Home / Insider /

Ask Greg

How can I use Google Maps and Revu for estimation?

 

Using Google Maps, or other online satellite imaging, is a quick way to do estimation in Revu. Images can easily be copied from the browser and pasted into Revu, where you can use the Measure tool to determine distances and area.

 

We have heard from Bluebeam users who are using this method to find out how many solar panels can fit on a roof or to find the size of a lot for paving estimates. You may also want to find the length of a road or driveway, etc.

 

First, create a new PDF file in Revu.
  • Start Revu.
  • Create a new 24" x 36" PDF file.
  • Change the display scale to 25% or 50% (You want the image to fit on the page without having to resize it).

     

 

Second, copy the image.
  • Open your browser and go to maps.google.com or your favorite mapping site.
  • Change to Satellite or Aerial view.
  • Find the area where you need to take measurements.
  • Open the Snipping Tool that is included in Windows 7 and Vista. Click Start > All Programs > Accessories, and then Snipping Tool.
  • Click New, and then Rectangular Snip.

     

  • Draw a rectangle in the map for the area you want to copy. Start at the corner where the scale is located. Note: You need the scale so you can calibrate the PDF.
  • Click Edit and then Copy in the Snipping Tool.

 

Third, paste the image into Revu.
  • Return to Revu.
  • Place the cursor in the lower left corner and press Ctrl + V to paste the image.
  • Flatten the image to lock it in place.

 

Finally, calibrate and measure the area.
  • Press M to open the Measure tab.
  • Click Calibrate and use the scale in the corner of the image.

     

  • Create the area or length measurement that is needed.

     

 

Tips

  • Google Maps and Google Earth allow you to tilt the view of the map. Make sure you are viewing a flat map (i.e., a view from directly above). A tilted image is distorted and the measurements would be incorrect.
  • Any method of capturing the image is fine. You can use Alt + Print Screen or another tool, like SnagIt, if you are using Windows XP.
  • Press Ctrl + 0 in your browser to make sure that it is displaying at 100% instead of being zoomed in or out.
  • Visit our blog, the PDF Insider, to watch a video of this workflow.