Drawings and models created using various CAD packages are a core part of measuring and managing work on most sites. CAD linework can be uploaded into the Propeller Platform to visualize existing site conditions against important features and boundaries.
Best practices and tips
- Linework should consist of vector data in DXF, KML, KMZ, or LandXML format.
- Exclude all labels/annotations/grids unless necessary, as these tend to affect the display of linework negatively.
- Linework should only extend up to the survey data on the site.
- Linework files less than 2MB display better.
- Separate linework into multiple files to keep individual file sizes below 20MB.
- 3D linework will reference the file's elevation attribute to display.
Upload a DXF file to your site
From the DESIGNS Tab, click IMPORT A DESIGN. Designs can be uploaded in DXF, TTM, KML, KMZ, LandXML (CgPoints and Surfaces only), or IFC format.
Working with DXF files
Supported DXF entities include Arc, Circle, Dimension, Ellipse, Face, Line, LWpolyline, Mesh, MText, Point, Polyline, Solid, Spline, and Text.
Once imported, several features are available to help customize, visualize, and compare your site against the design file:
Archive and rename individual layers within a DXF file.
Clamp linework to the ground.
- If the linework contains an elevation attribute—even if there are no elevation values—then the Clamp Layer to Ground function can be used to drape the linework over the survey data on the site.
- If the linework displays far below the survey data, add an elevation attribute to the file, re-upload the file, and use the Clamp Layer to Ground function.
Use Compare to Design to measure the volume between your latest survey data and the design surface.
Enable overlay of terrain against a 3D surface.
Convert your DXF to measurements
Convert the entire DXF surface at once
When you upload a DXF surface we auto-generate a polygon boundary that outlines your DXF surface. To convert this to a measurement, right-click on the dashed yellow line.
Convert single or multiple elements within the DXF file
To convert a single element within the DXF right-click and select CONVERT TO MEASUREMENT.
If you wish to convert multiple elements at once, for example, several cross-sections at stations or chainage positions along your road alignment, hold down the shift key to select them in bulk.
Export a measurement as DXF
Measurements created on your site can also be exported in DXF format:
- Export the outline of a polygon or polyline measurement.
- Extract a section of your surface as a TIN surface model (3DFACE).
Read more about custom exports.
I still can't do it!
We wrote these articles to equip you with everything you need to get the job done on your own, but we understand that sometimes this isn't sufficient.
If you're stuck, you can connect with our support team by clicking the support button on the top right corner of your user portal.
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