Using Models

You can use 3D models to represent scenario objects and aid in analyzing and visualizing the relationships among the objects. STK contains detailed 3D models representing objects such as ground stations, aircraft, air strips, satellites, aircraft carriers, and helicopters. Once you specify a model to represent an object, it is graphically displayed in its correct position and orientation, as defined in the object’s Basic properties. Position and orientation can vary over time and can be manually adjusted within the object’s 3D Graphics properties. The center of a model is placed at the X, Y, and Z position of the object it is representing.

Select one or more of the following operations to use models in a 3D Graphics window.

  • Find an Existing Model. There are conversion-free models for STK that are in the COLLADA or the MDL format. 3D model vendors and free online sources often supply models in the COLLADA format. AGI also provides MDL models on the STK install, on the STK Data Disc, via the STK Download Utility, and on the AGI Web site in the Support area.
  • Convert a Model. There are editing and conversion tools that can convert models to COLLADA such as 3D Studio Max, Maya, Softimage, Blender, and Google SketchUp. Conversion from CAD models to COLLADA can be done via Anark Core, Deep Exploration, and PolyTrans. Also, AGI offers a converter for Lightwave (available from the AGI Web site) that can export models to MDL format.
  • Create your own Model. You can use a 3D editing program to create a COLLADA model (see the programs listed above) or you can also create your own MDL model (see Create an MDL Model).

Once you have a model in COLLADA or MDL, you can add the following functionality.

  • Ancillary features consist of articulations (moveable components), attach points, pointable elements, solar panel groups. For COLLADA, see COLLADA Models and Ancillary Features. For MDL, see MDL Model Parameters.
  • Articulations are discussed in more detail at Model Articulations, Model Articulation File, and Articulation Commands).

As you are building or testing your model, you can use the Model Development Environment (MDE)to visualize your COLLADA or MDL models.

After loading your models into STK, you can select one of the following methods to scale a model and adjust the position of any model articulations.

  • Modify Global Model Properties. Select Model Attributes from the Scenario menu to modify attributes for all models in a scenario.
  • Modify Properties for an single model. To modify properties for an object, access the 3D Graphics Model Properties page for that object.
  • Modify Articulation Properties. To modify articulation properties for an object, access the Model Articulation page for that object. The Model Articulation page is accessible by clicking View on the Model Properties page.

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