Convert GIS data to a 3D Model

Autodesk Support

Jan 8, 2019

What

Hydraulic engineers typically use GIS data to store and manage information about network systems like sewage or aqueducts. Unfortunately, this data is not suitable for design. But with Civil 3D, designers can import and transform GIS data into a 3D model.

Who

Hydraulic engineers.

How

Before you convert GIS data into a 3D model, your data must contain the main information about pipe and manhole geometry. This information includes diameter, and start and end invert elevations.

  1. In Civil 3D, check the shape file table data to make sure that it includes in and out elevations, and diameter data.

  1. Select Import GIS Data

  1. In the Import GIS Data dialog box, select Connect To Data. For SHP Path, select shape files for pipes and manholes.

  2. Select Object Options, and set Name, Parts List, and Structure Label Style, and Pipe Label Style for the Civil 3D object.

  3. Select Schema and Coordinates, and select the geographic coordinate system.

  4. Select Define Mapping: Pipes, and define mapping for pipes. Select Define Mapping: Structures, and define mapping for structures.

  1. If you need to select specific data, select Query Options and then set query definitions.

  1. Select Clean Up, and define clean-up rules for importing data.

The network pipes are now ready to use as Civil 3D elements.

 

Why

This process connects GIS and BIM. Designers can save time and money by avoiding rework. They have enough information for each step of the design process.

What next

Go deeper with detailed network design, and perform hydraulic simulations with Storm and Sanitary Analysis.


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