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. If the export can be configured, click the Options button to specify export settings.
  6. Mesh file types export NURBS surfaces as meshes either with the specified meshing options, or the document render 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