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Lab Overview
This lab focused on processing UAS mapping imagery using Drone2Map photogrammetric software. Building on earlier mapping flights conducted during the semester, the goal was to generate cartographically correct map products including an orthomosaic, digital surface model, and digital terrain model. The lab also reinforced the transition from geographic coordinate systems in raw imagery to projected coordinate system outputs suitable for mapping and analysis.
In addition to processing data, this lab emphasized producing clean, professional map layouts similar to those created in previous cartography labs.
Reviewing Help Documentation and Software Setup
Before processing began, Drone2Map help documentation was reviewed to understand available workflows and processing templates. Drone2Map was then launched and accessed using Purdue’s enterprise login through Esri.
Several processing templates were available, including rapid, 2D products, 3D products, batch, and custom. For this lab, the 2D Products template was selected since it is designed to generate orthomosaics and elevation models from mapping missions.
Project Setup and Data Import
The project was created using imagery collected from the DJI Mavic 2 Pro during the . Both the large red rectangle and the smaller blue rectangle datasets were processed for comparison.
After importing the imagery, flight lines and image centers appeared on the map. The contents panel showed several layers including project data, image centers, flight lines, ground control, and the basemap. Image centers represented where each photo was taken, while flight lines showed the path flown during the mission.
The basemap was changed from imagery to a light gray canvas to improve visual contrast between the processed outputs and the surrounding area.
Processing Options and Workflow
Processing options were reviewed prior to starting the project. Image adjustment settings were checked, along with coordinate system information and image metadata. In the 2D Products section, both Create DSM and Create DTM were enabled to generate elevation-based outputs alongside the orthomosaic.
Once processing began, Drone2Map moved through several stages including image alignment, dense matching, and generation of 2D products. Status indicators showed progress throughout the workflow, allowing the processing stages to be monitored in real time.
Reviewing Outputs in Drone2Map
After processing completed, several outputs appeared in the contents panel. The true orthomosaic displayed a corrected, map-accurate image of the site. The DSM showed elevation values including buildings, trees, and other above-ground features, while the DTM represented the bare earth surface with most objects removed.
Toggling between the orthomosaic, DSM, and DTM highlighted the differences between surface detail and elevation representation. The DSM emphasized height variations from objects and terrain, while the DTM showed smoother elevation trends across the site.
Exporting to ArcGIS Pro and Map Creation
Processed outputs were opened directly in ArcGIS Pro using the built-in option within Drone2Map. From there, map layouts were created following the same cartographic standards used in earlier labs.
Separate map products were created for both the red rectangle and blue rectangle datasets to allow quality comparison based on flight patterns.
Final Map Products and Upload Location
The following final map products were created and exported as standalone maps:
Digital Terrain Map (DTM)
Digital Surface Model (DSM)
Orthomosaic map
Key Takeaway
This lab demonstrated how Drone2Map can be used to efficiently process UAS mapping imagery into usable map products. Comparing DSM and DTM outputs showed how flight patterns and overlap affect data quality, with opposing grid flights producing clearer results. Overall, the lab reinforced the importance of proper processing settings, coordinated workflows between Drone2Map and ArcGIS Pro, and strong cartographic design when presenting UAS data.
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