Introduction to HVE 3D Environments with Google SketchUp

R. Torrey Roberts, P.E., Anthony D. Cornetto III, P.E., Ronny Wahba, P.E. SEA Limited

Originally Published © 2011 Engineering Dynamics Corporation

ABSTRACT Creating an accurate and appealing 3D model for use in HVE is an important part of accident reconstruction simulation. Google has released software in recent years, which can be utilized to create 3D models for HVE environments. SketchUp (SU) is a 3D drawing program by Google that is supported by Google Earth’s (GE) Digital Elevation Model (DEM), Aerial Photography and 3D Warehouse (3DW). DEM data can be imported from GE with overlaid aerial photography and used in SU as a starting point for 3D accident scene modeling. 3DW provides pre-made models of environmental objects and vehicles submitted by other users of SU. The accident scene model created with SU can be imported into HVE as a 3D environment. The 3D model can also be exported to a .kmz file and viewed with GE software. This paper will discuss the use of SU as a 3D environment modeling tool and give some examples of its application. READ FULL PUBLICATION