September 29, 2020

New Pixels to Points Post Processing Report

Written by: Amanda Lind

 

The latest version of Global Mapper Pro includes several new tools, as well as improvements to many of the existing features and functions. One of the latest features in the Pixels to Points tool is the option to generate a process summary report. Separate from the log file, which is highly detailed by nature, the ‘Post Processing Report’ is designed to efficiently summarize pertinent information from the data generation process. The report records tool settings and displays visual outputs to clearly outline the process.  The new Post Processing Report is polished, easy to read, and includes essential information a user of your data products will want to see, including:

The Summary Chart shows necessary information about the dataset, processing, and output. This information is read from the metadata saved by the UAV when the image was taken, including Image Collection Date, Camera Make, and Flight Altitude.

Screenshot of the post processing report summary for pixels to points.

Other information is calculated during processing, and three generated visual outputs are displayed from a 2D nadir perspective, with relevant details:

The Point Cloud Section provides the total number of points in the cloud, and point density in the form of Average Point Spacing. The Lidar draw mode dropdown sets the cloud display. Below is an example of Color Lidar by Intensity. Screenshot of generated point cloud colored by intensity

The Orthoimage Section shows the continuous orthoimage and provides the image’s resolution.

Screenshot of the generated orthoimage from pixles to points

The 3D Model Section displays the photo-textured 3D mesh along with its Vertex and Face Count.

screenshot of the 3D model

The Camera Positions Section shows the camera icon at the center location of each image relative to the orthoimage to make it easier to visualize area coverage. Areas with higher image coverage will typically have a lower chance of errors, making it easier to spot areas in need of more coverage.

Camera locations overlaid the ortho image layer to show position.

The Camera Positions Chart shows the image name and specifies where the image was taken, including Elevation, Roll, Pitch, and Yaw. The chart makes it easy to compare image metadata for quality control purposes.

The Quality Assessment Chart breaks down processing success image by image. This includes the number of observations, or object points, in each photo that Pixels to Points could find in other images.

The Processing Settings documents specific tool settings used for this output to help you compare which settings provided the best results for your dataset.

The Post Processing Report is a simple and tangible way to review and potentially improve your workflow.  If you’re not familiar with Global Mapper and Global Mapper Prorequest a two-week free trial today. If you would like to speak with a representative about how the software can address your unique geospatial challenges, request a demo!

 

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