Google Earth and SketchUp
Contents |
Introduction
The combination of Google Earth and SketchUp allow for viewing of models within a context that Google Earth provides. Google SketchUp, the free version of the modeling software, natively exports models to Google Earth. SketchUp Pro 5 will export models to Google Earth via a plugin. The current beta release of Google Earth now supports the display of textures from the exported file.
Many buildings and other models are avaialable via the 3dwarehouse website, a repository of SketchUp models that can be downloaded and imported into any SketchUp scene.
Plugins and exporting
Google Earth export
For details of exporting a file to Google Earth please see the How do I place a SketchUp model in Google Earth? page on the SketchUp Help Center website
3ds Max export
There is a forum topic with an overview of settings and effects on smoothing and textures when exporting a model from SkethUp to 3ds Max.
eDrawings
The eDrawings SketchUp plugin enables exporting a model to an .exe file that can be opened and viewed on any computer, useful for viewing models on computers without SketchUp installed.
smustard scripts
Useful scripts for SketchUp that add a vast array of functionality and short cuts. Some free, some cost a fee.
Competitions
LineofSite
LineofSite is a competition website that runs month-long competitions via SketchUp.
