Editing 3D multipatch features

Multipatch features can be used for different reasons,for example, to enhance 3D realistic symbology of a feature. Multipatch features can be edited in ArcScene, ArcGlobe, and ArcMap, just like all other feature types. However, as multipatch features are usually three-dimensional, and the ArcMap editing environment is two-dimensional, there are some limitations with the tools and functions available in that environment. Since ArcScene and ArcGlobe are three-dimensional environments, there are more edit options available for multipatch features, such as Replace with model and the Insert construction tool. The 3D editing environment for multipatch editing focuses on whole feature management. That is, you can move, rotate, scale, delete, insert, replace, and copy multipatch features, as well as define and populate attributes for the features. Multipatch features can be created by converting 3D symbology to multipatch features or through 3D geoprocessing tools such as Layer 3D To Feature Class. You can also write ArcObjects code for generating complex multipatch geometries.

Supported edit actions for multipatches

Many edit actions are useful for multipatch geometries and are available for use with multipatch features. The list below represents common edit tasks for multipatch features.

• Attribute Editor: Create and maintain attributes for your multipatch features.
• Move: Relocate your multipatch features by interactively moving them or using precise distances.
• Rotate: Rotate the direction a multipatch feature is facing.
• Scale (2D): Resize a multipatch feature (in the x,y plane only).
• Scale (3D): Resize a multipatch feature on its 3D geometry in ArcScene.
• Snapping: You can use multipatch vertices, segments, and faces as part of the classic snapping environment (ArcScene only).
• Spatial Adjustment tools: For multipatch features that were not created within a spatial reference system, adjust their size and position using the standard Spatial Adjustment tools. (ArcMap only)
• Copy and Paste: Copy and paste an existing representative multipatch feature, such as a stylized house placed in strategic locations around the 3D view to develop a realistic scene of a proposed construction.

Unsupported edit actions for multipatches

Some edit actions are not appropriate for multipatch geometries and have been disabled for use with multipatch features. The list below contains some of the edit actions that have been disabled.

• Split Tool: Splitting 3D multipatches using a 2D line is not supported.
• Various Edit Tasks: For example, you cannot extend or trim multipatch geometries or reshape an edge of a multipatch feature using a 2D line.
• Topology edits: Multipatch features cannot participate in a topology.
• Sketch Properties: Vertex level sketch properties cannot be edited in the Edit Sketch Properties dialog box.