't remember its name.  By stitching together several pictures I was able to create a three dimensional self portrait.  It wasn't a very good facsimile but it provided something to experiment with.  Various morphing or facial distortions were applied to the 3-D model and then saved as 2-D images. 

As a result, I created a singing group of 6 characters and submitted it to Mozzilla.org as a Persona (later called themes) for the Firefox browser.  The link and other examples are given in the March 29, 2023 post on my Home Page.

Today, the Personas image was imported to SketchUp Make.  My first idea was a failed attempt at projecting individual characters onto a 3D background.  Instead, the 2D image was rendered with Twilight Rendering and then opened with GIMP to adjust Contrast and Hue as shown below.

All six morphed characters are bald because the software didn't render hair in the trial version.  That was the only experience I've had with rendering faces until my encounter with Blender--see February 18 and January 3 . . . etc. posted below.  Not much luck there either due to insufficient computer memory and other resources.

  June 4, 2023  Four-Helix Thread Design--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Here is an example of an external thread drawn with SketchUp.  A thread profile and four helixes were applied to a cylinder and then scaled/deformed to create a 1" diameter, 12 TPI (fine) thread.  SketchUp Make 2D Graphic Images and a few Twilight Rendered images are shown below.  The model was intially drawn with a 4800mm diameter.  The final step is to scale it to 1" using the Tape Measure Tool (not shown).

Note:  There are many ways of looking at the thread deformation and scaling process.  Numbering the Helixes: H1, H2, H3, and H4 are shown in the SketchUp model Thread Details V2 that are arranged from the bottom up.  Helixes could also be numbered H1, H2, H3 and H4 if the Helix duplication begins at the top of the thread.  Either way creates a similar thread.  There is also flexibility in the shape of the thread profile (your choice).  Subdividing the Pitch by 1/2, 1/4, 1/8, and 1/16 (using the middle--blue dot) as shown in the Thread Profile is a convenient and accurate feature of SketchUp that eliminates the need to enter rounded values in the Measurements Box.  Similarly, it's more accurate to duplicate and move existing lines (or their subdivisions beginning at the middle--blue dot) rather than to enter an uncertain decimal fractions in the measurements box--namely, rounded values returned by the Dimension Tool.

Here are the links for two versions of SketchUp Make models that illustrate how to create and scale/deform a thread using 4 helixes and simple arithmetic (both versions require SketchUp to open).  Thread Detail V1 was drawn with a 24-Segment Circle and Thread Details V2 has a smoother 96-Segment Circle that forms thread surfaces.  Version 2 has additional information.

You'll need to re-position the view and zoom in to read the numerous text boxes.  Also, be sure to view the bottom of the preliminary thread cyclinders to see how the lower thread profile aligns with the Thread's Minor Diameter and the placement of the Scaling Alignment Guide in the front right corner.   The second Thread Profile positioned 1 thread height higher has been flipped on the red axis and is place at the base on the Major (outside) Thread Diameter.   Its been labeled with h1 -- h4 to show where to move the 3 duplicated helixes, h2, h3, and h4. 

View these labels from the backside for better clarity when duplicating and moving the 3 helixes upward, one at a time. If viewed from the front side, the thread profile obscures the view of the helix alignment because the helixes spiral upward  counter-clockwise.   Helix 1 is the origin located at the base of the thread cylinder.  Duplicate helix 1 and move each to Helix 2, 3, and 4 positions.

Multiple steps become easier with practice.  I've been attempting to simplify the thread drawing process for a long time.  The four-helix process requires these additional steps but the finished threads are very accurate and are worth the extra effort.  Another accurate method for creating threads without using a thread-making extension is shown in the April 10 post below.

SketchUp Viewer Options:  Thread Detail for Viewer and Thread Detail V2 for Viewer (Will open in your browser but are not editable.)

Related Links:  The Purpose of Washers | Machine Drawing  (pdf File), Chapter 5 | Anatomy of a Thread (YouTube Video) | The HIDDEN Screws of PRECISION (YouTube Video).

May 27, 2023  Billiard Cue Design Version 3 (Concluded)--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

The only comment regarding Version 3 is that it contains 6 points.  The original 2 points used in Version 1 were duplicated and rotated 60 degrees (twice more) to create equally spaced points (6 x 60 = 360 degrees).

Finally, SketchUp's Intersect selection option followed by erasing unwanted geometry (lines and surfaces) is the equivalent to using a turning lathe or wood plane to shape (remove materials by subtraction).  Instead of doing this digitally, a lathe cutter removes material down to a pre-determined taper (depth) while the lathe is turning and the cutter or tool is moved hoizontally and downward.

Alternatively, a draw knife and wood plane shaves off material lengthwise while the material is held securely by a fixture such as a clamping mechanism, vise, or wedge.  To maintain an accurate roundness, the cuemaker manually rotates the length of wood material by loosening and retightening the clamp after every horizontal pass or two.  When the tapered cue shafts are close to their finished size, rasps, scrapers, and sanding produce a smooth and even surface.  Wood turning on a lathe also requires multiple types of tools and sanding.

In the manufacturing sector, these processes can be automated.  Identical copies are made much faster than similar hand-made cues.  YouTube videos show many techniques used by cue manufacturers and custom cuemakers.  Very Interesting.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model showing the six-point joining in the butt end of the cue (requires SketchUp to open):  Billiard Cue Design Version 3.  Twilight Rendered and SketchUp Make 2D Graphic Images of the cue are shown below.

SketchUp Viewer Option:  Two-Piece Billiard Cue Design v3. (Will open in your browser but is not editable.)

May 26, 2023  Billiard Cue Design Version 2--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

Billiard Cue Design Version 2 contains more detail regarding joining of the parts used for the ferrule and joint for the two-piece cue.  This design also has four points instead of only only two.  I did not detail the thread at the joint because it is out of sight when the cue is screwed together.  There are many options for completing the joint and methods of securing it. 

I have chosen a design that allows part of the wood at the end of the shaft to be in contact with the wood in the butt end once it is screwed together.  The other elements of the joint may vary depending on the hardware and type of glue or epoxy used for bonding metal, wood, or other natural or man-made materials.

The weight of a cue can be adjusted by selecting dense wood(s) for the butt or by inserting a weight in/on the fat end of the cue.  Weight, diameters, and length may be varied based on user preferences and should stay within the limits specified by the rules of the game.

Note:  For SketchUp design purposes, an X-ray face style view is shown below that identifies where a Weight could be positioned.  When designing your own joint mechanism, consideration must be given to its size--diameter/length, strength, and total weight.  Too much center weight doesn't balance well.

Secondly, the X-ray face style also shows the completed tapered shaft beneath the original stock from which the cue is made.  In SketchUp, this element is required for completing an intersection that scribes the points on the surface of the cue.

Joints become the weak spot of a cue when they are not snugly tightened.  In one instance I watched as a player was putting his cue together while he swiftly walked around the billiard table.  When he turned the corner, he somehow caught the partially fastened cue between his legs and the corner of the table.  His weight plus the leverage on the shaft caused it to snap into two pieces.  The center ferrule and joint could not withstand that amount of force.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model showing a more complex four-point joining in the butt end of the cue (requires SketchUp to open):  Billiard Cue Design Version 2.  Twilight Rendered and SketchUp Make 2D Graphic Images of the cue are shown below.

SketchUp Viewer Option:  Two-Piece Billiard Cue Design v2. (Will open in your browser but is not editable.)

May 25, 2023  Billiard Cue Design--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

A Good Deal!  In recent years, quality Billiard Cues  can be mass produced with precision accuracy and sold at very reasonable prices.  One- and two-piece cues are available depending on your needs.  Several years ago, I bought a two-piece cue with a nice case for $35.00 at a sporting goods store.   This was a well-made cue with a maple shaft, solid joinery, and an Irish linen wrap on the grip.  All of the cues in the display case were similarly marked down for a clearance sale.   I suspect with rising prices the same cue's sale price today would be higher.

With competition from every direction, retail stores will sometimes slash prices and give the consumer a really good deal. Had I purchased through a billiard supply outlet, the case alone would probably have cost twice as much as what I paid for both the cue and case.   Conversations with billiard room proprietors gave me the impression they were not very happy with the deep discounts given by the competition.

DIY Billiard Cues:  Today's SketchUp model is a basic design for a jointed billiard/pool cue I made in 1965.  At the time, I played mostly snooker so I made a more slender shaft to accomodate smaller balls, and another with a slightly larger diameter that was used when playing three cushion billiards and shooting pool.  I sold the first cue to an elderly gentlemen (Come to think of it--he was about my age now).  I had made the cue on a metal lathe in our machine shop.  He thought the cue was something special and offered to buy it for $25.  I remember that ten years later he was still using it.

This was the first and last cue that I made with points on the grip, albeit very basic--I was not equipped to do precision cuts and definitely lacked the required skill and know how.  Pictures of one of the cues can be seen in the 2019 archive linked below.  The cue was over 50 years old when the picture was taken in 2019.  It was used a lot.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model showing the simple two-point joining in the butt end of the cue (requires SketchUp to open):  Billiard Cue Design.  Twilight Rendered and SketchUp Make 2D Graphic Images of the cue are shown below.

After that, I made a few more cues with dowel and pin joinery on the grip.  Eventually, I stopped after plugging up the lathe bedways with wood shavings and sawdust.  More recently (2019) I made a 48" one-piece cue using a saw, draw knife, wood plane, wood rasp, scraper, utility knife, sandpaper, and a Workmate portable bench to hold the cue while planing--no lathe turning was done. (See 2019 Archive (PDF):  January. 13, 17, and April 7, 2019).

Cue Tips:  I also made a few dozen pool cue tips using cowhide and buffalo hide from old belts.  It was necessary to lightly sand the leather to remove tanning and the shiny finish.  I used a 1/2 inch piece of sharpend copper tubing as a punch to form the tip blanks that would later be trimmed to the exact size.

The leather was then soaked in water.  I also tried a solution of vinegar and baking soda on a few but didn't experience any significant difference.  After soaking the punched tip blanks, some were air dried and other were slowly dried in a warm oven.  The leather became very hard.  Some actually became too hard/brittle and didn't stand up well.  I resorted to using just water instead of other additives and stuck with an air drying process instead of baking.

To give the cue tips enough thickness when using cowhide, I laminated two or three layers by gluing separate dried pieces together using Elmer's Carpenter Glue and then compressed the laminations in the jaws of a bench vise for 24 hours.

I found the fastest way to shape cue tips was to use a bench grinder.  A sharp file, emery board, utilty knife, and sandpaper are slow going but can also be used.  The main thing is to not tear the leather or mess up the ferrule after the tip has been glued to the cue.  Care must be taken when using tip scuffers or other devices for dressing cue tips.  If misused, they will cause premature wearing or literally destroy the cue tip.

The weight of a cue can be adjusted by selecting dense wood(s) for the butt or by inserting a weight in/on the fat end of the cue.  Weight, diameters, and length may be varied based on user preferences and should stay within the limits specified by the rules of the game.

SketchUp Viewer Option:  Two-Piece Billiard Cue Design. (Will open in your browser.)

May 18, 2023  Knurled Set Screws--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

The following custom screw design is based on a 1" diameter, 12 TPI bolt thread but is intended to be scaled smaller for an adjustable set screw that can be snugged up either by hand or tightened further with an Allen Wrench.

The knurled head consists of 24 sections (segments) each containing 60 raised bumps.  They are staggered in a checkboard pattern that alternate flat space with raised four-sided blunt pyramids.

To make the knurling appear uniform between segments, it was necessary to angle the interior sides of each bump 7.5 degrees.  The exterior walls of outer bumps remained perpendicular because there is a natural 15 degree angle between each of the 24 line segments.  That is, of the 60 bumps per segment, the outer twelve (six on each side) were perpendicular facing out.  However, the inside walls were sloped 7.5 degrees.  By doing this, all adjacent bumps were angled 15 degrees as they circumnavigated the screw even though most of the surfaces were flat.

Once again, the project has not been scaled down to 1 inch.  The bolt diameter remains at 4800mm.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model: Knurled Head Allen Screws (requires SketchUp to open).  

SketchUp Viewer Options:  A down-sized version of today's model can be viewed here without having SketchUp installed:  Knurled Set Screw.  Also, here is a link that shows the process for creating the thread portion using SketchUp Free:  Perfect Thread Method (will open in SketchUp Viewer). 

April 10, 2023  Drawing Bolts--Segment Method--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

Today's project shows the same thread size as in the April 10 post below.  The head and shank are slightly different but the thread diameter and pitch are the same (1" diameter and 12 TPI).

This model uses individually aligned thread segments to form 1 thread revolution instead of distorting the root of a 4-helix cyclinder.

Below are three rendered images and a few screen shots from the SketchUp file.

Again, the project has not been scaled down to 1 inch.  The bolt diameter remains at 4800mm.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  96 Segment -- 12 TPI Bolt (requires SketchUp to open).

April 10, 2023  Drawing Bolts--Four Helix Method--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension.

This is somewhat reptitious, but if this is you first time visiting this website, there are a lot more examples and images to view pertaining to drawing bolts, screws, and other twisty things.

Today's project was a fine thread one-inch bolt.  Below are two rendered images and a few screen shots from the SketchUp file.

Lastly, one step remains to be done.  Currently, the bolt diameter is 4800mm.  It can be easily resized by scaling the bolt diameter to the intended 1" using the tape measure tool.  Metric to Imperial conversion is no problem.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  One-Inch 12 TPI Bolt  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 27, 2023  Functional Fish-eye and 35mm Lenses--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

The final project modeling glass is a followup on yesterday's lens project.

I have defintely bit off more than I could chew in trying to get clusters of various shaped lenses to focus.  I got some very strange and wild images.

When using SketchUp with Twilight Rendering Extension it is possible to capture fish-eye and conventional lens shapes.  Well, almost possible.  The limitation of being unfamiliar with  optics  resulted in lot of guesswork and repetition during the past two days of play.

To make navigation of the Lens model more user friendly, I have set up Scenes in the SketchUp file that jump from the eye piece view of either the fish-eye or the 35mm lens to an auto zoom by clicking the next Scene tab. 

If you have Twilight Render enabled,  you could render them  yourself with a few simple Material and Environmental settings  adjustments.  You will need to assign glass material to the lens (Use SketchUp Color and uncheck cast shadow).

A few of the renderings in relatively sharp focus are shown in the image set below.  Also tracing lenses, layout, and drawing are illustrated.

Another "fun" project.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Fish-Eye and 35mm Lenses  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 26, 2023  Magnifying Glass--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

This SketchUp model represents a 3D magnifying glass that actually works.  Twilight Rendering Extension bends or refracts light and I thought I'd use it in a more controlled manner.

It was necessary to adjust the thickness of the bi-convex lens in order to alter the focal length.  Also, the distance between the magnifying glass and the object being viewed was crucial.  This was done by moving the magnifiying glass up or down above the object until a test render correctly magnified the object (see images below). 

The project includes two sizes of magnifying glasses--the larger is 2x the diameter of the smaller.  The larger magnifier is more adjustable (up and down) and has less distortion.

This project produces a change in the appearance of the object without physically doing it with SketchUp Tools as it would normally be done.  A fun project.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Magnifying Glass  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 25, 2023  Short and Tall Vase with Infinite Background--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Today, a simple 8-sided vase was drawn and rendered very much like the previous posts made during March.  One difference in the layout is the addition of an infinite backgroud.

Unlike previous flat bases on which earlier models were positioned, today's base also curves upward seamlessly until it terminates at the top border of the image.  It is best applied for ground level or slightly angled camera positions.  Other background options would be vertical walls, scenery, a view to the horizon, or to simply disappear into the void that falls off the edge of the base.

Two basic vase shapes are shown. The first vase is short relative to its width.  The Tall vase was scaled 1.75x taller and the horizontal dimensions remained the same.  Various rendering settings are displayed in the images below along with several layout images that show vase construction.  

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Short and Tall Vase  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 21, 2023  Glass Mug Versions 3 and 4 (Completed)--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Version 3:

Here is my third attempt at modeling a Glass Mug.  This version uses a much more effective and simpler way to apply the octagonal bottom to the circular top of the mug. (see yesterday's post below).  Today's layout out required closer attention to alignment.  With that said, the alignment was  still not perfect for obtaining a clean intersection of upper and bottom elements of the mug.

The Version 3 mug is slightly taller.  The diameter remained the same.  I have tinted the glass on a couple of renderings. The base of the mug correctly transitions into the base in this version.

I'm unhappy with my lack of skill when applying lighting and other settings to the Twilight Renderings.  It has been mostly trial and error.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Glass Mug Version 3  (requires SketchUp to open).

Version 4:

Persistence is the name of the game.  After four tries, all the pieces finally came together.  Version 4 required a couple of corrections to the Version 3 layout due to my misconception of the shape of the Octagonal intersecting section.  Changes are illustrated in detail in the second image set below.  A few renderings show a mug that is half full of liquid.

I have also included actual photos of a mug I use to sip cranberry juice while sitting at the computer.  Sorry about its grubby appearance.  The reflective light passing through the juice is similar to what was rendered today.

It's difficult rendering glass--so much of it is transparent.

Lastly, no Twilight Render post-processing or touch up with the GIMP photo editor was done on any images in Versions 1, 2, 3, or 4.  Most of the commentary explaining Versions 1--3 has been improved upon in Version 4.  It is interesting to note the learning process that took place.  Most steps became simpler when redrawing elements for Version 4.  The ongoing struggle with getting and keeping dimensions precise along with solving the octagonal intersection mystery were the major challenges.

Here is the link to the model:  Glass Mug Version 4 (requires SketchUp to open).

March 20, 2023  Glass Mug Versions 1 and 2--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

Version 1:

What at first seemed to be another easy project turned out to be quite a challenge.  After closer inspection, the Root Beer Mug I was using as a guide had a circular upper top that intersected with a lower octagonal section.  The result was a not-so-good first try with limited camera angles that produced quality renderings.

The best rendering--Image 1 below-- was an overhead angle image with the light rotated 280 degrees which was nearly overhead.   (Rendering was done with Twilight Rendering Extension installed in SketchUp Make). It required about 30 minutes to render (High 7+ Render Quality).

Three other images were each rendered in about 10 minutes and blended in with a poorly chosen marble table top and the dark gray background.  The light position was rotated to 20 Degrees.  All renderings were completed with interior lighting set at level 5  brightness, as was the first.

Also included are several screen shots exported from SketchUp that show the layout steps involved.  The intersection was difficult to align.  Set up required Hiding or Copy and Paste to get at areas that needed to be drawn.  Another try might be what it takes to produce a more fluid model with better rendered images.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Glass Mug Version 1  (requires SketchUp to open).

Version 2:  (a few hours later)

After a bit of deep thinking--squirrel cage acceleration, a few modifications were done to the Glass Mug project.  Here were the changes.

• Changed the table top to a wood material which provided better contrast.

• Reshaped the base of the mug.  It now has a more square profile as it should be.

• Version 1 octagonal flat faces intersected abruptly.  The following 5-step procedure added bevels to the octagon's interesected sections:

1. Used the scaling tool to add a bevel to the front of one intersecting block forming the octagon.  Duplicated and rotate it 45 Degrees into the 7 other positions. 

2. Exploded, Intersected, and erased the rounded face on all 8 sections.

3. Used the Inset Tool to outline the underlying  flat surface of one of the erased areas. 

4. Connected the four corners using diagonal lines to the upper rounded surface corners.

5. The From Contours Tool was used to draw bevels connecting the outer round surface to the underlying flat surface that were flush with the rounded glass. This tedious task was completed on one section of the octagonal surface, grouped, duplicated, and rotated 45 degrees into the 7 other empty positions.

The second image set below shows the modifications that have been made.  Some improvement in overall shape and contrast is noticeable.  There is still room for improvement.

Here is the link for today's second SketchUp model:  Glass Mug Version 2  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 19, 2023  Cut Crystal Vase--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render Extension

The model for today's Cut Glass Vase project was built upon an 18 line segment circle to produce more distinct reflective edges than a vase with smooth sides (90--180 circle segments, e.g.).  This effect is revealed on the upper edges and at the base.

The vase was easy to draw and rendered using the Twilight Extension in about a minute (see images below).

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Cut Crystal Vase  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 18, 2023  Clear and Frosted Glass Vases--SketchUp Make, Twilight Render, and GIMP

Two versions of the vase shown below were rendered.  One was painted with gray 25% translucent glass in SketchUp and was rendered with the Common Glass Template material in Twilight Render.  The  other was painted with the same glass material with the color shifted to a dark pink on the SketchUp color wheel.  It was rendered with Light Frosted Glass in Twilight.

The clear glasss renders  were difficult using both interior and outside lighting. There were many optical illusions making the images difficult to view.  I resorted to a more forgiving frost glass material that produced a more distinct image.  GIMP was used to touch up lighting defects on the handles and on the base.

The longest rendering time was only 25 minutes on one of the clear glass renderings--it didn't appear to be getting any better at that point using the progressive quality option.  The Dark pink/burgundy vase was rendered with the 7+ high quality option that required about 11 minutes to completely render on my computer (see below).

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Glass Vases  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 15, 2023  Depression Era Lemonade Glasses and Pitcher--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render

Lemonade was a popular summertime beverage in the early days.  Many households had a lemonade pitcher with a set of matching glasses.  The sets were ornate with very delicate glass that would not endure the punishment like their plastic counterparts of today.

Today's SketchUp model approximates a set of such glasses.   My hand drawn design is nowhere close to its colorful glassblown artistry and craftsmanship from that period.   

Below are rendered images where six red and yellow ribbons encircle each glass in a diagonal basket weave design.  Unfortunately, some of the yellow color washed out when rendered with interior lighting.  Rendering images with outdoor lighting did not dissipate the yellow as much.  Those issues were no doubt caused by misapplying Twilight Render's settings.

The basket weave pattern was first drawn in SketchUp.  While in SketchUp, a top view screenshot was saved as a jpeg image and then imported back into SketchUp to be used as a Photo Texture (a material applied with the Eyedropper and Paint Bucket Tools).

Images below show renderings and preliminary screen shots of the layout.  One progressive rendering was run for 4 hours, 30 minutes (Interior #9 Quality). The rest required about 15 minutes using the 7+ High Quality setting.  Most renderings were completed using  Interior Studio Light (Spherical Sky).

A few renderings were also done using Outdoor Light (Physical Sky).  No post processing was completed either with Twilight Render or with GIMP.  A couple images contain place matts that clash with the glasses.  The color pattern should have been less conspicuous (I am not an expert.)

Lastly, I've included several images of a pitcher I'm working on (does not match style of the glasses).  It was frosted using Twilight Render's template materials. The  spout has been edited in GIMP.  Cloning and the  Smudge Tool was used to smooth mistakes--an oversight made early on in the design.  I also had diffiulty intersecting the pattern on the base.  The base was supposed to have a rounded edge, but due to a lack of intersecting geometry the the design, it could not be trimmed as I had initially intended.  No SketchUp model is included  because of these shortcomings (see the second image set below).

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Lemonade Glasses  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 14, 2023  Frosted Drinking Glasses--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

After a blizzard passed through our area this weekend, there were plenty of interesting snow drifts and frost patterns worthy of capturing with the camera.  The image in today's SketchUp model was among the many I had taken.   I applied one of the frost images to the outside surface of the drinking glass in the SketchUp model instead of using the frosted glass option for rendeingr glass with Twilight Render.

The inside of the glass was painted with translucent grey as explained in a few earlier posts from last week.  Each of the three glasses shown in the images had a slightly different area of the frost applied.

When it was time to render witht he Twilight extension.  Common Glass material was assigned to both the inside and outside of the glass.  After a brief rendering in Twilight, GIMP was used to tweak each image with three colors options applied:  Exposure, Hue Chroma, and Color Temperature.

In earlier versions of GIMP I was limited to usually adjusting Brightness and Contrast, Hue, Color Balance, or levels, and then resorted to using the filters.  The three new color options, in my opinion, produce better results with less effort.

The drinking glass was made by extruding (Push/Pull Tool) an inset circle and then widening the brim (Scaling Tool).  The glass's bottom was also pulled up the same thickness as the wall.  A half round edge was placed on the top of the glass (FollowMe Tool).

Steps for creating the drinking glasses and applying the frost texture are shown below along with rendered images.  Twilight renderedImages show before and after differences when GIMP color options were appllied.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Drinking Glasses  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 13, 2023  Scenic Bowl--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Today's Sketchup model was painted with a hazy landscape image.  A jpeg image was colorized with GIMP and edges were trimmed away with white to match the interior and bottom of the bowl before it was applied to the model.

The image was dragged (or it can be imported) into the model. Next, the image was positioned in front of the bowl where it was scaled and aligned to fit the side view dimensions of the selected area--the outer wall surface of the bowl.  It helps to use the Paralell Projection Camera View for the alignment.  The Eyedropper and Paint Bucket  Tools were then used to apply the entire image to both sides of the bowl. 

Steps for creating the bowl are shown in the image set below along with a few rendered images.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Green Bowl  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 11, 2023  Color and Smoothing with GIMP--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Today I logged into 3D Warehouse and downloaded the "1949 Hudson Super Six" from the Transportation, Automobiles Category that I had submitted last May.  I then rendered a side-view image from the model using the Twilight Extension for SketchUp.   Editing the freshly rendered image was a good opportunity to practice Color and Shadow adjustments with the newest version of GIMP.

Specifically, the new features listed beneath GIMP Color options include Color Temperature, Hue Chroma, Shadow- Highlights, and Tone Mapping  to name a few.  I had not edited rendered versions of this model since last year and at that time was still using a very old version of GIMP that was very limited by comparison.

The Rendered version below was progressively rendered for only 15 minutes.  By not rendering too much detail, smoothing of the car exterior was made easier.  The partiially exposed red tailight had to be penciled in.  Also, due to the brief rendering, the word HUDSON  was not revealed on the chrome strip in front of the right wheel well. The trade off was a smoother overall image with improved shadows.  While still not perfect, it is an improvement.

From an angle, the car's image should have included another front wheel.  A minor camera adjustment would have revealed part of the left front wheel.  It's like looking at one-earred high school or college graduation portraits--something's missing.

Three color variations are shown below:  The two blue images represent the new coat of paint we applied to our old car in 1963.  The gray color was the car's original color (actually a shade or two darker).  I wish I still had that Hudson--the memorable sound of its quiet motor/exhaust and the smooth ride.  It was unique.

The SketchUp model for the Hudson is also located in the May, 2022 posts found in the Archive listed on the top of this page.

March 10, 2023  Spoons--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

The SketchUp Spoons project includes detailed views of the layout and a images exported with SketchUp and Twilight Render Extension for SketchUp.

No measured drawing was used for this project.  A teaspoon was used for visual reference, however.  The only decoration on the spoon was a shallow inset on the handle.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Spoons  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 9, 2023  Cereal Bowls--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Today's SketchUp bowl includes a cereal bowl and a table set for breakfast.  Layout images and rendered drawings are shown below.  The Cheerios were made with the FollowMe tool.  The milk was a inner grouping in which individual Cheerios Components were partially submerged at various depths and angles.  As you may have noticed, I poured in too much milk.

The Cereal Bowl was also made with the FollowMe Tool similar to the Sugar Bowl project that was completed on February 28 (see below).

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Cereal Bowls (requires SketchUp to open).

March 7, 2023  Glass Bowls--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Two styles of glass bowls were created today.  Both used common glass Twilight Rendering Template Materials.  One bowl had a second layer of frost  instead of all translucent gray glass added in SketchUp.  The digital image was taken from inside through a frosted-over leaky window in our home.  (It's still cold outside.)

Today's bowl was created  using a slightly different layout approach.  A single-surface layout bowl was first created instead of using the FollowMe Tool to draw a double layer all at once.  The bowl was temporarily grouped, duplicated and resized slight small to represent the inner wall of the glass bowl.  Next, the groups were exploded and a half circle was drawn on the brim to connect the two walls.  The FollowMe Tool was used to complete the rounded edge.

To make life easier for makiing the inner wall, the bowl was first selected and copied. Next, the bowl was scaled to 98--95% (depending on the desired wall thickness). Then, the original copied bowl, with it's original dimensions was Copied in Place.

Some of the bowl images  below have subtle color and light modifications made with GIMP'S color options.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Glass Bowls (requires SketchUp to open).

March 4, 2023  Jewel Encrusted Goblet--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Faceted gemstones were simulated on the surface of today's Gold Goblet project.  When rendering  the most current version, a common glass template material for Twilight Rendering was applied to the Red, Blue, and Green SketchUp colors used for the Jewels.  Copper metal was assigned to the goldenrod SketchUp color that covered the goblet's exterior and interior faces for all six versions included in this post.

In earlier verions, I had first experimented with gray transcluscent SketchUp color tops on the gems with a red or green face beneath. Version 1 jewels didn't reflect light as I had expected.  Next, I painted each jewel's facets with Relflective CarPaint, and in another version tried adding a Twilight Render emitter  template to the jewel colors (obviously misused).  All of the earlier versions did not create the "sparkle" I was seeking.

The biggest stumbling block for successful rendering was the bevels placed around each jewel that represented the gemstone settings.  They varied in size and shape and rendered poorly.  Also, there were too many jewels.  Their close poximity caused unpredictable light bounce and shadows that looked unnatural.  After completing six versions of the goblet, I realized that more was not necessarily better and finally reduced the stones and shapes.  A lesson learned:  A redesigned goblet with fewer uniform-sized jewel settings will yield a more predictable rendering outcome for future projects.

Layout steps were very similar to previous FollowMe tool projects, except today's goblet cylinder was created separately by extruding a circle with an inset for the thickness of the goblet wall. A half circle finished off the top tip of the cylinder.

Version History.  Three bejeweled rings were slipped over the upper section of the goblet instead of trying to attach gems directly to the goblet's wall.  Three styles of gemstones were placed 20 degrees apart.  In Versions 1 and 2, the rings containing the jewels were also rotated to prevent them from vertically aligning with the ring above or below.  Version 3 jewel alignment looks neater without rotating the rings.

Images were progressively rendered with the Twilight Render extension in SketchUp for various lengths of time ranging from only a few minutes to seven hours.   The jewel size was increased in Versions 3--6.

There was an unpleasant dark area at the front of the goblet in every image rendered in Versions 2 and 3.  It only took a few minutes to re-draw the goblet and repaint it to make sure there were no gremlins lurking about on the faces or subsurfaces.  After rendering a test image, the persistent shadow was no longer a distraction for Versions 4--6.

Lastly, jewel count, shape, and color was reduced. The center band of jewels was removed.   SketchUp Red color was applied to diamond-shaped faceted jewels.  A Common Glass  Twilight Material was assigned to the red jewel color.

A single image from Versions 6, 5, and 4 are shown below followed by numerous images from previous versions.  Version 6, 5, and 4 changes were not saved to the SketchUp file.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:  Goblet v3  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 3, 2023  Rendering Glass Objects--SketchUp Make with Twilight Render and GIMP

Long-stemmed glasses were drawn with SketchUp and then rendered with the Twilight Render extension (free version).  Twilight Render has many choices for rendering glass, but the most critical setting for drawing glasses was to uncheck the Cast Shadow option after selecting the common glass material in Twilight's Materials Editor.

In SketchUp I had drawn the model painted and painted it with the gray translucent glass material.  See the SketchUp layout below for creating the long-stemmed glasses model.

Different colored place mats and table tops were used to illustrate how reflectivity affected the appearance of the glasses.  Some combinations have better clarity and are more realistic.

Today's model was created using a 180 line segment FollowMe circle with the Layout drawn approximately 13x larger than the actual rendered model.  By the time the model was scaled to about a 5" diameter, the tiny distances between the 180 segments produced a smooth face on the glass.   After rendering, there were no evidence of roughness or tiny squares.

The high resolution may be overkill, but I became frustrated a few days ago when trying to smooth the March 1 Large Vase model.  I had neglected to scale the intial layout to a smaller size before rendering (see below).  Today's SketchUp model linked below will show the size difference between the Layout model and the final model used for rendering.

Lastly, a gold and silver goblet was rendered by changing the SketchUp and Twilight Render Materials.  SketchUp Glass Material was changed to from Translucent Gray to Translucent Gray Resin Crush (sized adjustment was approximately 50% less).  Twilight's Common Glass Material was changed to Frosted Glass.  Cast Shadows must also be unchecked as previously mentioned. 

After rendering for approximately 15 minutes, there was no indication that the stemmed glasses were going to become translucent.  The decision was made to take the darkish colored glasses and convert them to Gold and Silver metallic versions using GIMP's color adjustments applied to the rendered jpeg image.  The textured metal finish was an unexpected outcome.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Long-Stemmed Glasses  (requires SketchUp to open).

March 1, 2023  Large Vase--Use Correct Scale for Better Rendering

An image of window frost was used to decorate today's model of a large vase.   The first three images below are correctly scaled to about 12 inches tall and 10.4 inches wide.   Rendering was very clear on my fourth try.

I did not fare as well on the first few attempts.  The problem was with the size of the model.  Being somewhat careless, I drew a circle for the base assuming it would be o.k. at whatever size since everything was being eyeballed.  As it turned out, it would not render smoothly with Twilight rendering extension.

After measuring the the diameter of the top of the vase, it turned out to be 575 inches.  Yes, a very large vase.   By scaling it down to about 2% of the model's original size, everything rendered correctly.  A bit of touch up was necessary with GIMP to fix a couple of reflective light distractions.  Contrast and minor color tweaking was done as well on a few rendered images.

Prior attempts have also been posted to illustrate the rough appearance that results from having the model 50X larger than it should be:  Images of the rendered vase were painted three times with each having slightly different applications of decoration at the base and at the top. Images and screen shots are shown below.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp Files.  Large Vase  (requires SketchUp to open).

February 28, 2023  Teapot, Decorative Plates, and Sugar Bowl--SketchUp, Twilight Rendering Extension, GIMP

The same procedures as described in the February 25 post were used to create today's 3D SketchUp models and rendered images.  Selected photos and drawings were edited from plate designs and floral arrangements by erasing and paintng existing borders with white space so they would blend well with each model.

Rendered pictures and screen shots are presented in three image sets below.

Here are links to today's SketchUp Files:  Teapot,  Decorative Plates,  and  Sugar Bowl (require SketchUp to open).  

Lastly here is a link for anyone using SketchUp Viewer. This is a non-rendered version Shared from my Trimble Connect account  Teapot 02-28-2023.  It also includes the steps on how it was drawn.

February 25, 2023  Vases and Bowls--SketchUp, Twilight Rendering Extension, GIMP

Vases and Bowls were were created using  SketchUp's FollowMe and Scale Tools.  Finishing touches were done with Twilight Rendering Extension and after rendering, GIMP was used to modify hue, exposure, contrast, add canvas, and saturation to name a few.

A 90 line segment circle produced a smooth surface after applying FollowMe to create the vase.  The bowl  was made by vertically scaling a copy of the vase down to the desired depth.  After scaling, however, the bowl's base was selected and pulled downward to make it thicker (see image below).

The second set of images below (blue vase and bowl) has additional horizontal scaling that produces deformations in the sides of the vase and blow.  The extrusion was accomplished by selecting areas in the hidden line view and then pulling outward to scale about center.

Lastly, the third set of images features a SketchUp projection of imagery onto a white surface.  This technique was explained in detail in my April 10, 2022 post located in the Archives linked at the top of this page.  The image is a favorite porcelain design that I've edited to fit the vase and bowl.

It is easy to select GIMP color combinations and lighting that are pleasing to the eye.  The newer version of GIMP (v2.10.32) has many more options than an early version that I had grown used to.  I was somewhat reluctant to update, but now, I'm glad I did.  It is way more user friendly than some of the previous updates that were difficult to see and to change preferences.  I always kept returning to version 2.8.

Here is a link to today's SketchUp File:  Vases and Bowls (requires SketchUp to open).

February 24, 2023  Structures--SketchUp, Twilight Rendering Extension.

Buildings and other structures can be modeled using specific dimensions, measured drawings, floor plans, and blue prints, etc., or simply from memory with a bit of creativity and imagination thrown in.

A few years ago I devoted months to drawing nothing but structures and city streets from memory.  After drawing a complete town (twice), I had my fill and haven't drawn any since. Many of the images are still posted on this web site--see the Digital Art links in the left side bar.

Today's project is a brief return to modeling structures which required about 30 minutes to draw.  It isn't very detailed--no windows or doors.  The materials used for the exterior walls were brick and sandstone.  Various cladding and roofing were applied in SketchUp and assigned metal and wood materials when rendering with Twilight Rendering Extension.

The house is a clash of styles.  It is a mixture of Victorian and Mid-century Modern design.  It's appearance is something you might experience in a dream--nothing makes much sense.  I did like the effect of light on the entry after rendering was completed (see images below).

Here is a link to today's SketchUp File:  Large House (requires SketchUp to open).

February 22, 2023  Baseball Bats--SketchUp, Twilight Rendering Extension.

This is a SketchUp project for beginners that utilizes SketchUp's FollowMe Tool.  Today's project is a no frills model of baseball bats.  They lack the usual trade marks, autographs, and other markings.  Proportions are somewhat distorted with narrow handles and overly thick barrels.

Here is a link to today's SketchUp File:  Baseball Bats (requires SketchUp to open).

February 19, 2023

February 19, 2023  Pocket Watch Update--SketchUp, Twilight Rendering Extension.

Today's model was originally posted November 11, 2018 (see Homepage Archives).  Today, I finally got around to adding a second hand beneath the watch crystal in the model.

It was a simple process of hiding the crystal to gain access to the hour and minute hands.  The minute hand was duplicated, moved upward and rotated to a different position to become the second hand.  The duplicate's point was removed.  The end was then elongated to the top of the Roman Numerals.  Lastly, the new second hand was painted red.

Several Twilight Rendering material settings were changed along with a few post processing modifications affecting exposure and saturation. The exposure and saturation options were used to reduce the blue tint of the watch crystal that improved the watch face clarity.

Most images were rendered with Twilight's Copper metal material applied to the SketchUp gold paint.  Two renderings were finished with Platinum metal material.  There wasn't much difference between the two after post processing.

Here is the link for today's updated SketchUp model:   Pocket Watch Update (requires SketchUp to open).  Over the years other pocket watch versions were posted (March 14 and 18, 2021).  An animated version also appears on my YouTube Channel.

Another animated pocket watch version was posted on January 7 and 9, 2022.  This version uses embedded code contained in this website that syncs it with the computer clock.  It continues to keep accurate time.

However, over the past few months, embedded code that allowed audio for the pocket watch ticking has lost functionality caused by web resource closure and also by changes in New Google Sites Code structure.

Currently, the audio portion will only work if the audio console is opened in a separate window.   From the onset, trying to simulate watch ticking by looping a 20 second mp3 audio clip was a poor idea and a waste of internet bandwidth and ultimately, time.

In summary, today's post addressed the shortcomings of the original SketchUp model.  Previous images displaying second hands were painted in after rendering rather than taking the time to modify the SketchUp model.  Today's images now have a much clearer watch dial with a second hand.

February 18, 2023   Stylized Cat Sculpture--Blender, SketchUp, GIMP.

Today's 3D model represents a stylized cat sculpture with exaggerated ears and bulging eyes.  It was created with Blender and modified in various ways using SketchUp and GIMP.  Here's a brief description of today's post with images shown below:

1. Blender Sculpture screen shots (12 images)  MatCap Colors--(Image 1 with GIMP Hue adjustment)

2. View of Blender Collada file imported in SketchUp (1 image)

3. SketchUp image with texture and paint added (1image)  Gray Carpet, fur; Green Glass, (eyes)

4. Colorized GIMP images (2 images)  Hue Adjustment; Colorized and Inverted Color; Pupils added to Eyes

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model containing imported collada file from Blender:   House Cat (requires SketchUp to open).

February 16, 2023   Ping Pong, a.k.a. Table Tennis--SketchUp with Twilight Rendering.

The Most challenging part of today's project was drawing the Net for the Ping Pong Table.  It required duplicating thousands of tiny squares over the entire net rectangular area that was grouped.

The squares consisted of four lines with the interior surface painted default white with 0 opacity.  Later, a border was placed around the entire rectangle of squares forming the net.  The border area and surface between all squares were painted with a lighter shade of green and the original group that served as a template was deleted.

The Ping Pong Paddles were drawn from a reference image (see below)--Paddle dimensions were just eyeballed--no measurements were made.  The Ping Pong Ball was a resized version of the sphere used for yesterday's project.

During rendering, the reflective paint color for the paddles reflected the net.   That setting was not the correct texture for paddle surfaces.  The same applied to the table top's reflectivity.  I later changed the blue and red paddle colors to flat paint and the table top to a satin finish.

Rendering the net turned out better than expected.  More time should have been taken rounding edges of the paddles and constructing a proper clamping system for the Net Posts.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:   Ping Pong Table (requires SketchUp to open).

February 15, 2023   The Game of Jacks--SketchUp with Twilight Rendering.

The FollowMe Tool was used to construct two entities, when combined formed each game piece. A 90 segment circle was used for these small parts.  To maintain smoothness, a 180 segment circle was used to form the sphere for the rubber ball (see images below).

The shape of the Jacks was based on images found on the internet--there were several styles to choose from.

Rendering worked very well today with relatively small model objects to process.

Here is the link for today's SketchUp model:   The Game of Jacks (requires SketchUp to open).

February 13, 2023   Bigger Doesn't Mean Better--SketchUp with Twilight Rendering.

Today's model had 720 line segments per thread applied, or 1 line segment every one-half of a degree--double the density of December 26th's post that did not render well (see images below).  Today's high density model and subsequent large file size created some obstacles when rendering that were partially resolved after moving the selected length of thread to a separate SketchUp file.

To experiment, I also duplicated and rotated helix 2, 3, and 4 into position instead of simply duplicating and moving vertically to the thread profile's alignment marks.  The only advantage was that trimming helix ends was unnecessary.

By the way, the only reason I chose to use 720 line segments was to accommodate rotating to a half degree of precision--namely, aligning 112.5 degrees to form Helix 3 and thereafter, Helix 2 (see next paragraph).  Line Segments need to lay flat against the walls of the thread cylinder so they will stick during scaling/deformation--there can't be gaps between the line segments and the surfaces.  

On the downside, more calculations were necessary to determine the number of degrees for each duplicated helix's rotation (h2, h3, and h4).  Beginning at the bottom, Helix 1 was duplicated to become Helix 4 and  rotated 90 degrees clockwise.  Helix 3 was duplicated from Helix 4 and rotated an additional 112.5 degrees clockwise to form the lower portion of the thread crest.  Helix 2 was duplicated from Helix 3 and rotated an additional 45 degrees clockwise to form the upper portion of the thread crest.  Helix 1 was already positioned at 0 (point of origin).  Alternatively, with the Thread profile in place, Helix 2 -- 4 could simply be duplicated and rotated clockwise until each aligned with the appropriate marks on the thread profile.

For these reasons, I do not usually use the rotation method for aligning helixes.

The  complete Model for today's project is large--31 MB.  It is linked here:  Thread with 720 Line Segments (requires SketchUp to open).

February 12, 2023   Review Drawing Drill Bits--SketchUp with Twilight Rendering.

Last year's posts on April 21, 25, and 28, 2022 provided extensive examples on drawing 3D drill bits with SketchUp.  They can be accessed in the archive linked at the top of this page.  Note:  today's drill bit layout is a simplified drawing with no provision for edge clearance.  A bit such as this would probably bind and not penetrate metal (see April 25, 2022 post in archive).

Models for today's projects are divided into two SketchUp files due to their file size--20 MB and 36 MB.  They art linked here:  Drill Bit Review part 1 and Drill Bit Review part 2 (requires SketchUp to open).

Shown below are six Twilight rendered images and three SketchUp exported images:

February 5, 2023   Visual Math for SketchUp Modeling--Layout.

The majority of recent SketchUp projects involve thread spiral design for bolts and screws.  I've attempted to use as little external math as possible while allowing the SketchUp model to do most of the number crunching.

Today's project shows preliminary steps in drawing a threaded bolt from scratch.  A few decisions needed to be made before drawing.  This in included, the desired bolt diameter and scale to apply for accurate drawing--the scale used for today's model was 4800mm = 1 inch diameter bolt; 600mm = Thread Pitch with 8 threads per inch (coarse thread).

Today's choice of thread profile is more complex than a simple V-shaped thread.  It provides for 30 degrees half angles, a crest width that is 1/8 the pitch, and a root width that is 1/4 the pitch.  This style of thread will require four helixes instead of 2 required for a simple V-shaped thread profile.

The topic of drawing helixes has already been discussed in many previous posts and is not covered in today's model.  A segmented thread design option could be substituted instead of using a scaling/deformation approach involving helixes.  This post will focus on the scaling/deformation option that would eventually apply the use of four helixes aligned with markings on the thread profile.

Using a visual layout eliminates the need to apply geometric formulas or to work with extremely large decimal fractions.  SketchUp will happily do the math rounding numbers to 1 decimal place while maintaining a high degree of precision as long a steps are completed in a logical order.

If you use a calculator to find the length of the hypotenuse of the 4800mm x 4800mm square drawn for this project, you may see a decimal fraction carried to 15 decimal places of precision.  This project doesn't require that level of precision (4800 x sqrt of 2 = hypotenuse)--formula for a 45-45-90 triangle.  If, however, you were to use the 324.8mm thread depth value shown in the model to perform additional computations, small alignment errors may become apparent later on. (5/16 of 600 pitch, the half angle width, x sqrt of 3 = thread depth, 324.7595264191645mm)--formula for a 30-60-90 degree triangle to find longest leg of the triangle which is the thread depth.   *reference

In general, I will seldom type in a rounded decimal value output to draw a new line.  I prefer to duplicate and move an existing line if needed, or use the divide context menu option instead of typing in calculated quotient values.  Let SketchUp handle the fractional values for line lengths.

The SketchUp model linked below contains a few illustrations of the base upon which to draw the bolt.  An accompanying thread profile layout is also shown.   Screen shots from the SketchUp model are shown below.  As mentioned earlier, actual bolt design steps are not included.

The link for today's post is Do Math First (requires SketchUp to open).

February 4, 2023   Shared SketchUp Models--Links.

Here's a link to a SketchUp model created with the free online version:  Helix Thread Review  02-04-2023.  The sharing feature just came to my attention and has been put to use for the first time in today's post.

A SketchUp Viewer with navigational/viewing controls only will open the linked model in your browser.   The following are shared links to a few more models saved to Trimble Connect during the previous six years . . .

12-20-2017:  Lamp Base (Home Furnishings)

01-13-2018:  Wood Table (Home Furnishings)

05-19-2018 Flat Art and Curved Art III (Digital Aart)

11-25-2019:  Bench Vise (Metalworking)

02-13-2020:   Auger Bit (Woodworking)

05-26-2021:  Thirteen Ball (Pocket Billiards)

05/16/2022:  Antique Handtools  (Metal and Woodworking)

05/16/2022:  1949 Hudson Super Six (Automotive)

Below are some screen shots from today's project as seen in the online SketchUp app:

February 3, 2023   Stainless Steel Bolts--SketchUp and Twilight Rendering Extension.  Thread spirals consisting of 360 line segments produced smooth Twilight Renderings in SketchUp.

By the time the 24-thread bolt was created the SketchUp file became very large and slowed the computer to a crawl.  To reduce the SketchUp file size, today's post is limited to just the Helix Scaling steps linked here:  Helix Scaling 360 Line Segments Per Thread (18.8 MB, requires SketchUp to open).

The bolt completion is similar to those posted on January 19 below.  The main difference is that 360 line segments per thread  was applied.

Here are four renderings using Twilight Rendering Extension as well as 7 images exported from today's SketchUp model(s).  Drawings attempt to illustrate that it's not the complexity of the underlying math but rather the steps in which the 3-D model was created that determines its precision.

Based on a few known values such as desired diameter  (1 inch), threads per inch  (8 tpi), half angle value (30 degrees), and ratio of root to crest width (2:1), everything else is revealed by the drawing itself.  Choice of scale was determined by selecting a Pitch value when using a 360 degrees thread spiral that is easily divisible by 360.  Then, drawing a simple Thread Profile based on the known values will be the key to success.

In this project, a 1 inch diameter bolt was assigned 7200 mm with a radius of 3600 mm.  Also, 1 inch of vertical height was 7200 and when divided by 8 tpi, equals 900 mm, the Pitch (distance between thread crests).  The slope of every degree of the thread spiral was represented by a 2.5 mm rise (that is, 900mm pitch divided by 360 degrees = 2.5 mm).

The decimal fraction 2.5 is easy to work with. However, had the slope rise resulted in a decimal fraction ending  with .66666667 or a 346346346, etc., there is a greater chance for alignment errors to exist.  Therefore, select a Pitch Value that is easy to work with that works best with the thread/bolt diameter and number of line segments per thread spiral.

Disclaimer:   The SketchUp models and subsequent drawings posted to this website do not conform with principles of standardized bolt and thread design.  They are completed for recreational purposes only.  That is not to say that some of the described techniques might be adapted for real-world use.

January 27, 2023   Opacity--SketchUp and Twilight Rendering Extension.  Glass Material in SketchUp is easy to use.  The level of opacity can be adjusted in other materials as well.  The lower the opacity setting, the more light will appear to pass through surfaces.

Twilight Rendering Extension in SketchUp also has extensive Glass options available as well as options for selecting Translucent effects.

The term Transparent isn't really a player when it comes to producing visual art--because there's nothing to see.  For example, there's usually something on the window such as glare, tint, or a reflection, etc., to suggest that the window pane contains glass.  If the window is intended to be wide open, a curtain could be shown flapping in the wind or a piece of shattered glass could be laying nearby.

The Water Glass images shown below have been placed on various table tops and a coaster.  Images 1--10 were rendered with Twilight Rendering Extension.  Image 11 was a SketchUp 2D Export without Twilight Render applied.

The circular coaster was created with SketchUp's Carpet Material and also had Twilight Render's Textile Carpet Material applied.  (Sorry, the marble and round table tops were deleted from the model after images were rendered.)

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Water Glass (requires SketchUp to open).

January 22, 2023   Mountain Top--Blender, SketchUp, and GIMP.  Without any natural artistic ability or high degree of skill, it is still possible to enjoy drawing by combining some of the basic features of graphics software.

Today's project utilized Blender, SketchUp, and GIMP to create Images shown below.  Individuals who have a complete understanding of any one of these programs could do it all without having to utilize three and do a much better job as well.

Here is the process I had to use since I am not very skilled with any of them.

Blender 3.4:  The A.N.T. Landscape Mesh addon was used to create Mountains 1 with 256 subdivision (this vertices density produced a 7.4 MB Collada file).

SketchUp Make:  Imported the Collada file with wireframe turned on due to memory constraints--restored Color and Texture once it opened and selected Open Component.  Then, selected the mountain top area, painted it with SketchUp Color Named "Snow", and grouped the peak.  Next, an area below the peak was selected and painted with the "Granite" Material.  Lastly, two more layers further down the mountain (not shown in first photo) were likewise painted with shades of vegetation to represent the tree line at lower elevations).

GIMP 2.10.32:  The Exported SketchUp jpeg image was opened in GIMP where it was cropped to size.  Color and Hue Chroma were adjusted.  Noise (noise filter) was applied to the selected granite area to diffuse the vertices of the painted surfaces from the original 3D Mesh Mountain 1 Landscape.   Noise filters were also applied to the vegetation areas.  Lastly, the image was exported as a jpeg file.

Comments:   By continuing to apply light, texture, and bump map filters, the single-layered image became very muddy and dark (see images 2--6).  Layering might prevent this loss of clarity and brightness provided a higher resolution original image was being used.

January 20, 2023   Old Projects--SketchUp.  While digging through files on some old thumb drives, I stumbled across three SketchUp models from 2007, 2013, and 2014.

The 2007 model was supposed to be a cookie jar with a speckled stone finish.  I hadn't been using SketchUp very long in 2007.   The cookie jar looks better today after using Twilight Rendering Extension (see images below).

My first submission to YouTube in 2013, an Extended Stapler, used a different identity that doesn't match my present YouTube channel.  Back then I was BlueJay188 and logged into YouTube with my Yahoo Email. 

Similarly in 2014 I submitted a Snow Pusher model to SketchUp's 3D Warehouse.  Somewhere along the line a new account was created with a different login and password.   My old handle was just Mohall with no other profile data submitted for public viewing.  (Well, now you know.)

This was a few years before YouTube went to Google and Google SketchUp became Trimble.  Over time logins and passwords became very entangled and confusing--but I still have been able to preserve my old Yahoo and Hotmail Email accounts!   Gmail is the new kid on the block.

To make matters worse, our local isp (internet service provider) included Email that underwent domain name changes during times where we had discontinued monthly service while living out of state.  Internet presence had to be re-established afresh.

Included below are some images from the above mentioned SketchUp models.   Here is the link to an updated version of the 2007 Stone Jar.Skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 19, 2023   Blue Bolts--SketchUp.  Today's bolt design repeats many of the steps used yesterday.  The difference in the layout was the chamfer angle was set to 45 Degrees for the thread runout instead of  30.  If it were ground on a metal bolt, 45 degrees is the usual standard.  The thread was built from scratch following the same one inch, 8 TPI thread profile segmented method (see other similar posts for more details).

I began the project drawing a cone spiral, but later realized it had no purpose for today's project.  It remains in the project--could be used later and shows all the steps in cone spiral construction.

Below are some images rendered in SketchUp with Twilight rendering Extensions and a few screen shots of layout procedures.

Three of the four renderings were accidently rendered upside down (whoops) which accounts for their lack of illumination.  One exterior light rendering even shows the blue sky at the bottom.  The first image was flipped before rendering and has correct lighting.

Also, each rendering has a slate filtered duplicate which gives it a chrome-like appearance.  All rendered bolts have a Twilight Metal Copper Material applied over shades of SketchUp's blue paint. 

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Blue Bolts.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 18, 2023   Colorful Bolts--SketchUp.  Today's bolt design borrows elements from two previous bolt projects.  The one-inch diameter course thread (8 TPI) was copied from  the December 22 project and the hexagonal bolt head was copied from the January 11 project and resized to fit. 

The shank was made from scratch and was slightly chamfered next to the head.   Greater attention was given to the placement of the chamfers that create thread runout at both ends.  This has always been a challenge to create.  Images of alignment steps are included below.  

Internal geometry has not been completely removed between the thread and shank.  It does not affect outward appearance, but would hamper 3D printing efforts.

After completion, the bolt was duplicated.  Each bolt was painted a different color.  Rendering was done in SketchUp with Twilight Rendering Extension.  Three material surfaces were applied shown in the three renderings below:  Metal Copper, Plastic Shiny, and Reflective Car Paint.  Metal Copper seemed to be easiest to work with and rendered fastest because it was applied to all four bolts.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Colorful Bolts .skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 17, 2023   Helical Gears Version 4--SketchUp Push/Pull.    The final post in this gear drawing series uses the Push/Pull Tool to form an offset (twisted) helical gear.  Again, it is based on the same layout used in the three previous projects.

The project required less time and effort.  I used an exterior lighting for the finished gear rendering.  The bright light brought out all the irregular vertical surfaces.  Overall, its shape is comparable with the previous helical gears.

Steps used for the project are shown with the images below.  The last two projects required less disk storage space than the two earlier versions:  Version 3 was 5.4 MB and Version 4 was 3.6 MB that include all developmental steps.

Lastly a vertical-cog gear is shown next to the helical gear for comparison.  Both gears represent a 1 inch diameter by .5 inch height.  When scaled up as shown in this project they are 2400mm radius by 2400mm height with 20 cogs aligned 18 degrees apart.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Helical Gears version 4 .skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 16, 2023   Helical Gears Version 3--SketchUp.    Today's project involved adding hand drawn lines to connect a top and bottom gear cog profile.  I discovered half way through the project that it was more time consumng than the previous two versions.

Components were not the memory saver as I had hoped although the file size was significantly reduced attributed to fewer steps and more maticulous model cleanup internally. However, it was necessary to finish the last few steps in a second SketchUp file (part 2) due to unresponsive processing.  The combined file size of today's files was:   5.8 MB (part 1) and 19.6 MB (part 2), that totaled 25.4 MB.  Yesterday's single file was 50.9 MB.

The bulk of the required time was devoted to filling and repairing surfaces.  The From Contours Tool was used to fill in every 4-line selection rather than filling in with a triangular pattern.  However, some tringular line selections were also fill with the From Contours Tool. 

Simple gaps that occurred after duplicating the cog was repaired by drawing a single diagonal line across the affected area.  Much of the line placement was done by eye which didn't seem to create a problem after everything was softened.  Whether or not the gear would mesh with another gear remains to be seen.

Below are the images and steps used for today's hand drawn helical gear.  Also included for comparison is a vertical gear with similar dimensions.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Helical Gears version 3.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 16, 2023   Helical Gears Version 3--SketchUp.    Today's project involved adding hand drawn lines to connect a top and bottom gear cog profile.  I discovered half way through the project that it was more time consumng than the previous two versions.

Components were not the memory saver as I had hoped although the file size was significantly reduced attributed to fewer steps and more maticulous model cleanup internally. However, it was necessary to finish the last few steps in a second SketchUp file (part 2) due to unresponsive processing.  The combined file size of today's files was:   5.8 MB (part 1) and 19.6 MB (part 2), that totaled 25.4 MB.  Yesterday's single file was 50.9 MB.

The bulk of the required time was devoted to filling and repairing surfaces.  The From Contours Tool was used to fill in every 4-line selection rather than filling in with a triangular pattern.  However, some tringular line selections were also fill with the From Contours Tool. 

Simple gaps that occurred after duplicating the cog was repaired by drawing a single diagonal line across the affected area.  Much of the line placement was done by eye which didn't seem to create a problem after everything was softened.  Whether or not the gear would mesh with another gear remains to be seen.

Below are the images and steps used for today's hand drawn helical gear.  Also included for comparison is a vertical gear with similar dimensions.

Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Helical Gears version 3.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 15, 2023   Helical Gears Version 2--SketchUp.    A few changes were made in how layers were formed compared to yesterday's post.  I've succeeded in hiding unwanted lines have been able to reduce the file size by about 50%.  I have removed internal geometry and converted to components but the computer still labors to process mass selection and exploding steps while editing.

Components were not the memory saver as I had hoped although the file size was significantly reduced attributed to fewer steps and more maticulous model cleanup internally. However, it was necessary to finish the last few steps in a second SketchUp file (part 2) due to unresponsive processing.  The combined file size of today's files was:   5.8 MB (part 1) and 19.6 MB (part 2), that totaled 25.4 MB.  Yesterday's single file was 50.9 MB.

A vertical-cog gear is also shown for comparison purposes.  It was built on the same layout pattern as the helical gear and was simply pushed upward .5 inches (2400mm in model).  It was also large with 6286 entities, but compared to the helical-cog gear, was about 50x smaller. The Helical gear was made up of 50 offset layers rotated .2 degrees each (next paragraph).  The vertical-cog gear contains just one layer.

Today's helical model has a smooth surface because the upper and lower portion of each layer is offset .2 degrees clockwise (which accounts for increased geometry on the outer walls).

Here are links to today's SketchUp models:  Helical Gears version 2 part 1.skp and Helical Gears version 2 part 2.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 14, 2023   Helical Gears --SketchUp.   This model uses a layering method to form a Helical Gear  (see April 2022 posts in 2022 Archive linked at top of this page where a similar technique was applied to draw drill bits and other helical objects).

Today's project was memory intensive and contains internal geometry that should have been deleted at the onset.

Some images and renderings from today's model are shown below.  Here is the link to today's SketchUp model:  Helical Gears.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 11, 2023   Symmetrical Bolt Design--Ninety Segment Thread Spiral.    The two methods for drawing threads shown most frequently on this web page create slightly different looking bolts.

The segmented method used today creates a symmetrical thread when viewed from the bottom.  That is, the root diameter and crest diameter are concentric--especially when viewed from the top or bottom.

However, the second method using the helix scaling/deformation method produces a non-concentric or varying root-crest view that is mostly visible at each end of the bolt when viewed from the top or bottom--the thread runout.

I think what's going on is the way the two threads originate and terminate in the SketchUp model.  That is, the segmented threads abruptly originate and terminate on the red axis (on both ends that are later trimmed to a flat plane.  The Scaling/ Deformation method, however, originates and terminates on a flat plane that produces an off-center circle when compared to the original center axis extended vertically upward.  The last two images in the series below show a comparison of the two drawing methods from today and the December 22 Post.

In metal turning on a lathe, the thread will usually terminate in a cut out area (the relief).  The other end of the thread on a bolt has a tapered chamfer that facilitates starting the nut. The segmented method seems to best recreate this scenario.

Here's the link to today's SketchUp model:  Symmetrical Bolt Design.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 9, 2023   Wood Screw Model--Simplified Thread.    This post is similar to the December 29 post below.  Today's model includes more details for creating the coil or helix wrapped around a cone that forms the point of the wood screw.  Instead of using 4 helixes to shape the thread profile, only 2 were used--one for the root and the other for the crest.

The third difference in completing today's wood screw was the thread scaling/deformation for the conical section and cyclindirical section were shaped individually and then joined by manually redrawing connecting geometry and surfaces at the intersection (see screen capture below).  This was messy and time consuming.  Had it been a 4-helix style thread profile, trying to re-do geometry and surfaces would have quickly become a nightmare.

The first two rendered images show screws made with today's method.  Image three shows the messy overlap created when merging the cone and cylinder threads.  Image four shows steps used for the flat head screw contruction.

Also Included at the end are seven more images explaining how the thread can be formed using the December 29th method.  Note :  In image 6 the X-ray face style can be avoided by first dragging the bottom of the scaling guide group upward to the tip of the cone and reference it there when scaling (see the following image).

Today's model represents a 1/8" diameter wood screw with 40 TPI.  It has been scaled up in SketchUp:  1/8" = 600mm diameter.  The model's Thread Pitch = 120mm or .025" when scaled down to actual size.  The length of 12 thread spirals = 1440mm or .3" when scaled down to actual size.  Overall screw length is about 1950mm or .4" when scaled down to actual size-- a portion of the cylinder's first thread spiral--42mm, (.00875")-- was sunk into the screw head during screw head alignment).

Here's the link to today's SketchUp model:  Wood Screw with V-Shape Thread.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 6, 2023   SketchUp Imports--Bolt Factory Collada Files from Blender.    Blender has an easy to use addon for creating 3D bolts.  It is installed using the same procedures as explained in the January 4 post.

In today's project, I accidently reversed the intended crest and root settings in the preset window (see images below).  At least I know it's working properly.  Circle divisions were changed in the presets window to 90 instead of my usual 24 when drawing with SketchUp.  It would have been just as easy to set it for 360 for an even smoother bolt for rendering with SketchUp's Twilight Rendering Extension although the file size would be almost quadrupled.

The head of the bolt detail, shank, top and bottom thread runouts were drawn neatly--better than what I can do by hand (see images below). 

Lastly, the bolt's exported collada file was imported into SketchUp and painted with the light blue steel color.  Twilight Rendering Extension's copper metal material was applied with exterior lighting.  Rendering was set at No. 8 exterior lighting quality and was manually stopped after 5 minutes.

Here's the link to today's SketchUp model which includes the Collada file created with the Bolt Factory addon and exported from Blender.  Bolt Collada File.skp (requires SketchUp to open).

January 4, 2023   SketchUp Imports--Landscape Collada Files from Blender.    There are numerous addons pre-loaded with the Blender application.  All you have to do is to install them using Edit>Preferences>Addons . . . .

Today, I updated Blender to version 3.4 and also installed the A.N.T. addon (Another Noise Tool)  that has been packaged with Blender for the past few versions.  My computer is too underpowered to make full use of nodes and layers options for creating fantastic looking scenery.  I will try to adapt landscapes in other ways, however.

A Large Terrain Landscape Mesh was added to Blender's work space with a preset to fall off the xy edges.  The result created an island after a Water Plane was added  (see below).  Water and Hill levels can be adjusted--today's were left at their default values.

Without touching controls other than the initial presets, I saved the Blender file and also exported it as a Collada file.  The Blender A.N.T. addon can also be used for drawing planets, lunar surfaces, and other rocky shapes, etc.  Due to the large file size, SketchUp Make would not exploded the imported Collada file (see below) .  Model editing was limited to painting the Landscape and Water Planes.

Later, I returned to blender and created another landscape--Cauliflauer Hills Mesh--using 128 subdivisions for vertices and  .762 instead of the original dimensions preset.  This time, SketchUp exploded the smaller file without hesitation.

Next, a screen caputre of a square area from Google Maps's Satellite view was saved as a jpeg.  It was a 2500 ft. area (762 meters) of forest east of Cusco, Peru.   The hills vertical height were scaled down to .376 of the original height on the Y axis in blender before exporting because the dimensions had also been reduced.  After projecting the image upward onto the imported hills with the same dimensions in Sketchup, the end result was o.k. from a distance, but lacked clarity for closeup views.  (Projecting is done with eyedropper and paint bucket tools by touching the exploded image with the eyedropper and then touching the exploded and selected landscape with the paint bucket.)

Here's the link to today's SkecthUp model  Peruvian Forest Landscape Model  (requires SketchUp to open).

Comment:  In order to get high quality realistic looking 3D landscapes, many intermediate steps using Blender or other rendering applications are required.  For me, this will take considerable time to acquire the technical skill.  Unfortunately, no easy shortcuts exist doing it my way. 

January 3, 2023   SketchUp Imports--Collada Files from Blender.    Here are three rendered images made with the Twlight Rendering Extension in SketchUp.  This process was explained in the November 20, 2022 Blender post and others located on the Home page.

Exterior light was applied today using the Environmental Editor of Twilight Render.  Color Templates applied to the imported stylized face sculpture were mostly glossy paint and shiny plastic materials.  The eyes were assigned a reflective blue car paint.  Full Sun Light created a waxy appearance.

January 2, 2023   Drawing Basic V-Shaped Threads--Another Approach.    Today's posts begins the new year with a slightly different way of drawing basic bolt threads.  Again, very little math is involved with most critical measurements taken directly from the drawing itself.

Here are 11 screen shots and the link to today's SketchUp model:  V-shaped Threads (requires SktechUp to open).

The bolt thread has a 1 inch diameter and 8 threads per inch.  I've also included a more detailed thread profile image derived from the simple V-shaped layout.  Scale of Model:   4800mm = 1 inch.