In this Blog I wanted to show how to attach a Google Image in Civil 3D using the IMAGINiT Utilities for Civil 3D tool.  I had a support call where the Google Earth image was coming in warped. The solution is straight forward so hope this can help others in the future.

Set Coordinate System

Create your new drawing file from your template. Then on the Prospector tab select the Setting tab. Highlight your file name, which is at the top, and right-click to set the coordinate systems in the Units and Zone tab.

IMAGINiT Utilities Import from Google Tool

In Civil 3D, from the IMAGINiT tab, within the Imagery/Terrain panel, select the Import from Google tool. You will need to zoom to the area of interest or enter the address to get to the right location. From the Import dialog you might pick the Fullscreen view option. Next, pick OK to attach the image to Civil 3D.

When you insert the image, in some cases the image may appear to be warped. There is not an easy way to fix this, so instead, remove the image and repeat the same process to import the image however this time, without the Fullscreen option.

This method will likely not result in a distorted/warped image.

Warped Image:

Image NOT Warped:

I hope this blog helps you if you run into this issue. Check out other blogs that might help you as well.

About the Author

Civil Solutions Team Manager<br><br>Kevin is responsible for managing a team of Technical Engineers who educate and support Autodesk products for all AEC Engineering Services. He has 40 years of industry experience specializing in public sector surveying and right-of-way needs for infrastructure improvement projects and Global Positioning System (GPS) surveying services. Kevin’s 40 years of experience also includes management and field surveying experience on hundreds of transportation, site development, environmental, and construction projects throughout Ohio.

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