In this guide, we will discuss how to import and utilize a SketchUp model in ArcGIS Urban. We will explore the steps to export the SketchUp model to the right format, importing it into ArcGIS Pro, upload it to ArcGIS Online, and finally publishing it on ArcGIS Urban. Let’s go!
1. Export the SketchUp Model
- Open your building model in SketchUp.
- Select the entire model. You can use drag selection or “ select all ” option from menu. There is also the Ctrl+A shortcut.
- Right-click the selected model. Select “ Make Component ”.
- The component creation box appears. You can put a name and other properties here.
- Uncheck “ replace section ” box, and click “ create ”.
- Now go to the Export menu (in File menu) and then choose to export as COLLADA (.dae) file.
- Import the model to ArcGIS Pro
- Open a new ArcGIS Pro project. Use a “ Local Scene ”.
- Right click “ File Geodatabase ” in the Catalog tab.
- Select New > Feature
- A box opens. Give a Name and an Alias here.
- Select “ Multipatch ” in the feature class type drop-down.
- Click Finish to get out of the box.
- Go to the Edit tab to click on Create .
- Find the model file option and click on the green plus sign beside it.
- A file choice box opens. Select the .DAE file you’ve just exported from SketchUp and click on Ok.
- The model will snap to your mouse cursor. Use that to move the model to where it should be placed on the map, and click there. Be careful in this step.
- Save your project. ( Edit>Save ).
Note: you can always select the model and use Edit Tools to adjust and fit the model in the exact position. When done, make sure you Save the project before proceeding.