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Create Terrain from GeoTIFF

Updated
This feature is included in the following plans: Pro, Premium

One of the most recently implemented features of Plex-Earth is the capability to import terrain from a GeoTIFF file.

A GeoTIFF is a type of raster image file that contains georeferencing information, meaning it includes spatial data that allows the image to be accurately mapped to real-world coordinates. GeoTIFFs can contain both orthophotos and digital elevation models (DEMs). 

In this tutorial, we are going to see the steps on how to create a terrain model from a GeoTIFF with Plex-Earth. 

You can either create a dynamic Plex-Earth terrain model or import it directly as an AutoCAD object (TIN mesh, Contour polylines, points).

Here is the step-by-step procedure we will cover in this tutorial:

Step 1. Select the GeoTIFF file you want to import 

Step 2. Create Terrain

Step 1. Select the GeoTIFF file you want to import 

Go to the Plex-Earth ribbon and on the Contextual Data, click on Create Terrain, and choose Terrain: From GeoTIFF.

Terrain from GeoTIFF.png

Then, you will be prompted to select your preferred GeoTIFF file.

Select file.png

Step 2. Create Terrain

Before importing the terrain model, you will need to select the preferred resolution and the specific area where you want to import the terrain, if needed. Then click Import Terrain.

Select resolution.png

📢 Tip:  The better the resolution, the more points will be needed to cover your area, and the more time it will take for the terrain to be imported. A huge number of points can cause instability issues with AutoCAD, depending on your PC configuration. So select wisely according to your needs. 

Next, you will be prompted to choose the type of surface to create. You can choose among:

  • Create Terrain Model: This will create a dynamic Plex-Earth terrain, where you can use all our advanced settings (create labels, analysis terrain, snap objects on terrain, create volume between surfaces, etc)
  • Insert TIN Mesh: This will create an AutoCAD Object in the form of TIN Mesh
  • Import Contour Polylines: This will create an AutoCAD Object block containing polylines
  • Import Points: This will create an AutoCAD object block containing points

Terrain Type.png

In this example, we have inserted the Geotiff as a TIN Mesh object. 

TIN Mesh.png

If needed, you can also create a realistic terrain by draping an image on the mesh. For more details, click here.

Drape Image to surface.png

Conclusion

Creating terrain from GeoTIFF with Plex-Earth is a straightforward process that enhances your CAD projects with accurate elevation data. By following these steps, you can seamlessly integrate real-world topography into your designs, improving both visualization and precision.

We hope that you have found this tutorial on creating terrain from GeoTIFF, helpful. Feel free to contact us at support@plexscape.com for any questions you may still have.

Don't have Plex-Earth yet? Install a fully functional 7-day free trial of Plex-Earth now!

plex-earth-free-trial.png

Compatibility includes:

AutoCAD Version: 2025, 2024 , 2023 , 2022 , 2021 , 2020

Civil 3D® Version: 2025, 2024 , 2023 , 2022 , 2021 , 2020

AutoCAD Architecture Version: 2025, 2024 , 2023 , 2022 , 2021 , 2020

BricsCAD Pro: V24 , V23 , V22 , V21

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