Photo: Tim Douglas

Did Google buy SketchUp?

Google acquired SketchUp from its developer, @Last Software, in 2006. As part of the SketchUp platform, Trimble will also partner with Google on running and further developing SketchUp's 3D Warehouse, an online repository where users can find, share, store and collaborate on 3D models.

geoweeknews.com - Trimble acquires Google SketchUp | Geo Week News

Are there any Etsy millionaires?

A WOMAN has revealed the life changing moment she became a millionaire overnight after starting an Etsy company with just £80 to her name. Sep 24,...

Last updated Feb 5, 2019

What is the number 1 stolen item?

#1. Cash. Cash is always on the top of burglars' wish list. Unlike other most commonly stolen items that need to be resold in pawn shops or on the...

Last updated Jan 10, 2022

Promotion

Trimble acquires Google SketchUp

SUNNYVALE, Calif. – Trimble today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire SketchUp, a popular 3D modeling tool, from Google. The transaction is expected to close in the second quarter of 2012, subject to customary closing conditions regulations. While financial terms are not being disclosed the transaction is not expected to be material to 2012 earnings per share, according to a press release.

Google acquired SketchUp from its developer, @Last Software, in 2006.

As part of the SketchUp platform, Trimble will also partner with Google on running and further developing SketchUp’s 3D Warehouse, an online repository where users can find, share, store and collaborate on 3D models. The site enables users to create collections of models, including 3D Buildings, and share them with fellow modelers around the world. Individual models can be loaded, saved and viewed in 3D from within SketchUp or a web browser. For the foreseeable future, Google will host and operate the 3D Warehouse for Trimble and together the companies will continue to offer the same capabilities, functions and services that are offered today, according to the release. The ability for users to submit 3D Buildings for potential acceptance and viewing in Google Earth will be maintained.

Currently the 3D Warehouse has almost two million user-generated models.

On the official Google SketchUp blog, John Bacus, SketchUp product manager, writes that there have been 30 million SketchUp activations in the past year, though he doesn’t say how many of those are the free version vs. the Pro version that costs $495. “SketchUp and the corresponding 3D Warehouse provide an important element of our long-term strategy by enhancing the integration of our field presence with the wider enterprise,” said Bryn Fosburgh, Trimble vice president, in a statement. “Trimble has already created the de-facto standard for field data models and project management tools for our key markets. SketchUp, together with these existing capabilities, will provide a stand-alone and enterprise solution that will enable an integrated and seamless workflow to reduce rework and improve productivity for the customer. Users will be able to collect data, design, model, and collaborate on one platform. The combined capability will enhance our ability to extend our existing market applications including the cadastral, heavy civil, and building and construction industries. In addition, the SketchUp platform will enable Trimble, third-party developers and our distribution partners to efficiently develop new applications.” “In Trimble, we found a partner that will grow SketchUp in a way that best supports the SketchUp team and our users,” said Brian McClendon, Google’s vice president of engineering, in a statement. “While at Google, the SketchUp community grew significantly because the team put users first, and we are confident they will continue to do so at Trimble. We at Google look forward to a continued partnership with Trimble and the SketchUp team.”

SPAR continues to report on this story.

How safe are Barndominiums?

Yes, they are incredibly safe structures. In many ways, the typical barndominium is safer than a regular home. The steel and metal components offer...

Last updated Nov 18, 2020

What does D mean on a penny?

The current mint marks on United States coinage are P, D, S, and W for the 4 currently operating US Mints. The letter P is used for the...

Last updated Dec 30, 2020

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

What is the strongest wood on earth?

Generally acknowledged as the hardest wood, lignum vitae (Guaiacum sanctum and Guaiacum officinale) measures in at 4,500 pounds-force (lbf) on the Janka scale.

woodmagazine.com - What is the world's hardest wood? - Wood Magazine

Q:

I recently made some toy blocks out of an old gnarled Osage orange fence post. It sure made my planer work, but it got me to wondering: What is the world's hardest wood?

—Ronald Martin, Worthington, Ohio

A:

Interesting question, Ronald. The hardness of wood is measured using the Janka Hardness Test. This test measures the force required to push a steel ball with a diameter of 0.444" into the wood to a depth of half the ball's diameter. Generally acknowledged as the hardest wood, lignum vitae (Guaiacum sanctum and Guaiacum officinale) measures in at 4,500 pounds-force (lbf) on the Janka scale. That's more than twice as hard as Osage orange (one of the hardest domestic woods) at 2,040 lbf and more than three times harder than red oak at 1,290 lbf.

Can my Neighbour put up a fence without my permission?

If it's within their property boundary, your neighbour has every right to do whatever they want, including installing a fence. Jan 9, 2019

Last updated Aug 30, 2018

Do you need rebar for 4-inch slab?

No, you do not need rebar for a 4-inch slab of concrete on grade. A 4-inch-thick slab cast on the ground and in permanent contact with it will...

Last updated May 26, 2018

Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Promotion

How long does it take to dismantle a shed?

As long you have the right tools and at least one person is helping to take the shed apart, dismantling the building shouldn't take you more than a...

Last updated Jun 14, 2020

Promotion

What is the difference between a cupola and a steeple?

Is a Cupola a Steeple? Although a cupola may hold a bell, it is not large enough to hold many bells. A cupola is not as lofty as a steeple, nor is...

Last updated Jul 21, 2022