Importing a cloud

Import a point cloud (.asc, .csv, or .mod file type) and convert it to a mesh using the following steps:

1. Click File > Import.

   The Import File dialog is displayed.

2. Select a file and click Open. The cloud of points is imported and the Cloud Tools tab is displayed.

   

3. Click Cloud Tools tab > Create panel > Mesh.

   The Generate mesh dialog is displayed:

   

   • Stepover size specifies the size of the triangles in the mesh. The value that is displayed initially is a rough estimate, based on the size of the mesh. Smaller Stepover size values give a finer and smoother mesh.
   • Hole fill specifies the maximum diameter of holes to fill automatically. The mesh generator attempts to fill holes that have a diameter equal to, or smaller than, the Hole fill value.
4. Update the Stepover size value using one of the following techniques:
   • Enter a new value.
   • Use the Measure tab on the Calculator to measure between two points in the mesh.
5. If required, enter a new Hole fill value.
6. Click OK to create a triangulated mesh:

   

7. Click Home tab > Delete panel > Itemsto delete the cloud and display the mesh:

   

8. Select the mesh.
9. In this example, the mesh needs reversing. Click Mesh Tools tab > Modify panel > Reverse to reverse the mesh:

   

Tip: Files imported that contain grouped points are imported as clouds. If the points are not in a group then individual point entities are created.