Sketchup® is a 3D software used by architects, graphic designers, engineers, game developers, and filmmakers. Google offers a free and paid professional version with innovative features. The software allows users to draw designs in a 2D format and create a 3D representation using editing tools. Google acquired Sketchup® in 2006 and introduced new features, including integration with Google Earth and the 3D Warehouse platform for educators to collaborate and share models.
First conceived by @Last Software and later commercialized by Google, Sketchup® is a 3D software application for a wide range of design professionals. Used by architects, graphic designers, engineers, game developers and even filmmakers, the software application allows users to create 3D representations of their designs. Innovative features are at the heart of the program, including mimicking the feel of freehand drawing with pencil and paper. Google offers the program in both a free version and a paid professional version of which the later one offers additional features geared towards professional use. Additionally, Google provides an online platform for educators to collaborate with students on building projects and Google Warehouse, which allows users to share designed templates.
Using a patented push/pull technology, the software is built upon a modeling environment that allows users to draw designs in a two-dimensional format, just like an artist would with pencil and paper. The familiarity of the process allows designers to easily draw perimeters, lines, objects and contours using the drawing tools. The three-dimensional design is then accomplished through editing tools built into the software, allowing the user to push and pull the lines drawn in the design. Using these editing tools, you get a complete 3D representation of the design, which is useful for designing or making products.
Google’s acquisition of the Sketchup® program was completed in March 2006. The deal was spurred by @Last Software’s development of a plug-in for Google Earth. Subsequently, Google has released various new versions of the software, often introducing new features and improvements or improving existing ones. Through subsequent developments, Google prepared the program for integration into Google Earth, allowing users to insert models into mapping software. These developments eventually allowed Sketchup® users to use geolocation with the Google Earth environment.
Other major developments introduced by Google include both the platform for educators and the 3D Warehouse. Collaboration is at the heart of both platforms with 3D Warehouse allowing users to share models via search capabilities and download capabilities. Users who collaborate in the educator community give students and teachers the ability to create and share 3D models for a variety of subjects, including history, math, and science. Educator community features include discussion rooms, tutorials, teacher lesson plans, and a showcase of student-developed templates. Created specifically to extend the use, application and functionality of Sketchup®, Google encourages participants in the Education Community to contribute to the continued development of the program.
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