Can SketchUp create files in a format that fabricators can actually use?

I have some ideas I'd like to prototype, but not too interested in dropping $1,300 on AutoCAD. Hell, I don't even know how to use this kind of software. If I can learn my way around SketchUp, does it even produce the kind of files a fabricator can use? This would all be sheet metal stuff with bends etc...

 

bump

 

I've dabbled with Sketchup, but I managed to snag a copy of AutoDesk at work. This FAQ post should help you.

https://help.sketchup.com/en/sketchup/using-sketchup-data-other-modeling-programs-or-tools

 

I bought an older version of TurboCad. Pretty cheap and works well. Might do what you want.

 

Ouch, looking at SketchUp it seems only the Pro and Shop version offer much functionality as far as exporting major files.

stl is still a very useful and widely used file format though.

What kind of part files are you trying to send out? Flat parts? Parts requiring processes such as forming, tapping, etc? Or model files for 3d printing? Either way a pdf with dimensions and all the usual view points is gonna be the best tool in helping the manufacturer comprehend have all the details of the other file and format you send.

 

I do quite a bit with Sketchup - I use the free 2017 version.

I do quite a bit of what some people call "2.5 dimensional" work and I use phlatscript. It's easy to use and has worked really well for me. It's probably what you're looking for sheet metal stuff. Cut out parts and weld together?

 

Even now I get drawings on card board box parts.

If your talking a file that you just download direct to your CNC machines some can be rather picky.

It can`t ever be simple

 

Wait, do you also work with me? Cause I get cardboard drawings and templates (with no info) all damn day, lol.

Any more my boss laughs when he hears me blurt out, "What is this shit?!".

 

I don`t think so it has been since 1989 that I worked in that Part of the country .

I just get good dimensions some in inches some in feet and inches some in Metric on the same drawing

 

I’m going to make a point to use a cocktail napkin.