Terrain Objects
The following terrain objects can be added to a PhotoMesh project to enable you to visualize how the model will appear in TerraExplorer’s 3D World:
Modifying the Terrain
Using the Modify Terrain tool, you can modify the elevation values in an area of the terrain by drawing a polygon in the 3D Window and then setting the Modify Terrain object’s properties in its property sheet. The surface of the terrain is raised or lowered according to the elevation values of the polygon's points. Different elevation behaviors allow replacing, cropping above or cropping below the original values of the terrain. The interior of the polygon can be flat or irregular in shape.
To modify the terrain:
1. On the Tools tab, in the Objects and Layers group, click Modify Terrain. The Modify Terrain property sheet is displayed.
2. With the cursor in the 3D Window, click to add the first point of the polygon.
3. Click again to add additional points of the polygon until you have marked the entire shape. You must place at least three points to define the polygon.
Note: When creating a Modify Terrain object, the lines of the polygon should not overlap each other.
Note: It is recommended to keep the number of polygon points to the minimum required to define the shape. Adding unnecessary points may adversely affect performance.
4. Right-click to finish the object.
5. Continue to edit the object’s parameters and shape, or close the property sheet to finish the operation. See "Modify Terrain Property Sheet" in the TerraExplorer User Guide for further information.
Cutting a Hole on Terrain
Cutting a hole on the terrain removes the terrain texture while maintaining the original contours of the terrain. The objects or feature layers created on the terrain in the area of the hole are drawn on the original contours of the terrain.
To cut a hole on the terrain:
1. On the Tools tab, in the Objects and Layers group, click Hole on Terrain. The Hole on Terrain property sheet is displayed.
2. With the cursor in the 3D Window, click to add the first point of the hole.
3. Click again to add additional points of hole until you have marked the entire shape.
4. Right-click to finish the hole.
Note: It is recommended to keep the number of hole points to the minimum required to define the shape. Adding unnecessary points may adversely affect performance.
5. Continue to edit the hole or close the property sheet to finish the operation. See "Hole on Terrain Property Sheet" in the TerraExplorer User Guide for further information.