HowTo: In ArcGIS Desktop 9.2, create 3D buildings in ArcGlobe as 3D models with Google SketchUp

Article ID:	33350
Software:	ArcGIS - ArcEditor 9.2, 9.3 ArcGIS - ArcInfo 9.2, 9.3 ArcGIS - ArcView 9.2, 9.3
Platforms:	Windows XP

Summary

Create and visualize highly-detailed three-dimensional textured models based on GIS data. In conjunction with the 3D Analyst extension, users can use their SketchUp models as 3D Marker Symbols or export them as Multipatch features for further analysis in ArcGIS.

ArcGlobe can display 3D buildings as simple extruded polygons or as advanced 3D models. 3D models are more detailed than extruded polygons and support textures applied to individual sides. 3D models are stored as 3D multipatch features in a geodatabase.

Instructions provided describe the import and export process Google SketchUp Pro in ArcGIS Desktop 9.2.

ArcGIS requires 3D Analyst to visualize the results in ArcGlobe or ArcScene.

Procedure

Follow the steps below:

Go to the Google SketchUp Web site at http://www.sketchup.com/
Download the plugin.
Google Sketchup Plugin
Follow the steps in the workflow guide, which explains how to create 3D buildings in ArcGlobe as 3D models with Google SketchUp.

Related Information

Create 3D buildings in ArcGlobe as extruded polygons
Instructions provided describe how to create three dimensional buildings with varied height and colors in ArcGlobe.

Created: 7/25/2007
Last Modified: 1/11/2010