Converting a shapefile with z data into a TIN

[MaddyKutsch]

Good morning,

I am not sure if this is possible, and I am still fairly new at 3D Analyst. I am wondering if there is a way to convert a 3D shapefile into a TIN so that an image can be draped over it? Or if there is a simpler way to do this?

Thanks for your time!

[XanderBakker]

Good morning,

I am not sure if this is possible, and I am still fairly new at 3D Analyst. I am wondering if there is a way to convert a 3D shapefile into a TIN so that an image can be draped over it? Or if there is a simpler way to do this?

Thanks for your time!

Hi Maddy,

In case your data consists of points and/or lines, it is better to create a TIN from it. The following links provide some help on that topic:
http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.2/index.html#//006000000010000000
http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.2/index.html#/Create_TIN/00q90000001v000000/

If you have 3D polygons (Polygon Z) you could use it as the floating layer and drape the other layer on top of it. Some explanation of that can be found in the following help topics:
http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.2/#/Defining_data_as_a_draped_layer_in_ArcScene/00q80000...
http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.2/index.html#/Understanding_feature_based_heights_in_3D/...
http://resources.arcgis.com/en/help/main/10.2/index.html#//00q8000000zp000000

Since you say you're fairly new to 3D Analyst, it may be a good idea to follow an introductory course on the topic. Here you find a list of training provided by Esri:
http://training.esri.com/gateway/index.cfm?fa=search.results&searchterm=&search=Search&orderby=&soft...


Kind regards,

Xander