Add a model from a template gallery

In the Create Features pane, feature templates for multipatch layers include Model File . This tool adds a 3D model file to a scene from a gallery in the pane. When you add a model to a scene, the model is imported to the target geodatabase multipatch feature class.

The 3D models in a gallery are stored with the feature template. For steps to add a model to the gallery, see Configure a multipatch feature template.

Add a model file

To add a model to a scene from the template gallery, click Model File , and click the thumbnail in the gallery. You can set the size and orientation of the feature before you add it to your scene.

Tip:

To import large 3D model files, consider using the Import 3D Files geoprocessing tool.

1. In the Catalog pane, add a multipatch layer to your map using one of the following methods:
   • Expand Databases , expand the database containing your data, and drag the feature class onto the map.
   • Right-click the default database, click New, click Feature Class , type the feature class name, choose Multipatch for the geometry type, select the coordinate system, and click Run .

   The layer is added to the map, and a feature template with default settings is automatically created.

2. On the Edit tab, in the Features group, click Create .

   The Create Features pane appears.

3. In the pane, click a multipatch feature template.

   The tool palette appears in the pane.

4. Next to the tool palette, click the forward arrow .

   The tool palette and the feature attribute table for the active template appear in the pane.

5. In the Create Features pane, click Model File .

   The gallery, parameter settings, and a preview of the first feature in the gallery appear in the pane.

   

6. Click the thumbnail of the feature you want to add to the scene.

   The preview window updates.

7. To set the size and orientation of the model, scroll the tool parameters, and expand and set one or more of the following settings:
   • Size—The feature height (Z), width (X), and depth (Y).

     Click the vertical bracket control to link or unlink the dimensions. Linking dimensions scales the model proportionally.

   • Rotation—The feature angle, tilt, and roll in 3D space.
   • Position—The insertion point of the feature along its x-, y-, and z-axis.

   Note:

   The units for size and position are defined by the coordinate system assigned to the scene. For example, if your scene is set to a State Plane coordinate system with units in U.S. survey feet, and your multipatch layer data source is in meters, the units in the pane are in U.S. survey feet.

8. Click Attributes and type the attribute values you want to apply to the new feature.
9. On the Edit tab, in the Snapping group, enable your snapping preferences, and move the pointer back to the map.
10. Add the feature to the map using one of the following methods:
    • Click the map.
    • Right-click and click Absolute X,Y,Z , or press the F6 key, type the values in the dialog box, and press Enter.