Multi-Site 3D Environment Modeling (Google Earth → SketchUp)

Concept / Idea

Build fast, geolocated site-scale 3D models from Google Earth imagery for VR / planning workflows.

Focus on accurate massing, roads, and site features at correct scale—kept lightweight and clean for smooth handoff to downstream tools.

Objectives

• Deliver SketchUp (.skp) and FBX models geolocated to the real sites.
• Model terrain, roads/striping, curbs, sidewalks, buildings, utilities and major site elements at correct footprint and height.
• Maintain consistent layer/component naming and usable LOD for quick loading.
• Align models precisely to Google Earth; provide quick turnarounds under tight deadlines.

Process

• Geolocation & setup – units in feet & fractional inches; import high-res GE imagery and, where available, topo.
• Blocking & massing – derive building footprints/heights; lay out roads, markings, guard rails, poles, substations and primary site furniture.
• Texture pass – apply projected roof/siding textures from GE and light color swatches for read-ability.
• Optimization – keep polygon counts low (remove heavy trees/cars when needed), merge parts into a single site file, and simplify components.
• Accuracy & fit – fix rotation/overlay drift so KMZ/GE alignment is exact; verify scale against client refs.
• Handoff & iteration – share .SKP + .FBX (KMZ on request), address notes (e.g., remove high-poly vegetation/solar/wind assets for performance), and keep progress logs.

Outcome / Key Features

• Three production sites delivered on 1–3-day cycles with rapid feedback loops.
• Clean, geolocated site models ready for VR and visualization—lightweight, organized layers, consistent naming.
• Exact Google Earth alignment (rotation corrections applied) and performance-tuned files for fast loading on client machines.
• Scope flexibility: added textures/assets when requested; trimmed LOD when file size/performance was the priority.

Tools

• Modeling / Geo: SketchUp, Google Earth (high-res imagery)
• Interop: FBX export (KMZ when required)
• Libraries: 3D Warehouse (select low-poly site assets)