3D Map QGIS

QGIS 3D is the three-dimensional visualization tool built into QGIS, a popular open-source GIS software. It allows users to view and interact with terrain, buildings, and other spatial features in a 3D environment, similar to ArcScene or ArcGIS Pro 3D Scene view.

Key Features of QGIS 3D View:

  • 3D Map View
    • Open a 3D View from any 2D map in QGIS.
    • Real-time 3D navigation using pan, zoom, tilt, and rotate tools.
  • Digital Elevation Model (DEM) Support
    • Add elevation (Z-values) to your data using a DEM.
    • You can drape vector or raster layers over terrain.
  • Building Extrusion
    • Extrude vector layers (e.g., buildings) using attributes like height.
    • Visualize 3D city models from footprints and elevation data.
  • Materials and Lighting
    • Control lighting direction and intensity.
    • Add textures and adjust material colors (glass, metal, etc.).
  • CRS and Z-axis Settings
    • Supports coordinate reference systems with elevation (e.g., EPSG:4979).
    • Customize vertical exaggeration and terrain scale.
  • Animation & Export
    • Fly-through camera animations (via plugins like TimeManager).
    • Export 3D scenes as images, video, or 3D models (GLTF/OBJ).

Create a 3D Scene

In QGIS you can create a 3D model in a few simple steps:

1. Add a Data layer that contains 3D data, like a DEM

2. Open a new 3D Map View, go to View menu > New 3D Map View (shortcut- Ctrl+Alt+M)

3. 3D Map View window appear, open the configuration options.

4. Select Terrain, set ‘Type’ to ‘DEM (Raster Layer)’ and select your data layer from the drop-down.

5. Adjust the view angle to show the 3D attributes.

6. Finally click Apply, then Ok button.

3D Map View Toolbars

  1. Camera Control
  2. Zoom Full
  3. Toggle On-Screen Nagigation
  4. Identity
  5. Measurement Line
  6. Animations
  7. Save as Image
  8. Export 3D Scene
  9. Set View Theme
  10. Options
  11. Dock 3D Map View

Add 3D View to a Map Layout

  1. Create a new map layout
  2. On the Project manu, select New Print Layout.
  3. Create Print Layout window appear, write the layout name.
  4. Select Add 3D map from the toolbox or from the Add Item drop-down on the main menu
  5. Click and drag to specify the location of the 3D map
  6. Select your 3D Map View from the Copy Settings from 3D View drop-down
  7. Select your 3D Map View from the Set From a 3D View drop-down
  8. Now your 3D view will appear in the map layout.

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