My idea is to have a specific layer which the layout tool places all of its 2D layout geometry, something like the image shown below:
It will probably take a while to fine tune the layout tool so that it is robust and has enough flexibility to handle 99% of most wall framing situations.
View model here:
https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/model/2acdeae0-8358-47c5-9b9b-c45a3a0460ba/Wall-Plugin-Layout-PrototypeMy idea is color code openings (windows, doors, garage doors) for easy identification. The same holds true for wall types (Ext./Int., Int./Int.). With the walls I am thinking about providing a 1 inch strip on the exterior and interior to indicate the "normal vector" of the wall and provide a visual representation for the sheathing and gypsum.
When using the door or window tool to insert a new opening if you key in a dimension it will place the opening that dimension from the start point of the wall (the wall segment currently hovering over), hopefully speeding up the process of adding openings.
I would also like to provide dimensions from the "start point" of the wall to any openings which update dynamically when the opening is moved by the user.
Inside each opening I would like to indicate the opening size and door or window type (ie. 4050XO, 2020PIC, 3068, etc...) but I don't see an easy way to insert simple text into the model.
Once you have the floor plan put together with the layout tool, you simply hit the "Generate" icon and the plugin will then automatically generate all of the walls (framing, openings, insulation, sheathing, siding, gypsum, baseboard and moulding) and optionally insert doors and windows into all of the openings.
As the plugin matures, the plan is to provide more options for window and door options (mullions, wood vs. vinyl, dynamic components etc...) as well as increased options for wall cladding (siding, brick, cultured stone, stucco , wainscoting, pre-cast concrete accents, quoins, etc...)
Perhaps my vision is too ambitious?
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