Timber Trusses (with SketchUp)

[Medeek]

After three weeks of non-stop coding I needed a break so I spent the day at the track (walking, I’m too old to run anymore) and then spent the evening digging up docs on Bryant furnaces. Surprisingly the dimensional data is quite accurate and thorough, here is the result:

 

hvac_su050_8001493×1058 170 KB

 

Six actual models added, but really there are only three sizes (17.5, 21, 24).

I’ve been giving the calculations more thought and if I am able to incorporate that into the plugin then the BTUs, and other specs on these furnaces will also come in handy. I will probably need to create some sort of database or flat text file that has all the pertinent data on each furnace and the ability for the user to enter in custom furnaces and other appliances.

I always find that doing some low level modeling has an almost therapeutic effect. Maybe SketchUp is just such an fun to use and intuitive modeling environment, either way I find it to be a great way to relax and unwind.

 

All of the assets (furnaces, AC units, heat pumps etc...) will be part of the HVAC plugin and I think will be a great resource for anyone doing any sort of 3D modeling regardless of their platform.  I'm basically doing the heavy lifting for you so you don't have to spend countless hours modeling off the shelf parts and products.

[Medeek]

Version 4.0.4 - 07.13.2025
- Added the following steel post types to the post module: Round (HSS), Pipe (NPS).

 

I'm not sure why I never added a "pipe" option in before, I guess no one ever asked until now.

I will need to add more sizes but I now have the most commonly used sizes from 3" to 6" DIA.

 

 

[Medeek]

[b]Version 4.0.4b[/b] - 07.14.2025
- Added springfield plates to the post base and post cap libraries (for 3.5" and 4.0" pipe).
- Added the following Simpson post caps to the post module: LLC35_35, LCC35_4, LCC45_35, LCC45_4, LCC525_35, LCC525_4, LCC6_35, LCC6_4, LCC7_35, LCC7_4.

 

If I'm going to add in this new "pipe" post then it stands to reason that I also add some appropriate bases and caps to match.

[Medeek]

Version 4.0.4c - 07.15.2025
- Added the following Simpson Strong-Tie holdowns to the wall, column and shearwall modules: HDUE3, HDUE5, HDUE7, HDUE9, HDUE13, HDUE17.

 

Looks like Simpson added this new replacement for the HDU holdown in May of this year.  I just noticed this morning so I added them in.

 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L-pa7M1g7dM

 

Note that these are low poly versions of the holdowns based directly off of the geometry provided on Simpson's website.