Model Viewer

View 3D models spatially

Overview

Model Viewer allows you to view and interact with your 3D models in a spatial context. This article introduces the key features of Model Viewer, shows you where to find them, and explains how to use them within the application. 

When to use it

• Design Exploration: Use navigation tools to inspect every element of the model - from structural components to exterior view to immersive first person walk throughs. 
• Stake holder Communication: During construction, showcase the final building to stakeholders and capture feedback on potential changes before materials are installed or work is finalised. 
• Progress Comparison: Align 360° site photos with the intended design to track real-world progress against the model.
• Operations & Maintenance: Reveal hidden elements within the model and overlay spatial data, such as IoT sensor information, to support facility management and ongoing operations.

By leveraging the Model Viewer, users can explore, communicate, and manage their assets more effectively throughout the entire lifecycle.

How to use it

Navigate Through Models

Choose from a selection of icon buttons at the lower centre of the application to navigate your way through different tools within your models.

Orbit		Rotate model on Axis. A guide will appear to turn the model horizontal, vertical, rotate 360° and move around
Free Orbit		Free Orbit gives you the freedom to move the model in any direction with your mouse or track pad.
Pan		Moves the whole model without rotating. You can also hold down space bar to activate Pan mode when in Orbit mode.
Zoom		Use this tool to zoom in and out of the model. Alternatively pinch the track pad or use the scroll on your mouse.
First Person		When you click on the First Person icon, instructions will appear to use this tool.
Camera Interactions Camera Roll      (Alt+Shift Drag) Focal Length (Ctrl+Shift Drag) Fit to View (F)		Click the arrow above the camera to pull up the sub menu of camera interactions. Use camera roll to rotate camera lens. Alternatively hold Alt + Shift and move around. Adjust the focal length by moving in and out. Alternatively hold Ctrl + Shift and drag in and out. Fit to view is used to reset the camera view. It will either zoom in and out to fit the whole model into view.
Ruler		Measure model elements, first click to start measure, second click to finish.
Section Analysis		Click the arrow above for the different section analysis axis: x plane, y plane, z plane or add a box to view all different directions. Drag arrows to slice.
Visualize Model Information		Categorically sort and view models in different structural categories.
Explode View		Use the slider to view the exploded model elements.
Model Elements		This button will show you the key elements of the model and enable you to hide or view collections of or individual elements.
Element Properties		Select individual elements, and then use this button to understand all the relevant details of that piece. To hide these details, click the menu bar item again.
Settings		Adjust the way you view your model. Options cover Configuration, Navigation, Appearance and Environment.

Section Analysis

Click the arrow above the Section Analysis icon to select how you want to section the model; x plane, y plane, z plane or add a box to view all different directions. Drag the arrows to slice through the model in different directions.

Visualise Model Information Categorically

Click the Form Cluster button to sort and view models in different structural categories. Click on the button again to exit out of the cluster mode.