Choosing an Analysis Type
The Analysis Hub opens in its own window in SketchUp. The first time you open the Analysis Hub, you’ll see all the available analysis types laid out in a grid. You can choose which type of analysis you want to perform by clicking one of the tiles.
Note: If you have already created at least one analysis, you’ll see the Analysis Hub dashboard instead. For more information see Using the Analysis Hub Dashboard.
Advanced Shadows is the first analysis type available. With Advanced Shadows, you can observe how shadows change based on a specific solstice or equinox you select. This can help identify how neighboring buildings, trees, or other structures impact sunlight exposure over time.
After performing an analysis with Advanced Shadows, you can then review and interact with your data in the Analysis Viewer. The Analysis Viewer provides a 3D environment with several tools allowing you to adjust your results, toggle visibility, or change analysis settings.
All other analysis types are still SketchUp Public Labs features. That means they are still available, but are a work in progress. The following additional analysis types are available:
Annual Illuminance – Evaluate how well a space is lit over the entire year based on specific climate data. This data can provide general data about how energy efficient a space is and help you determine if your design choices effectively use daylight through multiple seasons and conditions.
Daylight Factor – Simulate an overcast sky to help measure the ratio of internal to external light, regardless of the sun’s position in the sky. This can help you plan for adequate lighting in a space from both natural and artificial sources.
Underlit & Overlit (sDA & ASE) – Identify problem areas that receive too little or too much light. Underlit zones may require artificial lighting, while overlit areas may require more shading or other design considerations.
Direct Sun – Calculates the duration of direct sunlight exposure. This data can help you decide where to place windows in your design, where to put solar panels on your building, and how to add shading elements to your designs.
Date & Time - Observe how daylight in your spaces changes based on specific dates and times.
If you aren’t sure which type of analysis you want to perform, click Watch Tour. A video will appear explaining the different types of analysis to help you narrow down which analysis type is best for the data you want to receive.