Help Database

In Chief Architect, you can add elevation data to a plan and then direct the program to generate contour lines and 3D terrain based on that data.  The program does not generate these contour lines and terrain automatically, however:  in order for changes that you make to the terrain to take effect, you must tell it to do so.

To build or rebuild terrain

1. On Floor 1 of your plan, select Terrain> Create Terrain Perimeter  from the menu.
   
   
   • Before terrain elevation data, terrain features, or terrain modifiers can be created, a terrain perimeter must be present.
     
     
   • If Create Terrain Perimeter is not available, a terrain perimeter has already been created.
     
     
     
2. Using the Terrain Elevation Tools  and Terrain Modifier Tools , make any needed changes to your terrain.
   
   
   • You can also import terrain elevation data from text or dxf/dwg files.
     
     
     
3. Select Terrain> Build Terrain   from the menu.  Your terrain will be updated in both 2D and 3D views.

You can also specify that terrain be rebuilt whenever you create a 3D view by selecting 3D> 3D View Defaults from the menu and checking the box beside Auto Rebuild Terrain in the General Options.

• In X4 and prior select 3D> 3D Settings.