Dividing a line or curve into equal segments in SketchUp is a straightforward process using the built-in Divide tool. This allows you to precisely place points along an edge, which can be incredibly useful for accurate modeling and layout.
Understanding the Divide Tool
The Divide tool doesn't physically cut the original line into separate pieces until you finalize the action. Instead, it visually indicates where division points will occur along the edge. Once confirmed, the single line or arc becomes multiple smaller edge segments joined at the division points.
Step-by-Step Guide to Using the Divide Tool
Here's how to divide any line or arc into equal segments in SketchUp:
- Select the Edge: Begin by selecting the line or arc you wish to divide. You can do this using the Select tool (
Spacebar). - Access the Context Menu: With the edge selected, Context-click (right-click on Windows, Ctrl-click on Mac) directly on the line or arc.
- Choose Divide: From the context menu that appears, select the Divide option.
- Visualize the Division: After selecting "Divide," SketchUp will immediately start showing visual feedback. You will see multiple points appear along the selected line or arc. These points show where it will be divided. Initially, the number of points might be arbitrary.
- Adjust the Number of Segments:
- Visual Adjustment: Move your cursor along the selected line or arc. As you move, SketchUp dynamically adjusts the number of potential division points. Moving your cursor away from the center of the line/arc typically increases the number of segments. As noted in the reference, if you move the cursor toward the center of the line or arc, it will reduce the number of segments. Watch the Value Control Box (VCB) in the bottom-right corner of your SketchUp window; it displays the current number of segments.
- Precise Input: For an exact number of equal segments, simply type the desired number while the Divide tool is active (i.e., after selecting Divide and seeing the points appear). For example, type
6to divide it into six segments. You can also type the number followed by 's' (for segments), like6s. PressEnterafter typing the number. The VCB will update to show the number you entered, and the visual points will adjust accordingly.
- Finalize the Division: Once the desired number of segments is shown visually and/or confirmed in the VCB, either click anywhere along the line or arc, or press
Enterif you typed a value. The original line or arc is now divided into the specified number of equal, separate edge segments.
Key Actions for Dividing Lines
| Action | How to Perform |
|---|---|
| Select Edge | Click the line/arc with the Select tool. |
| Start Divide Tool | Context-click on the selected edge. |
| Select Divide from the menu. | |
| See Division | Points appear on the edge. ("SketchUp place points on the line or arc to show where it will be divided.") |
| Adjust Segments | Move mouse along edge. ("Move the cursor toward the center of the line or arc to reduce the number of segments.") |
| Set Precise Number | Type number (e.g., 8) and press Enter. |
| Complete Division | Click on edge or press Enter. |
Practical Tips for Dividing Lines
- Dividing edges is essential for accurately placing components, points, or creating geometry that needs to align precisely along a line or curve.
- Once divided, the original line is replaced by multiple smaller edges. Be aware of this if you were planning to perform actions on the single original edge.
- The division points themselves can be snapped to when drawing other geometry or placing objects.
Using the Divide tool is a fundamental skill in SketchUp for ensuring accuracy and control over your model's geometry.
