This paper outlines the technical transition of Terrasolid’s industry-standard LiDAR processing software to the Spatix platform.
Transitioning LiDAR Processing Workflows: From MicroStation to the Terrasolid Spatix Platform
For decades, Terrasolid applications (TerraScan, TerraMatch, TerraModeler) have relied on Bentley MicroStation as their underlying CAD engine. However, the introduction of Spatix—a lightweight, purpose-built CAD engine developed specifically for Terrasolid—represents a major shift in geospatial software delivery. This paper explores the technical motivations behind Spatix, its impact on LiDAR classification workflows, and the benefits of a standalone environment for geospatial analysts. 1. Introduction: The Evolution of Terrasolid
Terrasolid is widely recognized as the market leader in processing airborne, mobile, and UAV LiDAR data. Traditionally, these tools operated as add-ons to MicroStation. To provide more flexibility and lower the barrier to entry, Terrasolid developed Spatix—a platform that allows users to run the same professional-grade tools without the overhead or licensing requirements of a third-party CAD system. 2. The Spatix Engine: Technical Overview
Spatix was designed to mimic the core functionalities of MicroStation required for point cloud visualization and vector drafting while stripping away unnecessary features.
Decoupled Architecture: Terrasolid developers isolated the CAD interaction layer, allowing dialogs and settings to function as native Windows elements.
Visualization Capabilities: It supports 3D terrain modeling, surface generation, and high-performance point cloud rendering.
Native Integration: Spatix is included in the Terrasolid software price, offering a "simpler delivery" and a unified installer for new evaluations. 3. Key Advantages for Geospatial Workflows terrasolid spatix
The shift to Spatix offers several operational benefits for mapping professionals:
Accessibility: New customers can evaluate the software without purchasing a separate CAD license, significantly reducing initial setup costs.
Specialized Filtering: Spatix-based algorithms have proven highly effective in complex environments. For instance, recent studies in snow cover monitoring identified the Spatix-based algorithm in Terrasolid as the most reliable method for snow-free ground filtering.
Interoperability: Users can run both MicroStation and Spatix on the same machine using a single license, facilitating a smooth transition for existing teams. 4. Application in Modern Surveying
Modern LiDAR projects—ranging from UAV-based forest mapping to mobile mapping with vehicle scanners—require robust feature extraction. Terrasolid on Spatix maintains the full suite of classification tools, including:
TerraScan: Ground point classification and point-by-point editing.
TerraMatch: Calibration and boresight adjustment for mobile and airborne systems. Point Clouds: Full read/write access to LAS (1
TerraModeler: Creation of Digital Elevation Models (DEMs) and contour maps. 5. Conclusion
The introduction of Spatix ensures that Terrasolid remains adaptable in a changing GIS landscape. By providing a standalone platform, Terrasolid has successfully removed the dependency on external CAD software while maintaining the high-accuracy processing standards required for professional geomatics and remote sensing. References Introducing Spatix, a New Platform for Terrasolid
Use of Contactless Spatial Data Collection Methods for Snow Cover Monitoring Introducing Spatix, a New Platform for Terrasolid
a 3D CAD platform developed by Terrasolid that serves as an alternative to MicroStation for running Terrasolid's LiDAR and point cloud processing applications
. It is designed to be a simpler, more cost-effective option for evaluating and delivering spatial data solutions. group-md.com Key Features and Functions CAD Alternative : Specifically built to allow Terrasolid applications
(like TerraScan or TerraMatch) to run without requiring a separate Bentley MicroStation license. Identical Functionality
: Tools and workflows within Spatix are nearly identical to those on the MicroStation platform, ensuring a seamless transition for existing users. 3D Drafting and Editing 1. What is Terrasolid Spatix? Historically
: Includes powerful tools for creating, editing, and managing vector geometry in 3D space. Point Cloud Post-Processing
: Widely used for ground surface extraction, point classification, smoothing, and noise filtering in LiDAR workflows. group-md.com Recent Updates Version v26.001 : As of January 2026, the latest Terrasolid Spatix & Microstation Suite has been released. Unified Licensing
: Licenses provided by Terrasolid often allow users to run applications on both Spatix and MicroStation on the same machine. group-md.com Typical Workflows Data Import
: Bringing in raw point cloud data (often from DJI Terra or similar drone software).
: Using Spatix-based algorithms within Terrasolid to classify "bare ground" points. Accuracy Evaluation : Efficiently performing post-processing steps to ensure point cloud data meets project specifications. or specific training tutorials for Spatix-based workflows? Introducing Spatix, a New Platform for Terrasolid
.bin.Historically, Terrasolid software required Bentley MicroStation to run. MicroStation acted as the "CAD engine," while Terrasolid provided the specialized tools for point clouds and imagery.
However, as software licensing costs and development roads diverged, Terrasolid decided to build their own CAD platform. Spatix (often seen in file extensions like .spatix) is the result. It is a lightweight, robust CAD application that provides the necessary geometry and visualization engine to run TerraScan, TerraModeler, TerraPhoto, and TerraMatch.
In short: Spatix is the vehicle; Terrasolid tools are the engine.