Plane

The Plane Mode allows users to move freely through the 3D scene, simulating a “flying” experience. This mode is designed for immersive exploration, particularly suited for large-scale models.

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Difference from Helicopter Mode: The camera always moves forward in the direction it is facing, creating a “fly-forward” effect.

Controls

In Plane Mode, navigation requires the use of both hands, with the keyboard and mouse. The controls are similar to those in Helicopter Mode.

Keyboard Controls

  • Up Arrow or W Key: Move forward.
  • Down Arrow or S Key: Move backward.
  • Left Arrow or A Key: Strafe left.
  • Right Arrow or D Key: Strafe right.
  • R Key: Move up (ascend).
  • F Key: Move down (descend).

Mouse Controls

  • Mouse Wheel: Adjusts movement speed while moving with the keyboard.
  • Double Left Click: Moves the rotation point to the clicked area and zooms in on that area.
  • Left Click and Drag: Rotates the camera around the current position.
  • Right Click and Drag: Pans (translates) the model within the current view plane.

Recommended Use Cases

Plane Mode is ideal for:

  • Immersive Navigation: For a video game-like experience, Plane Mode enhances user immersion within the 3D model, especially for large-scale models.
  • Linear Projects: Particularly useful for navigating long, linear models such as highways, tunnels, or pipelines.
  • Measurement Tasks: While taking measurements, the keyboard can be used to move the camera, freeing up the mouse to operate measurement tools. Useful for precise adjustments. See Measurement Tools.
  • Directional Movement: Unlike Helicopter Mode, Plane Mode allows continuous movement toward the camera’s point of focus, making it ideal for exploring specific areas of the scene.
Last updated on by Loïc Roybon