Loading complex layers

In addition to feature layer data sources which are composed entirely of homogeneous or heterogeneous geometries (points, lines, and polygons) representing geographic features, TerraExplorer Pro also supports the loading of several types of complex feature layers, which combine different data types in one layer. These include:

§   FLY – Skyline's proprietary compressed binary file that includes pointers to feature and raster data, objects, and models. 

§   OGC KML/KMZ – OGC standard, publicly defined layer, which can be composed of feature and raster elements. For more information, see http://www.opengeospatial.org/standards/kml.

When loading an OGC KML/KMZ file, TerraExplorer preserves KML object properties as accurately as possible by translating KML objects to their equivalent TerraExplorer geometries. If there is no TerraExplorer element that precisely represents a KML object, TerraExplorer uses the closest match. See "Export to KML/KMZ" in the "Basic Concepts" chapter for a list of the TerraExplorer – KML translations.

If a KML with a tour element is loaded into a TerraExplorer project, it will open as a TerraExplorer presentation that can be edited (modify the route, add captions and operations, etc.) and played just like any natively-created one. See "Loading a KML with a Tour Element" in the "Presentations" chapter for more information and a list of the supported KML Tour tags.

Loading FLY and KML layers from file

 To load FLY or KML/KMZ layers from file:

§   On the Layers tab, in the Complex Layer group, click the required layer type. Then in the Browse for feature layer dialog that is displayed, browse to the required file and click Open.

Note:       When a KML with a tour element is loaded into a TerraExplorer project, it opens as a TerraExplorer presentation that can be edited and played just like any natively-created one. See "Loading a KML with a Tour Element" in the "Presentations" chapter for information.

Loading FLY and KML layers from SkylineGlobe Server

You can load FLY and KML layers that are published to SkylineGlobe Server. For information on loading layers from SGS, see "Loading SkylineGlobe Layers" in the "Working with SkylineGlobe Server" chapter.

 To load a FLY or KML layer from a SkylineGlobe Server:

1.       On the Home tab, in the Add group, click the arrow next to 3D Layer, and select SkylineGlobe Server. The SkylineGlobe Layers dialog is displayed.

2.       If you aren’t already logged in to the required SkylineGlobe Server, log in to the server. See "Logging In to a SkylineGlobe Server" in the "Working with SkylineGlobe Server" chapter for information.

3.       Search for the required layer. See "Searching for SkylineGlobe Layers" in the "Working with SkylineGlobe Server" chapter.

4.       Select the layer you want to load, and click Load Layer.

5.       After the layer has been placed on the terrain, you can change its properties using its property sheet. See "Setting and Editing Feature Layer Properties" in this chapter for further information.