Creating realistic looking lines on a GL Transmission Format 3D Model

Summary

As there is currently no Trace tool available for 3D scenes in ArcGIS Pro, so we cannot easily trace 3D models to create new features. With a little bit of preparation we can create a close approximation that can be used for visualization.

Procedure

1. Load the model and create a line feature class. Load the model into a local 3D scene in ArcGIS Pro and create a line feature class with -values enabled. In this example, z-values are enabled. Ideally, our feature class is housed in a geodatabase.

2. Convert the 3D model vertices to points. When we create features in ArcGIS Pro we can use vertex snapping to ensure that the features line up. In a realistic model, it is difficult to know the exact location of these vertices, which makes it more difficult to accurately create the lines. To overcome this, use the Feature Vertices To Points geoprocessing tool, as follows:
   • The Input Features is our model.
   • Specifiy the name and location of the Output Feature Class.
   • Set the Point Type to All vertices to ensure that all vertices are converted.

The tool produces a point layer covering our 3D model, as shown in the image below.

3. Create line features, see: Introduction to 2D and 3D features. Using the Create Features pane we can create our line features. Ensure that vertex snapping is enabled to anchor the new line to the model. Adding multiple line vertices between two model vertices allows better control of the appearance of the lines. Once we have created our lines we can Edit feature vertices to ensure that our approximation is as accurate as possible. We can also emphasize the appearance of lines by altering the symbology, such as using a large tube shape, as shown in the next image.

The end result is a visual representation of lines on the surface of the model.