Import 3d mesh (not user's 3d models) from Google earth

[yellowratberni]

Hello, I've those problems importing a terrain from GE into Sketchup:

1- I would like to import not only the terrain but also the 3d buildings that were automatical generated by GE. So I've tried with the "nearby models" function but of course doesn't work because I need the GE mesh not the user's generated 3d models (that in my area dcown't exists anyway).
There is a way to get those mesh?
I really need to model in sketchup with the 3d surroundings

2- I've noticed that also the imported terrain is not the updated terrain on GE and when I try to preview my model in GE I have big problems with the Z axis.

I hope that someone can help me and if the problems are already solved I beg you pardon to waste your time, I've tried to search but I haven't find a useful topic.

PS= Excuse me for my bad english

[dclawson]

I am also desperately seeking a way to do this. All i want is the rough 3d mesh model from earth into sketch up. What a waste of time modeling it myself. The geometry exists, why can't we have access to it?!?! GRRRRRRRR!!

[gulliwog]

I am so glad I found this thread. I am also desperately trying to find if there is a way to basically extract the maximum level of 3D detail from google maps/earth, including any buildings where that data exists.

This level of data exists, I wish there were a way to access it, surely all the same copyright constraints would apply so why keep it locked off? It would be indescribably helpful to access this data and have access to it in mesh form inside an editor... not to be used as final geometry, but just as a template for size, relationships and scale.

Please can someone find a solution to this so we can access this data?!

[David.P]

Same here. I can't believe that there are no responses to this question?

It seems that it is not even possible anymore to import GE terrain in 3D (and I mean only the terrain surface).

Let alone the zillions of automatically created 3D buildings that GE has started to introduce recently, based on the 2D imagery from different view angles.

So is there any word on this, or has trimble basically lost contact to Google, therefore dumping the amazing synergies between Google Earth and Sketchup?

[pbacot]

Terrain still works. I have never thought of getting the buildings myself, and I think if SketchUp could do it we'd have been told.

[David.P]

Yes, terrain still works in 3D, as I've just seen. 3D has to be activated from the File menu after terrain import.

It would however be incredibly useful to be able to import terrain including the 3D items on it like trees and buildings. However it definitely doesn't seem to be possible without complicated workarounds like using 3D Ripper DX.

[mknorr]

I know it can be done with 3DS max. http://community.simtropolis.com/forums/topic/69935-tutorial-on-how-to-extract-3d-models-from-google-earth-to-get-dimensionsproportions-of-building/