I am starting this new discussion thread as a fork from the Medeek Truss Plugin thread since the Medeek Floor extension will now become a stand alone extension/plugin.
Its icon(s) will be:
(https://aws1.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/2/7/27d5cf628f0cfddb4525757a8e607559d8df1d8b.png)
This new plugin will ultimately replace the floor joist/truss module currently found in the truss plugin.
Similar to the complex roof module the designer will be able to create any polygon shaped floor outline, and edit the shape by moving/adjusting the edges.
There will be a tool for creating and editing holes within the floor.
There will also be a tool for creating polygon shaped floor coverings (ie. carpet, tile, wood, pergo etc...) with an associated label and optional sqft callout. These floor coverings will be situated on top of the sub-floor and can be individually edited.
Eventually the floor assemblies will also be integrated with the estimating module currently found in the wall plugin (this will be moved to the Medeek Project extension in the near future).
There will also be an option for gypsum on the underside of the floor with a user editable offset (ie. 5.5 inches).
I have a few more ideas for this new extension but I would be interested in hearing what ideas you might have that would make this extension have even more utility for you and your workflow.
Per discussion and input this morning from a valued mentor/adviser I've added a few more items to the list:
1.) A tool for adding in mid-span blocking where the user can specify a location, extant and type of blocking.
2.) A blocking tool (also need this for the wall plugin) which will allow the user to create special blocking for point load conditions etc...
3.) An in-floor beam tool similar to the in-column wall tool of the wall plugin. The wall plugin already has a beam tool but this is for stand alone beams.
4.) Option for cavity insulation within the floor assembly, however an additional parameter which allows the control of the batt thickness since it may not be the same depth as the floor cavity.
5.) With the floor covering tool provide a vertical offset parameter. I may also set it up so that multiple layers are possible.
I've been thinking about this plugin some more as I've been occupied with upgrading the javascript/ruby interactions within the wall plugin.
Some floor framing plans are very simple, while others are considerably more complex.
I need to make the plugin as flexible as possible so it can accommodate the more complex floor variants.
One issue I'm trying to address is how to best handle floor plans that have floor joists running in different directions within a single floor plan/assembly.
My proposed solution is to limit the direction of the floor joists in any given assembly to one direction. Then to allow for a complex floor assemblies I will need a tool to suppress the rimboard along any given edge of the floor assembly. This will then allow for the butting up of floor assemblies next to each other to get the desired floor framing layout.
This particular edge tool will have three options for any given edge of the floor assembly: rimboard, no rimboard, or ledger.
First look at the main toolbar for the plugin:
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/images/floor_su_menu_active.jpg)
1.) Draw Floor
2.) Edit Floor
3.) Move Floor Edge
4.) Edit Rim Joist
5.) Engineering
6.) Global Settings
Most of these tools are fairly self explanatory, number 4 is probably the most interesting. I will allow the user to customize each rim joist per floor edge (if desired), or remove it entirely. This will come in useful where there are multiple floor assemblies abutted next to each other.
There will also be additional context menu tools (ie. regen floor assembly). One context menu tool I am thinking about adding in is a way to select a given edge as the starting point for the floor joists/trusses. This will allow the direction and spacing of the floor joists to be aligned to any edge along the floor outline.
There will need to be another completely separate toolbar and tools that deals specifically with holes cut into the floor.
Lots of little details to still work out and even though much of the code base can be recycled from the other plugins there is still a lot of work involved to produce a completely new plugin with the capabilities that I envision for this new architectural tool.
First look at the floor opening toolbar:
(https://aws1.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/d/3/d3ff1055d4f90c34514b85419d97d45bc7a40a5c.jpeg)
1.) Draw Floor Opening
2.) Move Floor Opening
3.) Edit Floor Opening
4.) Delete Floor Opening
First look at the floor covering toolbar:
(https://aws1.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/5/d/5db1e9dc6e5fe8956c4a6feff989f91d3485d755.jpeg)
1.) Draw Floor Covering
2.) Move Floor Covering
3.) Edit Floor Covering
4.) Delete Floor Covering
The colors are a little bright for me, I may have to subdue them a bit to get the right look.
First look at the floor beam toolbar:
(https://aws1.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/3/1/312cef67d5b618154b5af8058e5f69e4766d556d.jpeg)
1.) Draw Floor Beam
2.) Move Floor Beam
3.) Edit Floor Beam
4.) Delete Floor Beam
If the floor beams align with the joists/trusses things are fairly straightforward, however if the in-floor beams are perpendicular or oblique to the joists this becomes a bit more interesting.
I will have to give some serious thought to this module in order to make it as flexible as possible.
(https://woodaware.org/img/construction/Girders_(Beams).JPG)
For the floor covering module I think an option for 2 or 3 layers should be sufficient for most cases:
(https://aws1.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/4/a/4a41ca0ef58f7f4bdd80cf46aa3295eafdcdcd3d.jpeg)
In this case I am modeling/representing the carpet and its pad.
Tile floors usually require some time of cement board underlayment.
Pergo and hardwood floors may also have an underlayment of some type or another.
Openings cut in the floor assembly will also cut through the floor coverings if they intersect. This will allow for interior holes within a floor covering.
I've finally wrapped up my recent move (Utah -> Missouri) and the dust is beginning to settle some. The next few weeks I will be working in earnest on the Floor plugin and try to get it put together and released before the end of the summer and prior to the upcoming SketchUp Basecamp.
I realize that people are chomping at the bit for this new plugin and I have been working on it diligently for the last two to three weeks. The biggest holdup has been going back through all of the code and bringing it up to speed with the other plugins. There have been quite a few incremental changes to the other plugins with regards to licensing, materials, layers etc...
For instance the plugin material library back end was originally coded based off of the 2022 version of the Wall plugin. I just updated all of the code now so that it is keeping in line with the most current version of the Wall plugins material library code base.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/f/b/fba8e6d9e492d1eaed1437acff0e89a5031a4203_2_690x460.jpeg)
So right now I'm spending a few more days making sure everything is modern and up to speed with the other plugins.
I've been pushing the plugin all afternoon trying to find ways to break it and a few things eventually did jump out at me. One of which is the rim board algorithm and the sill plate algorithm (essentially the same algorithm but utilized differently). Other than that the basic joist (framing) algorithm seems very robust at this point no matter what strange configurations I try to attack it with:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/0/3/0325c31d9ec529e358395d97c8d7916767d52ae2_2_690x425.jpeg)
My initial framing method for the rim joists was to simply bevel/miter the joints, which makes sense if things are non-orthogonal but in practice when things are orthogonal the joints are usually lapped, at least that is what I've always seen in the field. If they are lapped then the question becomes do you lap the long or short parallel to the joists themselves. What I've always seen is the long rim joists are perpendicular to the joists however the user may want some control over this, so it is probably best to make this user definable (yet another option).
I will put my thinking cap on and start a new day tomorrow...
How soon should I release the BETA version? I'm currently checking the floor preset functionality and I will also look at the addition of insulation (bat or fill) tomorrow. The gypsum (ceiling) seems to be working great, but eventually I will add in battens because I know someone will request it, but it is not top priority right now.
I'm thinking I will push out the opening and beam modules after I release the BETA, they will complicate things and may take a few weeks of tweaking and testing before they are ready for prime time. The opening module will be the higher priority of the two.
I've created the template for the integration with the estimating module, but this will also require further fleshing out. In addition there will need to be updates to the cost database and weight database modules that integrate materials for the floor assemblies.
I'm honestly not sure how useful the connection function is as compared to the Truss plugin, but it will be a feature since most of the heavy lifting is already done.
The CUSTOM and SUBTRACT feature will be similar to the Truss plugin, it is in place and appears to be working as it should, further testing would be prudent.
The I-Joist libraries (sizes and types) is much more organized than the previous system and should be easier to maintain and if required more manufacturers can be easily added. I may also add in a "custom I-Joist" option which would allow one to specify the full set of dimensions for a custom sized I-Joist (depth, flange depth, flange width, web width, web material etc...)
Similar to the Truss and Wall plugins, one can specify a comma deliminated remove list to remove specific joists from an assembly.
Still lots to do but it is almost close enough to the finish line to think about putting it out there and start garnering feedback and suggestions.
In the Materials tab of the Global Settings you can switch between the more realistic textures/materials for lumber and pressure treated lumber:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/0/e/0e9266b1e402e138fa7e809ac73d563fe6f459db_2_690x436.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/8/9/899986b119c4144ae879969dd3603b6f5880c829_2_690x403.jpeg)
The Move Floor Edge tool is working as it should:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/2/f/2f898ba0aacfc575f4d93149558c2946560b2eac.gif)
Version 0.9.0 - 09.08.2024
Created the Medeek Floor Plugin, utilizing SketchUp's Ruby API.
Added the draw floor tool with the ability to create I-Joist and solid sawn (lumber) polygon shaped floors.
The Floor extension can be downloaded directly here:
http://design.medeek.com/calculator/sketchup/medeek_floor_ext.rbz
Note that this is a BETA release and does not include all of the future planned functionality (ie. openings, beams etc...) I am only posting this release in a few select locations to allow power users to test it out first and help me further debug and refine it. After approximately a week I will send out a notification to all users letting them know that the release is now publicly available. Hopefully in that time I can catch the most glaring bugs and issues so that my inbox does not become swamped.
Also all those who have been issued licenses in the last year or so will have their expiration update date of their license automatically renewed so that it will be active for one year starting from tomorrow's date (09/09/2024 - 09/09/2025).
Version 0.9.1 - 09.10.2024
- Enabled doubling of individual joists.
- Enabled offsetting of individual joists.
- Enabled global offsetting of joists.
- Added a duplicate floor check to the regen module for all floor types.
- Updated the javascript logic within the License tab of the Global Settings.
**Tutorial 1** - Extension Overview (19:43 min.)
https://youtu.be/ZCUr08o-M24
Version 0.9.2 - 09.11.2024
- Enabled a overhang for deck boards.
- Enabled a global offset for deck boards.
- Fixed a bug with floor presets.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/3/7/37bd5b16324224ae145a6f8ea492eeb36314d53a.jpeg)
Version 0.9.3 - 09.12.2024
- Fixed a critical bug in the Draw Floor menu.
- Added a status icon (Draw Mode: Polyline or Face) in upper right corner of the Draw Floor menu.
- Added the Draw Mode parameter to Floors tab of the Global Settings.
**Version 0.9.3b** - 09.12.2024
- Fixed a HTML/Javascript bug in the Draw Floor menu.
Version 0.9.4 - 09.16.2024
- Added joist hangers to the Draw and Edit menus.
- Added a built-in library of face mount and and top flange hangers.
Tutorial 2 - Joist Hangers (19:57 min.)
Version 0.9.5 - 09.18.2024
- Added a joist direction arrow to the draw floor tool.
- Added a "debug mode" parameter to the General tab of the Global Settings.
- Fixed a bug with deck board placement.
- Fixed a bug with the deck board offset parameter.
(https://community.sketchucation.com/assets/uploads/files/1726706865035-floor_su054_800.jpg)
I have had two requests now for metal bridging or bracing so I took about an hour and modeled up a Simpson TB27 between 2X10 joists @ 16" on center. It actually looks really nice:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/3/4/340ab6f90ac81b266818e3b0f4f64b7ade3b68ef_2_690x423.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/4/0/40b036ce61c8b8fc1863d73a019d386452d4423b.jpeg)
However some things immediately jumped out at me:
1.) I based my TB27 off of the ICF file on Simpson's website so it is dimensionally accurate, however to do that takes quite a bit of time. Modeling like this is fun but very time consuming and one thing I never have enough of is time.
2.) This is the TB27 configured for 2X10's on 16" centers, now think of all the other permutations (including I-Joists). To make this look right would require a preconfigured component for each case. The number of permutations is at least 130 or more.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/4/d/4da8cb6fb26424d77a8c54827b2ca1bf9bbf75aa.jpeg)
3.) If you also consider custom offsets of specific joists then it gets even more crazy.
My thinking is that if I do want to enable something like this it will need to be less detailed geometrically (just a basic representation) and drawn on the fly using an algorithm that checks joist depth and spacing. Rather than specify the exact part number (ie. TB20, TB27, TB30 etc...), just specify that it is metal bridging.
Version 0.9.6 - 09.19.2024
- Fixed a bug with metric floor presets.
- Fixed a bug with the insulation module.
First look at metal bridging (I-joist and Lumber):
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/0/d/0dde7cfa4ab68ae1f28a3481f8af4675e026cee9_2_690x427.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/3/f/3f9f32bc52bfabe3e6f3ec305d46d5561d3fb60a_2_690x449.jpeg)
Geometrically a lot simpler and more lightweight than the preconfigured component that I made based off of the Simpson IFC model. I'm using my galvanized texture/material but I may change it slightly. There are quite a few parameters that one can adjust to customize the look and feel of these metal bridging straps, hopefully that should make things configurable enough for most power users.
As noted per the Simpson literature the crossing straps should not be in direct contact to avoid screeching noises when they move under load. Hence the default 1/8" gap, but this can be modified as can be seen in the menu.
I've also included a thickness parameter for the straps. The correct thickness for a 20 gauge strap is probably around 0.035" however I've rounded the default value to an even 0.04".
Version 0.9.7 - 09.23.2024
- Updated the SUBTRACT feature with three other options.
- Added seven advanced options in the Floor tab of the Global Settings.
- Added metal bridging to the Draw and Edit menus.
- Added solid blocking (Lumber and I-Joist) to the Draw and Edit menus.
- Fixed minor bugs in the HTML menus and preset system.
Tutorial 3 - Metal Bridging and Blocking (10:28 min.)
Version 0.9.8 - 09.27.2024
- Made the polyline/face icon (draw mode) in the draw menu clickable.
- Added a joist direction toggle button/icon to the draw and edit menus.
- Added a stagger joist option to the Draw and Edit menus.
- Updated the insulation, blocking, metal bridging and hanger modules to accommodate staggered joists.
Version 0.9.9b - 10.01.2024
- Updated the Floor tab of the Global Settings with additional parameters for joist construction.
- Fixed a minor bug with the hanger module for double ply staggered studs.
- Fixed a bug in the Draw and Edit menus so that all hangers in the library are properly displayed.
- Added the following skewed (45 degree) Simpson hangers into the built-in library (skew_hangers): SUL410, SUL414, SUL214_2, SUL210_2, SUL26_2, SUR410, SUR414, SUR214_2, SUR210_2, SUR26_2
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/6/2/62b04c7fd2d9cc8ec9883c0dd024cbf21291bca4.jpeg)
Version 0.9.9d - 10.03.2024
- Fixed critical bugs with saving of floor presets.
- Improved robustness of floor attribute library and data lookup methods.
Some incremental improvements but necessary.
IMPORTANT
Note that the last few updates prior to this update introduced a number of new features that effectively disabled the saving of floor presets. Please download this latest update to restore the ability to save floor presets.
Double rim joists with air gap, lapped and extended:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/e/d/ed92a4773ef2f315db198b02f6b951341a5db31b_2_690x469.jpeg)
A quick test of the non-orthogonal floor types shows that the algorithm holds up as it should:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/7/3/73246344a998c71a8f046d464250972954545132_2_668x500.jpeg)
Version 0.9.9e - 10.04.2024
- Updated 2-Ply rim joists with air gap to extend joists that are in a lapped configuration.
- Updated the Floor tab of the Global Settings with even more parameters for joist construction.
- Added the following face mount Simpson hangers into the built-in library: MIU1819, MIU18111, MIU18114, MIU18116, MIU18118.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images3/floor_su109_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images3/floor_su110_800.jpg)
One additional parameter for removing specific rim boards:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/7/e/7e301d5ece2f3d126dbfed0b59f0e919babf9a39.gif)
**Tutorial 10** - Creating a Deck with a Face (9:33 min.)
Version 0.9.9f - 10.17.2024
- Enabled (cosmetic cutting) of individual deck boards.
- Enabled removing of individual rim boards.
The cutting of deck boards was per user request.
Tutorial 11 - Cutting Deck Boards (6:05 min.)
Version 0.9.9g - 10.19.2024
- Enabled wrap for decks.
- Enabled a trim band (picture frame) for decks.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su181_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su180_800.jpg)
Note that these two feature can only be used when the deck board option is turned on.
**Tutorial 12** - Trim and Wrap (6:42 min.)
Version 0.9.9h - 10.21.2024
- Enabled custom overhangs for decks.
- Enabled double trim band for decks.
- Fixed a number of minor bugs related to custom (removal) trim bands and overhangs.
Tutorial 13 - Custom Deck Board Overhang (9:09 min.)
Version 0.9.9i - 10.22.2024
- Added the following layers/tags to the global settings and deck module.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/2/0/20ff28ab30841833f650f1330fcd866622111ade_2_690x454.jpeg)
Two different floor assemblies adjacent and forming one deck. Where they contact I've removed the overhangs, wrap and trim (on one assembly) using the new features recently added. Maybe there is enough functionality now to actually create some real decks.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/0/c/0c4528b32b9bbe05432f923c108cd0358a5ed765_2_690x405.jpeg)
Version 0.9.9j - 10.25.2024
- Added a vertical offset parameter for deck fascia/wrap.
- Added an air gap parameter for deck fascia/wrap.
- Changed the deck "wrap" to deck "fascia in the menus.
- Enabled deck/floor fascia independent of floor sheathing or deck boards.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su193_800.jpg)
Version 0.9.9k - 10.30.2024
- Added floor coverings with an underlayment option.
- Added the floor coverings toolbar with the following five items: Draw, Move, Edit, Regen and Delete.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_coverings_su_menu_active.jpg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/e/e/ee8934a36977d4efc256a79499c72ced4ca65a06.gif)
Version 0.9.9m - 10.31.2024
- Added a "Wall" draw mode to the floor covering draw tool.
- Enabled "Perimeter Options" within the edit menu of the floor covering tool.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su196_800.jpg)
When drawing floor coverings you can now toggle between polyline, face or wall mode. Wall mode will allow you to select any number of Medeek walls (in logical order) which will define the boundary or perimeter of the floor covering. At first I was going to make this a fire-and-forget type of draw mode but instead it makes sense to retain the association even after the initial floor covering is created.
If any of the walls are deleted or somehow the "link" is broken the floor covering assembly will resort back to its "point" mode and the save points generated by the walls. So it will or should fail gracefully in these cases. Also note that there is a wall side associated with each wall assembly, this can easily be changed from EXT to INT or vice versa as needed.
I will make a new tutorial video showing this increased functionality and it should further help explain how this new system works and how to use it. I've been testing this feature for almost five days now so I think it is fairly robust but I am sure there may be specific cases that may defeat my algorithms. Bottom line, this is brand new so proceed with some caution.
Tutorial 15 - Floor Coverings with Walls (11:47 min.)
Version 0.9.9n - 11.06.2024
- Enabled "Openings Options" within the edit menu of the floor covering tool.
Tutorial 16 - Floor Coverings with Openings in Walls (7:59 min.)
Version 0.9.9o - 11.07.2024
- Added a Material X-Offset parameter for the floor covering material.
- Added a Material Y-Offset parameter for the floor covering material.
- Added a Material Rotation parameter for the floor covering material.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su199_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su200_800.jpg)
I will probably add in the same offsets and rotation parameters for the underlayment as well, but I will hold off for now until it is requested. I really want to get back onto the floor opening tool.
Version 0.9.9p - 11.08.2024
- Added a "Wall" draw mode to the floor draw tool.
- Enabled "Perimeter Options" within the edit menu of the floor tool.
Tutorial 17 - Linking Floors and Walls (11:09 min.)
I apologize I got so interested and focused on the wall draw mode for floors that I completely forgot about the updates I made to allow for drawing floor coverings on slab etc... I will drop those updates into the very next release which will probably be this weekend.
As requested here is the edit menu with an offset parameter added to the Perimeter Options:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/c/1/c1d1ab2e37c645c7ec6e33229f72f08a631ea53f.gif)
Version 0.9.9q - 11.10.2024
- Added a perimeter offset parameter within the edit menu for floors drawn in "Wall" mode.
- Added two "Wall Mode Options" to the Floors tab of the global settings: Perimeter Offset and Move Walls.
- Connected the "Move Floor Edge" tool to the Medeek Wall API so that moving floor edges (Wall Mode Only) can also move walls.
- Updated the Draw Flooring tool so that floor coverings can be applied to slabs, slab-on-grade foundations and floor trusses.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su203_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/move_floor_wall.gif)
Tutorial 18 - Moving Walls with Floors (9:17 min.)
Version 0.9.9s - 11.13.2024
- Added the "Open Joist" floor family.
- Added the following TriForce Open Joists: OJ3-11.875, OJ4-11.875.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/8/c/8c89e0a3734e699a62c697e5d417d399c41915ac_2_690x484.jpeg)
Various configurations and example usages of top-bottom and bottom-top for open web (Redbuilt) and steel trusses (K Series):
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/b/b/bba329094fd2ec81927a950d3a75401e3cd3dcb6_2_690x383.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/a/d/adaa906830ee029acda76b3b97a0404f71050178_2_690x404.jpeg)
Version 0.9.9t - 11.19.2024
- Added the "Open Web" floor family (RedBuilt™: Red-L, Red-M, Red-S, Red-M, Red-H).
- Added the following TriForce Open Joists: OJ3-14, OJ4-14, OJ3-16, OJ4-16.
- Added the "Steel Truss" floor family (Nucor®: K-Series).
- Added a removal parameter for sill plates.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su225_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su226_800.jpg)
Version 0.9.9u - 11.23.2024
- Added the "CFS" floor family: ClarkDietrich, JoistRite and TotalJoist.
- Added additional logic for non-standard joist sizes for Open Joists (TriForce).
- Addressed some minor bugs with metal bracing and other advanced options for top chord bearing trusses (Open Web and Steel).
- Added a built-in steel material option for rim joists.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images5/floor_su231_800.jpg)
Let me know on any other floor framing system(s) that I should add.
Version 0.9.9v - 11.24.2024
- Added a "Web Shield" option for PinkWood (PKI) I-Joists.
- Fixed multiple bugs with the floor preset module.
- Fixed a bug related to metric units within the edit menu.
- Updated (Manufacturers: LP and PinkWood) links on the Floor plugin website.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su234_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su233_800.jpg)
They now have this new option called "WebShield":
Version 0.9.9w - 11.25.2024 thru 11.29.2024
- Fixed multiple bugs with metric units within the attribute libraries and edit menu.
- Fixed a bug with offset joists and metal bracing, blocking and insulation.
Version 0.9.9x - 12.01.2024
- Fixed a bug with the SUBTRACT_JOIST feature.
- Updated the algorithm for large span Open Joist floors.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su236_800.jpg)
Rather than insert a fictitious joist size that does not actually exist I decided to insert two short joist products back to back. This seems to be the typical way to handle large span floors with this product (similar examples are given in the product literature). This update was also by customer request.
The update to the SUBTRACT_JOIST feature is a critical update and I highly recommend updating to this latest version if you are using that functionality. Since the boolean subtraction of the joists happens before the final floor assembly is created I had to account for the pre-transformation of the joist geometry and include this within the subtraction method.
Version 0.9.9y - 12.04.2024
- Added Steel Decks w/ Concrete Slabs (Verco®): B-36, N3-32, W2-36, W3-36, SV, DV.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su242_800.jpg)
Tutorial 20 - Steel Decking (8:19 min.)
Version 0.9.9z - 12.07.2024
- Added Roof Sheathing within the Advanced Options.
- Added the following membrane types to the Roof Sheathing Module: BUR, MB, TPO, EPDM, PVC.
- Enabled multi-ply insulation with the roof sheathing module.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su244_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su247_800.jpg)
Tutorial 21 - Roof Sheathing (7:13 min.)
Version 1.0.0 - 05.10.2025
- Enabled an edge material/texture for LSL rim boards.
- Fixed a bug with diagonal deck boards for large aspect ratio decks/floors.
- Fixed a number of misc. minor bugs.
- Added the following steel deck profiles: 2.0D, 3.5D, BCD-36, N3CD-32, W2CD-36, W3CD-36.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su253_800.jpg)
The floor opening tool and the MPC wood trusses are still pending so I really don't want to call this Version 1.0.0 but I also really need to get some bug fixes out the door and some other minor updates and I've run out of letters in the alphabet. In the next couple of weeks I'm hoping to devote all of my time to these two big items and see if we can actually knock them out this time.
I'll be the first to admit that I am spread a bit thin with all of these plugins. I've been bouncing back and forth between the Wall and the Truss plugins for the last couple of months but now the Floor plugin needs my attention.
Version 1.0.1 - 05.18.2025
- Added floor openings with fully customizable headers.
- Added the floor openings toolbar with the following five items: Draw, Move, Edit, Regen and Delete.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/2/f/2f558679f1b4547f5720018bd71ec070944c4ba1_2_690x406.jpeg)
I've been giving the feedback I received thus far on the new opening tool some serious thought and after further testing I can see that adjusting the header extensions to reach out and grab the correct joist is probably the biggest bottle neck in the process, if you can call it that.
Below is an example of a six sided L-shaped opening in a floor. It has three headers and three "trimmers". Note that headers run perpendicular to the joists however the opening tool really makes no distinction between headers and trimmers, they all have the same ten parameters.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/6/5/65e42a8dad70f82a559875d9295d7d32e3b0aa61.jpeg)
I had to make five entries to adjust the headers to meet the I-Joists as shown. Really not that difficult but somewhat time consuming and tedious in my opinion. The solution to this problem could be to have the plugin somehow detect the nearest joist and auto-extend to it. However, I feel that such an algorithm would be overly complicated and probably not very robust.
The other option would be to create a "Header Stretch" tool that allow the user to simply mouse over the header, select one end or the other and then stretch it to the desired location. This tool would be very similar to the "Wall Stretch" tool that is part of the Wall plugin. Rather than navigating through the labyrinth of menus one could simply adjust each end with only three mouse clicks.
Again, I have my work cut out for me.
I've also realized that it is not readily apparent to the user which header is which. I may need to incorporate some sort of labeling option that will assist with this.
The Floor Opening toolbar will now contain a sixth tool called "Stretch Header" which will allow the user to stretch the opening headers in a more intuitive fashion:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/6/9/6901d5461d8c7d7e467ef6a9d12133c4d279e7fe.jpeg)
I'm not really wanting to add more icons to my already bloated toolbars but I feel like this will be a very worthwhile tool and it will almost certainly makes everyone's life a little easier when it comes to these openings.
Version 1.0.2 - 05.22.2025
- Enabled multi-ply floor headers for openings.
- Enabled variable lengths for staggered joists.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su262_800.jpg)
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su263_800.jpg)
You can now enter in a single value for the joist length or you can enter in a list of lengths deliminated by commas. This update per user request.
Version 1.0.2b - 05.23.2025
-Updated the joist removal function for more granular usage when working with staggered joists.
I apologize for all of these micro updates, I would have preferred to roll this out after adding a few more features etc... However, the user who requested this specific ability obviously needs it to complete their project so it is simply a matter of expediency.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su264_800.jpg)
Now one can not only specify a single line of joists to remove but also remove specific joists from a given line, see screenshot above and note the syntax in the Remove Joists field.
Version 1.0.3 - 05.25.2025
- Enabled I-Joist floor headers for openings.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su267_800.jpg)
Version 1.0.4 - 05.26.2025
- Enabled joist hangers for openings.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images6/floor_su269_800.jpg)
Tutorial 24 - Joist Hangers and Openings (7:58 min.)
Version 1.0.5 - 05.30.2025
- Added the ability to stretch opening headers with the "Stretch Floor Header" tool.
Tutorial 25 - Stretching Opening Headers (7:50 min.)
Version 1.0.6 - 05.31.2025
- Added an edit function to the "Stretch Floor Header" tool.
- Added a "Timber" header type for floor openings.
- Fixed minor bugs in the floor opening module.
(http://design.medeek.com/resources/floorplugin/images7/floor_su270_800.jpg)
Tutorial 26 - Editing Opening Headers (5:00 min.)
Looks like I'm about 95% there with floor trusses:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/a/b/ab3ce8c702e550011bc21c83da63c094c04d90df_2_676x500.jpeg)
The only issue appears to be what happens when ribbon boards are enabled and you have an inside corner as shown. I probably need to add in some additional logic to eliminate the slot for the ribbon board in these cases.
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/original/3X/d/3/d384d0aec2f7129b5143d0e01d4f2ffd685876a6.jpeg)
Version 1.0.7 - 06.06.2025
- Enabled MPC Wood Trusses with ribbon boards, multiple chases and gable trusses.
- Updated the Move Floor Edge tool so that it also toggles the metal plate connector layer.
- Update the SUBTRACT_JOIST feature so that it can adequately handle MPC wood trusses.
Tutorial 27 - MPC Wood Trusses (13:25 min.)
Version 1.0.8 - 06.08.2025
- Updated the SUBTRACT and SUBTRACT_JOIST features so that they can better handle MPC wood trusses, steel trusses and open web "Redbuilt" trusses.
- Updated the Floor Opening module so that it can handle MPC wood trusses, steel trusses and open web "Redbuilt" trusses.
- Added a "None" option for the header type in the draw and edit menus for floor openings.
In many cases when you introduce a stairwell opening into a floor like this it will be along the perimeter of the floor assembly as shown. In these cases it is simpler to create your floor perimeter with the opening in mind:
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/b/6/b6ea205ea4dfea3eccb9905d2755d03fcc924caf_2_690x429.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/c/c/cc04e9961a243b766849d7772ee76dffbfd5c47e_2_690x474.jpeg)
(https://global.discourse-cdn.com/sketchup/optimized/3X/7/b/7b03bb5e02377d3b4098e5ac600273ad8c069784_2_683x500.jpeg)
Note, in order to create the additional gable truss (2x6 ply) I first changed my ply width to 5.5" then copied the gable truss at the interior of the stair well, then pasted it in place in the root of the model and then edited the floor assembly back to the typical 3.5" ply width. Alternatively one could simply frame this small pony wall with the Wall plugin (ie. conventional framing) just as easily.
I'm not exactly sure how the trusses would work where the LVL beam/header is positioned at the start of the stairwell, obviously we would need some kind of header at that location.
Here is a link to the model for those who are interested in examining this floor truss example in more detail:
https://3dwarehouse.sketchup.com/embed/62200e55-7a11-4b43-bdac-4d00119d4f01?token=4RdrisG1fJM=&binaryName=s21