Analyze surface reflections with environment map

Use the Environment Map Analysis tool in Fusion to preview reflections on bodies in the Design workspace. The tool applies a temporary chrome appearance to selected bodies and displays reflections from a standard HDR environment. You can check how light reflects across a surface without switching to the Render workspace.

If you click Cancel, the command reverts and body appearance returns to your design settings. If you click OK, the analysis stays active in the Browser until you hide it.

Create an environment map analysis

1. Click Inspect > Environment Map .

   The Environment Map Analysis dialog opens.

2. In the canvas, select the Bodies you want to analyze.

   Fusion applies a temporary chrome appearance to the selected bodies. When Mirror finish is on, the environment reflects against the chrome surface.

3. In the dialog, select an Environment from the list.

   The selected environment reflects against the surface of the selected bodies.

   Note: Some environments download when you first select them.

4. Drag the Rotate slider to adjust the rotation of the environment, or enter a value in degrees.

5. Optional: Clear Mirror finish to show the chrome appearance without the environment reflection. The analysis stays active.

6. Click OK.

In the Browser, the result displays in the Analysis folder. Click the visibility icon to show or hide the analysis.

Edit an environment map analysis

1. In the Browser, expand the Analysis folder.
2. Right-click the analysis, then click Edit.
3. In the dialog, adjust the selection set and settings.
4. Click OK.

Tips

• Use Environment Map Analysis with other surface analysis tools, such as Zebra Analysis or Curvature Map Analysis, to check surface quality and curvature on the same bodies.
• Rotate works the same way as Position > Rotation for the environment in the Render workspace.
• For a similar preview in Render, open the Render workspace and adjust Scene Settings > Environment Library.