3D object scene layer

A 3D object scene layer represents objects such as buildings that are explicitly modeled in three dimensions. You can visualize a 3D object scene layer with textures embedded into the 3D features. A 3D object scene layer is created from a multipatch feature layer or a 3D object feature layer in ArcGIS Pro. A 3D object scene layer is automatically thinned to improve performance and visibility at different scale ranges.

3D object example

An example of a 3D object scene layer is shown.

Visualization

A 3D object scene layer is only supported in the 3D category of a scene.

You can snap to a feature when snapping is enabled.

Visualization and display controls for a 3D object scene layer are on the Scene Layer tab set. Set the minimum and maximum visibility range to use for the layer. Use transparency or swipe functionality to visualize a scene. Set a transparency percentage to see through the chosen layer and reveal information below it. Drag the swipe tool to reveal layers beneath the chosen layer. Face culling and lighting options are a 3D effects property and available for a 3D object scene layer. Modifying the layer face culling property allows you to see through the front or back, depending on which side of the integrated mesh you are viewing. Also, access the Symbology pane to modify the symbology layers.

You can find general information and display control for a 3D object scene layer on the 3D object scene layer Layer Properties dialog box. This includes the i3s version as well as the texture formats for the scene layer. To access the properties, right-click the 3D object scene layer in the Contents pane and click Properties.

Pop-ups

When displaying a scene layer, you can identify attribute information about a particular feature without making a selection or interfering with an existing selection by opening a pop-up. Use the Explore tool Explore Tool to select a feature, or drag a selection box while pressing the Ctrl key to select multiple features. The Pop-up pane displays a list of identified features, grouped by layer, along with a formatted list of field attributes. When authoring or consuming a 3D object or point scene layer, you can configure the pop-ups.

You cannot add Arcade expressions when configuring a pop-up on a scene layer without an associated feature layer due to limited statistical information.

Definition query

For feature-based scene layers, such as point or 3D object scene layers, you can use a definition query. If you are working with a scene layer with an associated feature layer, the query will use the associated feature layer to update statistical information and use it in the query. When using an .slpk file or scene service without an associated feature layer, the statistics within the scene layer are used.

Labeling

You can create 3D object scene layers with labels. Labels will only be written to the scene layer if they are enabled before creating the scene layer. Labels on 3D object scene layers only support label placement on top of the building. Supported label properties include those that are supported in the Web Scene Specification. When consuming a scene layer with labels enabled, you can disable them using the Context menu of the scene layer in ArcGIS Pro.

Work with geoprocessing tools

A 3D object scene layer without an associated feature layer is not supported as an input to geoprocessing tools except the Validate Scene Layer Package, Clip, Upgrade Scene Layer, or Project tools.

You can use a scene layer with an associated feature layer as input to geoprocessing tools that support the same geometry type as the associated feature layer. The analysis operation is run on the associated feature layer and the result is displayed for the scene layer.

Share

To share a 3D object scene layer in a scene, see Share a web scene layer.

Note:

Creating a textured 3D object scene layer using compressed textures improves the display performance of the data in ArcGIS Pro or Scene Viewer.

Related topics