InfraWorks Terrain Processing and Import
1. Terrain Processing
We use CIVIL3D to create terrain models, including roads. Today, we will focus on demonstrating how to import terrain data.
First, open the terrain data obtained from the surveying department. In CIVIL3D, select all terrain points or contour lines. You can select an elevation point, then right-click and choose “Select Similar” to copy all similar objects.
Next, create a new blank file and paste the copied data using the original coordinates.
Now, create a new surface. Under the surface definition, select the point file and box-select all the points.
Then, add contour lines by box-selecting all of them. Use “Zoom to All” to view the generated surface.
You can export the surface as an XML file or an IMX file. Alternatively, you can export it as a DWG file, but IMX is preferred because it is specifically designed for InfraWorks (AIW) and offers better support.
The IMX file can include various elements such as surfaces, slope groups, roads, and more.
In fact, the IMX format can export all elements from CIVIL3D, including pipelines, scenery vehicles, route auxiliary facilities, and other related data.
2. Opening InfraWorks (AIW)
In InfraWorks, select Data Source, then choose Import and select the IMX file type, as shown in the illustration.
Locate and open the IMX file exported from the previous step.
Proceed to the next step for configuration.
Click on the geographic location icon marked with an exclamation point to set the coordinate system. If you are unsure about the coordinate system, research or ask for clarification.
This step is critical: if the coordinate system is incorrect, the terrain will not display properly on the globe. It’s best to select the appropriate projection zone based on the geographical location. For this project, the Beijing 54 coordinate system with a central meridian in the 75-degree band is used.
After setting the coordinate system, click Close and then Refresh. Note that this refresh is different from the “Confirm Refresh” option in the scene — here, you only confirm the configuration and do not refresh the scene.
Import the Chen Gong data.
Then, continue with other tasks such as handling contour lines, addressing exclamation marks, managing data sources, and verifying the coordinate system.
Related Skills
How to Use the Raster Plugin to Attach Texture to Terrain in Civil3D
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