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In this video, we introduce the use of georeferenced images in Tecplot 360. For datasets that represent a geographic region, a georeferenced image gives additional context to help communicate the location for your data.
We start with a dataset already open, which are results from the Salish Sea model courtesy of Pacific Northwest National Labs. The Salish Sea is situated along southwestern British Columbia and northwestern Washington State. Without a background map the geography is difficult to ascertain when looking at this model.
To better understand our region, we will import a georeferenced image via Insert > Image/Georeferenced Image… Note that you can also use the image insertion tool on the toolbar.
World Files
A georeferenced image consists of an image file and a world file. Tecplot 360 supports JPG, PNG, and BMP image formats. The world file defines the coordinates for where the image should be placed. Tecplot 360 is unit agnostic, so make sure that your world file is in the same coordinate system as your data. This model uses UTM 10, so our world file is also UTM 10.
Once the image is loaded it is placed in the plot with your data. In this case we’re in a 3D Cartesian view so the image is an actual 3D object which will rotate with the data. As we animate through time notice that the tide drops below our image. To adjust the Z-value of the image, right-click on the image and select Image details…. Note that you can also launch this dialog by double-clicking on the image. Use the slider or text field to adjust the image to a lower location – in this case we’ll use -15. Now you can animate and the surface temperature is no longer covered by the image.
Georeferenced images may also be used in 2D plots. In this case you likely no longer need the axes so you may want to disable the axes and increase the extents of the viewport to use the entirety of the frame. In 2D there is no Z adjustment as the image is always drawn behind the data.
This concludes the tutorial for georeferenced images in Tecplot 360.
Thank you for watching!