How To Use Google Earth In Sketchup
Sunday, March 24, 2024
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How To Use Google Earth In Sketchup
Introduction
Sketchup is a 3D modeling program that allows users to create and edit 3D models. It is popular with architects, interior designers and landscapers, as well as with hobbyists who create 3D models for 3D printing. Google Earth is a virtual globe that provides satellite imagery of the planet. It can be used to view 3D models created in Sketchup. The combination of these two programs makes it possible to create realistic models of buildings, landscapes and other features of the world. In this tutorial, we'll show you how to use Google Earth in Sketchup to view 3D models.
Step 1: Install the Google Earth Plugin
Before you can use Google Earth in Sketchup, you need to install the Google Earth Plugin. This plugin allows you to view 3D models created in Sketchup in Google Earth. To install the plugin, launch Sketchup and go to the "Extensions" menu. Select "Install Extension" and then select "Google Earth Plugin". Click "Install" to install the plugin. Once the plugin is installed, you will be able to view 3D models in Google Earth.
Step 2: Create a 3D Model
Once the Google Earth plugin is installed, you can start creating 3D models in Sketchup. To create a 3D model, use the "Create" menu in Sketchup. Select "3D Model" and then select the type of model you want to create. You can choose from a variety of 3D shapes, such as cubes, cylinders, spheres and more. You can also import 3D models from other programs. Once you have created the 3D model, you can edit it by adding colors, textures and other elements.
Step 3: Export the Model to Google Earth
Once you have finished creating the 3D model, you can export it to Google Earth. To do this, select "File" and then select "Export to Google Earth". A dialog box will appear with a list of options. Select the option to export the 3D model as a KMZ file. This will save the 3D model as a KMZ file, which can be opened in Google Earth.
Step 4: View the Model in Google Earth
Once you have exported the 3D model to a KMZ file, you can view it in Google Earth. To do this, launch Google Earth and select "File" and then select "Open". Select the KMZ file you exported from Sketchup and click "Open". The 3D model will appear in Google Earth and you can view it from any angle. You can also use the navigation controls to zoom in and out and rotate the model.
Step 5: Edit the Model in Google Earth
Once you have viewed the 3D model in Google Earth, you can edit it. To do this, select the model in Google Earth and then select "Edit". This will open the model in Sketchup, where you can make changes to the model. Once you have made the changes, save the model and then re-export it to Google Earth. The changes will be reflected in Google Earth.
Conclusion
Google Earth and Sketchup are powerful tools for creating 3D models. By combining the two programs, you can create realistic models of buildings, landscapes and other features of the world. In this tutorial, we showed you how to use Google Earth in Sketchup to view 3D models. We also showed you how to export 3D models to Google Earth and how to edit them in Google Earth.
