The Volumetrics feature allows users to calculate cut and fill volumes based on a selected base surface and a measurement reference. This is essential for tasks such as earthwork estimation, grading analysis, and site progress monitoring.
How to Compute Volumes
1. Draw the Area
Navigate to the Draw Tool and plot the boundaries of the area you wish to calculate.
2. Enter Annotation Details
Provide the necessary information under the Details tab, then switch to the Measurement tab to access the Volumetrics feature.
3. Select Base Surface
Under Calculate Volumetric, choose the base surface that best suits your analysis. See descriptions of the available options below:
Base Surface Option | Description |
Triangulated | Base is a triangulated mesh |
Best fit | Base is a plane of best fit for all the points on the polygon, so this may not be parallel to ground |
Lowest | Base is a plane parallel to ground at the lowest point of the polygon |
Highest | Base is a plane parallel to ground at the highest point of the polygon |
Custom | Base is a plane parallel to ground with a custom height level |
4. Set Measurement Reference
Select the reference layer where you’d like the volume calculation to be applied.
Note: Supported layer types include 3D Meshes, IFCs, and OBJs (excluding terrain).
5. Run the Calculation
Click Calculate. SKAND will compute the volume based on your defined input.
Interpreting the Results
Once the calculation is complete, SKAND displays the following volumetrics:
Metric | Description |
Area (2D Projection) | The flat (horizontal) area enclosed by the selected polygon. |
Surface Area | Actual surface area accounting for changes in elevation. |
Cut Volume | The volume of material that needs to be excavated above the base surface. |
Fill Volume | The volume of material that needs to be added below the base surface. |
Elevation after Leveling | The average resulting elevation after applying cut and fill. |
Total Volume | Represents the total volume in the enclosed region. |
6. Save the Annotation
Press Create button to save your annotation.
Changing Volume Units
You can easily switch between Metric, Imperial, or US Imperial units based on your project requirements or personal preference. This ensures your volumetric results align with your regional or client standards.
