Google Earth (.kmz) export

KMZ is a file format used to display geographic data in an Earth browser such as Google Earth, Google Maps, and Google Maps for mobile.

To save as or export a Rhino model

  1. On the File menu, click Export Selected or Save As.
  2. In the dialog box, the Files of type list displays the currently supported file types for export.
  3. In the Files of type box, select the supported file type.
  4. In the File name box, select or type a file name.
  5. Specify what is to be saved.
  6. Options

    Save small

    Though clearing the render meshes makes the file smaller, it will shade and render more slowly the next time you open the file.

    Save geometry only

    Saves geometry objects only. No layers, materials, properties, notes, or units settings are saved. This is similar to exporting the objects. A new file is made, but it does not become your active Rhino model.

    Save textures

    Embeds external textures used by materials, environments and decals into the model.

    Save plugin data Saves data attached to objects or the document by plug-in applications.
  7. If the export can be configured, click the Options button to specify export settings.
  8. If the file type creates only mesh objects, in the Polygon Mesh Objects dialog box, specify the mesh settings.

Note

  • Google Earth .kmz files can be published on your web site like an other web-compatible file type (.html, .jpg, .gif, etc.) but your web server needs to be aware of .kmz files.
  • Use the EarthAnchorPoint command to set the earth anchor point.
  • Work in building-sized units, like meters.
  • Set the Perspective view lens length to 21mm. This closely matches the camera angle used by Google Earth.
  • When you save the Google Earth file, make sure you are in a Perspective viewport looking at the object from above ground level.
  • Mesh complicated polysurfaces and keep the meshes small.
  • The diffuse material color is what shows in Google.
  • You can open, edit, and save .kmz files with Google Earth to add additional features beyond 3‑D geometry.

See also

KML Tutorial

Use Rhino to create a 3-D model of a bridge in Google Earth