PhotoModeler has several automated tools that significantly decrease the time it takes to complete certain types of projects. These tools are:
• SmartMatch feature - automatically mark and reference points on natural features (generating 'SmartPoints') in images, then orients and processes the photos to provide fully automatic project set up and orientation for non-targeted projects (see also SmartPoints Project). While the SmartMatch tools work well independently and can be used on many different types of projects they can also be used as the basis for the creation of DSM (Digital Surface Models) in Premium. DSM are two and half dimension surfaces (think of a rubber sheet with parts pulled up or down).
• Automatic Target Marking - for automatically marking sub-pixel target points in projects with many high contrast targets (see also Automated Coded Targets Project)
• Automatic Referencing - for automatically referencing point marks between photographs in projects (or subsets of projects) that are generally one sided and 2.5D (see also Automated Coded Targets Project)
• Automatic Surfacing - for automatically creating triangular surfaces between points on flat or 2.5D objects, or on 3D convex objects.
• Template Pattern Capture Projects - for digitizing 2D shapes on a flat surface. Though not fully automated, certain set up steps and tracing methods do use automated tools.
The following sections describe each of these tools, how they work, and when they can or cannot be used.
Also see the Automated Coded Targets Project section that describes even further automation possible when Coded Targets are used in a project.