Align 3D Image Planes

The Alignment tab contains the input options that are required for scaling and alignment of the image plane in 3D space with respect to the models. A simple two or three point input scheme is used for scaling the image plane to the model size and orienting it in the appropriate view.
  1. From the 3D Image Plane tab, click the Alignment sub-tab.
  2. Under Mode, select the input scheme to be used for scaling and orientation.
    • 2 Point - Two points are used to scale the image to the model, while the orientation of the plane is specified using the Plane option.
      Note: This method is useful for orienting media that are primarily captured in near orthogonal views (Top, Left, Front, Bottom, Right, and Rear).
    • 3 Point - Three points are used for orientation of the image plane in model space. Two of these points are used to scale the image to the model.
      Note: This is useful when standard views are not being used to view images (for example, the images are being viewed on sharp angles).
  3. If the 2 Point method was selected, you must define the plane and pick the reference points on the image and on the model.
    1. Define the normal of the plane using the Plane drop-down menu.
      • XY Top Plane View
      • XY Bottom Plane View
      • XZ Left Plane View
      • XZ Right Plane View
      • YZ Rear Plane View
      • YZ Front Plane View
    2. Use the IN1 and IN2 input collectors to select two points on the image in the image plane viewing area.
    3. Use the N1 and N2 input collectors to select two points on the model.
      Tip: You can also double click on N1 or N2 to display the Select by ID dialog. This dialog allows you to select points by entering an ID number.
  4. If the 3 Point method was selected, you must pick the reference points on the image and on the model.
    1. Use the IN1, IN2, and IN3 input collectors to select three points on the image in the image plane viewing area.
    2. Use the N1, N2, and N3 input collectors to select three points on the model.
      Tip: You can also double click on N1, N2, or N3 to display the Select by ID dialog. This dialog allows you to select points by entering an ID number.
  5. Click Align to scale the image plane to the 3D options selected.
    Attention: The alignment and scaling are dependent on the accuracy and closeness of the points selected on both the video/image and the model. It is recommended that you select two points (or three in the case of a 3 point alignment) which lie on the same depth level. For example, when looking at a car from left side view, points that are on the same side and at similar view depths should be selected (like the left side tires). Incremental adjustments to orientation can be performed with the help of graphical manipulators.
    The plane is embedded in the modeling window. In addition, a new view is created in the Views entity folder in the Results Browser.
    Tip: The Views section of the Results Browser and the Entity Editor can also be used modify various image plane view settings.