Geometric Modeling

In class:

Administrative:

  • Finish the GIS lecture and present the Google Earth assignment.

Instructional:

We spent considerable time this semester discussing GPS and GIS systems and their advantages. This week we look at adding to the non-spatial data on maps in the form of geometric models. This is a very rudimentary primer and students should not expect to understand all the concepts of geometric modeling; however, these basic tools can be extremely useful in both academic and professional settings.

The addition of mapping data to geometric models provides a more complete 3D view of the landscape. You can then view the location and structure data from all directions with ease. As an example:

A farmer would like determine if the location of a building on a plot of land is appropriate. Using geographic information systems combined with geometric modeling techniques the farmer will:

  • Locate the plot of land in the GIS system
  • Download the data/plot into a geometric modeling system
  • Create and/or download an accurately scaled model of the building
  • Place the model on top of the map data in the proposed location
  • View the model in 3D

For a more robust study of the location the farmer can:

  • Create a road to the building
  • Add fencing and determine the amount of materials required
  • Take accurate measurements to the nearest utilities to determine costs
  • Measure distances to determine relationship to other structures
  • Evaluate various grades to determine drainage requirements
  • Add additional buildings or mechanical systems to determine inoperability
  • Add landscaping
  • Create 3D images to include in a financial and/or business plan/presentation

Numerous possibilities exist and with just a little training, geometric modeling can be an extremely valuable tool. Two packages from Google also make this extremely affordable and easy: Google Earth and Google SketchUp. There are free and pro versions of both packages. For basic use, the free versions will suffice. When elaborate GIS work or modeling is required, businesses should consider the pro versions. They include many additional features of value. We focus on the use of Google SketchUp in this lecture.

Google SketchUp:

  • Two versions, Free and Pro (download from {insert link})
  • Free version has interoperability with Google Earth and we will focus on this capability to create a simple map with a 3D building
  • Creating location based models
  • Outstanding Google SketchUp 8 video series

Geometric Modeling:

  • Virtual models created using computer-aided design software
  • Model features
    • Point
    • Line
    • Surface
  • Modeling tools (Google SketchUp)
    • Moving in 3D space
    • Standard views
    • Creating custom views
    • Drawing shapes
    • Push/pull/extrude
    • Accurate measurements
    • Movement/modification of points, lines, surfaces and models
    • Toolbars and tools primer
  • Add Location... tool (Main Menu)
    • Locate a plot of land
    • Identify the precise area
    • Import into SketchUp
    • Rotate camera to view from different angles
  • Stock models
    • Components
    • 3D Warehouse
    • Insert into model
  • Demonstration of tools to create a simple plot of land with a building in place
  • If you want more information on this topic, check out these videos.

Online:

Complete the Geometric Modeling assignment (100 points) using the specifications below

  • Begin a new SketchUp model
  • Locate a plot of land using the Add Location... tool found in the main menu
  • Mark and import the plot of land into SketchUp (10 points)
  • Create and/or import from the 3D Warehouse an accurately scaled building (30 points)
  • Place the building on to the plot of land in an appropriate location (10 points)
  • Select another accurately scaled object such as another building, large piece of equipment or vehicle
  • Place this second model on the plot of land in an area that “makes sense” (20 points)
  • Create a visually interesting view (perspective) of the entire plot of land by rotating the viewport
  • Save using the Window | Scenes | Add Scene option (5 points)
  • Name the view Land Overview (5 points)
  • Create another view that highlights the main building (5 points)
  • Name the view Main Building (5 points)
  • Create another view that highlights the equipment for vehicle (5 points)
  • Name the view Equipment (5 points)
  • Save the file
  • Upload the SketchUp (.skp) file to the Assessment area of the course management system