TerraExplorer supports several types of 3D model layers, including 3D mesh layers, 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS)
- 3D Mesh Layers – High-resolution, continuous 3D models built from connected textured polygons. These models are stored on the server in 3DML or o3DML formats for optimized visualization and efficient streaming.
- 3D Gaussian Splatting (3DGS) Layers – 3D model layers generated directly from photos using volumetric Gaussian primitives rather than explicit polygonal meshes or surfaces, enabling highly realistic visualization without mesh reconstruction or texture baking. 3DGS layers are stored on the server in o3DML format.
- BIM Layers – 3D model layers with Building Information Modeling (BIM) content, including geographic location and attribute data. BIM layers are stored on the server in 3DML format.
Loading and Importing 3D Layers
Mesh and Gaussian Splatting layers in 3DML or o3DML formats can be loaded directly into TerraExplorer. Most other 3D layer formats are converted to Skyline’s proprietary, stream-optimized 3DML format, upon import:
- Models (Point feature layers that reference individual models) – Converted to 3DML in TerraExplorer using the Models to 3DML tool.
- DAE (LODTreeExport.xml) – Converted to 3DML upon import to TerraExplorer using the Import and Convert tools.
- OSGB – Converted to 3DML upon import to TerraExplorer using the Import and Convert tools.
- 3D Tiles (tileset.json) – Converted to 3DML upon import to TerraExplorer using the Import and Convert tools.
- Building Information Modeling (BIM) – Converted to 3DML upon import to TerraExplorer using the Import BIM tool.
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