Global Shadow

You can display a shadow effect for an entire scene (including terrain and all 3D models, objects, and buildings), for a more realistic visualization that takes far less time to create than shadow generation per individual object. Using TerraExplorer Options, you can select the precise color of the shadow to more accurately simulate the actual lighting conditions. See “Graphics” in the “Using TerraExplorer Options” chapter for more information.

Shadows can be cast for all 3D objects in the 3D Window (whose ground object property is set to Yes) based on the sun’s position. The sun is positioned according to the time, date and time zone you set using the Date and Time controls. The shadows dynamically update when the system date and time is changed.

Note:    Project startup settings for shadows can be set in the Date and Light tab in the Project Settings dialog. See “Date and Light Effects” in the “Setting the Project” chapter for further information.

Note:    The degree of shadow coverage in a specified area and period of time can be calculated using the Shadow Query tool. See “Shadow Query” in this chapter for further information.

Displaying a Shadow

To display a shadow:

1.     In the 3D Window, set the time, date and time zone using the Date and Time controls. See “Date and Time Slider” in this chapter for information.

2.     On the Analysis tab, in the Shadow group, click Shadow.

Note:        If you want to cast a shadow only for currently selected buildings and 3D models, you can create a selection shadow. See “Selection Shadow” in this chapter.