Create a Wireframe Map

To access this screen:

  • Activate the Map ribbon and select New. Choose a Map type with a 3D Image map configuration.

  • Using the Project Data control bar, expand the Map Directory folder. Right-click the Maps folder and select Add Map. Choose a Map type with a 3D Image map configuration.

A Wireframe map, unlike a face map, has a fully 3D surface, not one or more linked face planes.

This map type is supported by both map and 3D world views, with georeferencing support to allow the former to be displayed in the latter. Georeferencing is achieved using the Georeference Wireframe Map screen.

Textured surface data can be imported using the Data Source Drivers , with all common textured surface formats available, including .ply, .obj, .tiff and many others. As the import of data is governed by the drivers, you can choose to pre-process imported surface data, such as subsampling a SiroTiff file, for example.

An example of a newly-loaded wireframe map type, ready for feature capture

However, like any other map, feature digitizing, sketching and other map enhancements are achieved in the same way.

Digitizing projects digitized points directly onto the loaded surface (along the line of sight), meaning polygonal features and contacts are also 3D in nature.

To create a wireframe map, the corresponding configuration file entries must exist, notably a <WireframeMapTypes> collection, with associated properties. Dimensions aren't relevant to this map type as this is determined by the imported data. Similarly, there are no mapping 'planes' either as you digitize straight onto the 3D surface.

Creating a new wireframe map, or activating one automatically enables the following digitizing modes:

  • The centre of 3D Map window rotation is set to the centre of the wireframe map.

  • Always Snap mode is activated. See Snapping to Data.

  • Snapping to the surface of the loaded map is automatically enabled.

  • Rapid digitize mode is enabled. See rapid-digitize-switch ("rap").

To create a new Wireframe map:

  1. With the New Map screen displayed, either accept the default name (or edit it) or create a new name. This field is always editable.
  2. Choose a Map type that corresponds to a Wireframe map configuration.
  3. Click OK.
  4. Follow the data importation steps:
    1. Select a Driver Category.
    2. Select a Data Type.
    3. Click OK

    4. Complete the importation screens (press F1 for more information on a particular step).

    The 3D surface imports and displays in the Map screen (which has the same name as your map).

  5. The Mapping Task Bar updates to show the relevant tabs and commands.

  6. Save your project.

    The 3D surface data is copied to your current Studio Mapper database.

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