I do the same as you, i.e. I use the ruby script to export in object format. Sketchup has been very useful in finding certain models that I couldn't locate elsewhere. I was not aware of the Timble takeover, but will certainly check it out.  I don't know that it will be a problem for me anyway since I don't do commercial projects.  Have you tried the Sketchup plugin available at Cornucopia 3D? It allows you to save Sketchup models in Vue's vob format.