3D features
In addition to enabling the visualisation of data in three dimensions, the new viewer provides users with a whole range of advanced tools, such as the simulation of construction projects, their visual impact and their influence in terms of shade and visibility. The example below illustrates – purely virtually – a construction project in the Cloche d'Or district, accompanied by a shadow simulation
Illustration of the use of 3D tools with object drawing and shadow simulation
Example of a 3D height measurement
Here is a brief overview of the various tools available. A detailed tutorial will be available soon.
Tutorial Video
1 Toolbars
1.1 Top left toolbar
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- 3D view
- Oblique image view
- Return to the 2D Geoportal
- Export for 3D printing
- Layer manager
- Drawing management
- Legend
- Display advanced toolbar
1.2 Top right toolbar
- Share (generate images or PDFs; generate permanent links)
- Search (addresses or contact details)
- Advanced settings (language, light or dark mode, image rendering)
1. 3 Advanced toolbar
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- Information button: Allows you to view additional information by clicking on a 2D or 3D object
- Display of a multi-image window to view the four oblique images corresponding to the 3D view displayed
- Shadow simulation tool
- 3D drawing tools
- Swipe tool for splitting the 3D view into two parts
- 3D flight tool for generating videos from the 3D view
- Virtual excavation tool for exploring layers beneath the ground surface (no data available at present)
- Analysis of visual perception from a given point by determining which elements of the territory are actually visible
- 3D object cutting tool: Allows you to hide part (horizontal or vertical) of an object in order to view the inside or what is behind it
- Line of sight: Ability to define two distinct points and draw a line of sight between them to determine direct visibility or the presence of obstructions
- Profile tool: Allows you to generate a profile cut of the terrain (DTM) or displayed 3D objects (DTM)
- 3D measurement tools
2.Examples of how to use some of the tools
Although not all of these tools are intended for universal use, knowledgeable users will be able to make the most of them, particularly with the help of the tutorial that will soon be published on the Geoportal YouTube channel.
To illustrate the value and usefulness of these features, three representative scenarios have been selected:
2.1 Shadow simulation
This feature allows users to select a date and time to view the shadow cast by a building or three-dimensional object. It is a valuable tool for assessing sunlight exposure, particularly in the context of photovoltaic installation or urban development projects.
Illustration of the shadow cast by buildings in Kirchberg on 1 December 2025 at 11:45 a.m.
2.2 3D drawing
Users have access to intuitive tools for creating 3D objects in a very simple and intuitive way. They can define volumes, adjust their dimensions and position them precisely in the virtual environment, which facilitates the simulation of future projects, architectural integration analysis and urban planning.
Fictitious example of a neighbourhood expansion plan
2.3 Visibility
Users have several tools at their disposal to analyse visibility, such as fields of view, 360° analyses and sight lines. In the example shown, the sight line is used to determine whether two points are in direct view or whether obstacles (relief, buildings, vegetation) stand in the way.
