Drape Image to Terrain (3D Imagery)

Introduction

Plex-Earth has been well known for its endless capabilities. One of them is the ability to convert 2D imagery into realistic 3D models.

This feature can instantly provide information regarding terrain quality, characteristics, altitude variations, etc.

Follow the detailed tutorial to learn more about it.

Step 1: Import Imagery

Step 2: Import Terrain

Step 3: Drape Image to Terrain

Conclusion

Step 1: Import Imagery

Before you begin, you must make sure that the drawing is georeferenced.

Then, you will have to import the image, either as an Imagery Mosaic, or as a Raster Image.

To import an Imagery Mosaic, you can consult this tutorial.

Also, there are other alternatives for the images you can use:

• If you have a World file, like the ones created by Plex-Earth, you can just import it into your AutoCAD using the Impoer World File command of Plex-Earth.
• If you have a GeoTIFF image, you can go to the "Insert" tab of AutoCAD or BricsCAD and select "Attach" from the "Reference Panel section".
• For a general image file, like a JPG/PNG, you go again to the Insert tab, select Attach from the References panel, open your image, and specify the insertion point, scale, and rotation.

Now, you have your 2D image in your AutoCAD.

Step 2: Import Terrain

You can see how you can import terrain by consulting this tutorial.

With that, you have both your 2D image and your terrain in your AutoCAD.

Step 3: Drape Image to Terrain

Finally, you can continue your process and overlay the image to your terrain.

To achieve that, go to the Collection Manager, locate your Terrain, and click "Edit".

Then, go to Tools, and click on "Drape Image".

Then, in the Draping Menu, you will be prompted to select your image. If you want to select a Mosaic, click on the respective Mosaic, and then click "Accept".

If you want to select another image, click on "By Drawing", and then select your preferred image from the drawing.

Next, you will notice that Plex-Earth generates a TIN surface model so the draping can be completed.

Plex-Earth will then complete the draping so that you can enjoy following the privilege of real-life terrain.

📝 Note: Also, you have the option to use the "Drape Image on Mesh" feature from the Raster Tools Menu, as shown below:                                                                                                                                                                                                                                Select the raster image. Keep in mind that you can use this command only with raster images (not Mosaics):                                                                                                                     Then, select the terrain mesh. Keep in mind that the mesh must not be a block. If needed, you will have to explode it first.                   

And this is the final result!

Conclusion

As you must have witnessed, Plex-Earth can truly make your life easier. Now you can have a 3D view of your project's area, without leaving AutoCAD's or BricsCAD's environment. The most pleasant part is that you don't even have to leave your office's environment to experience all this. 

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

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Compatibility includes:

AutoCAD, Civil 3D®, AutoCAD Map 3D, AutoCAD Architecture, AutoCAD Electrical, AutoCAD Mechanical, AutoCAD MEP, AutoCAD Plant 3D: 2026 , 2025 , 2024 , 2023 , 2022 , 2021 , 2020
BricsCAD (Pro, Mechanical, BIM, Ultimate): V25 , V24 , V23 , V22 , V21