Importing models into VU.CITY 3D allows for detailed visualisation and analysis of urban developments. This guide covers the essential steps for importing models, ensuring they are correctly formatted, optimised, and accurately geolocated.

Models can be imported directly into the 3D app or first uploaded to the Project Drive.

Importing the model to Project Drive

1. To import the model to your Project Drive follow this article.
2. Launch the 3D app.
3. Go to Developments / Import / Select the Cloud icon.
4. Choose the model from the list.
5. Click load.
6. Follow the relevant workflow below.

Importing the model directly into VU.CITY 3D

Drag-and-drop your 3D model into VU.CITY then follow the relevant workflow.

Geolocated models

1. If the model is geolocated, go to the File Origin settings.
2. Choose the software package the model was created using.
3. Set the scale the model was built to.
4. Click IMPORT.

Non-geolocated models with known coordinates

1. Choose New origin under the Projection settings.
2. Enter your Eastings, Northings, and AOD in the marked fields.
3. Select the software package used to create the model and the scale it was built to.
4. Click IMPORT.

Non-geolocated models without known coordinates:

1. Click on Set Origin.
2. Click anywhere in the city model to set an import location. The location will be marked by a red dot.
3. The Eastings, Northings, and AOD of the dot will automatically populate the fields.
4. Click IMPORT.

Post-import adjustments

• Click on the location pin to pan the main camera to your model.
• To adjust the position, click on the position icon to place a red/green/blue gizmo on the origin of your model. Click-and-drag to change the position or enter offsets directly into the menu.
• Click on Rotation to switch from moving the model to rotating it. Use the gizmo handles to rotate the model or enter rotation offsets directly into the menu.
• Change the size of the model by entering a percentage into the Scale field.
• Toggle the Eye icon to show/hide your model.

Saving the model

• Click on the Project Drive Upload button to save the model to Project Drive, including import settings and any adjustments.
• Click on the Personal Drive Upload button to save the model to Personal Drive with the same details.

Removing a model

• Toggle the Eye icon to show/hide your model.
• To premanently remove a model, click the tickbox next to it and click the trashcan icon. This will remove the model from the current session but not delete the file from your computer or VU.CITY Drive.