Topic: Mapping GPS Enabled Photos

[M-dub]

Hey All!

This may or may not be the correct forum to post this question...

We've started a new policy to take photographs onsite every time an excavation takes place and recently purchased a GPS enabled camera.  This project is just getting off the ground, but so far, the best we've got is a plot plan of our site on which I manually place a leader and a symbol.  Both contain a hyperlink to the network folder that stores the photos for each.

To be honest, I'd love to be able to use the Google Maps API to make our own local version of Google Maps, but that's outside the scope of this activity for now.

I would, however like to know if anyone has any experience in mapping GPS enabled photos in AutoCAD or ... anything.  We need this to stay local / not public.

Any suggestions welcome! 

[mjfarrell]

you can try Map Guide open source

and or perhaps just use MAP and the NOTES function to link the photo to the thing in the photo

[Novarese]

I fear you won't get it done in Autocad environment, whilst it's easy to accomplish with opensource software, e.g. Qgis.

[jonesy]

One thats NOT in the AutoCAD arena but Tuoni wrote a program for our website that used the google maps to locate images stored on our server. Did a cracking job of it too

Maybe he could give you a few pointers?

[M-dub]

Bump

We're getting quite a collection of photos we've taken around our site and would really like to "dump them into some kind of system that will only be available to us, locally."

There does not have to be any link to AutoCAD at all.  What we'd like to end up with would be available to anyone at our site.  They'd be able to bring up an aerial photo of the site, and see pins or a marker of some sort that represents the availability of photos for that location.

Anyone have any new suggestions?
Many thanks!

[Mark]

Perhaps ...

Google Maps API for Work
https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/business/

[mjfarrell]

Map/Map Guide

or

QGIS

[VovKa]

Bump

a must have for any land lubber
http://www.sasgis.org/programs/sasplanet/SASPlanet_151111.zip (unzip and run SASPlanet.exe)
but you will have to place your images manually either by clicking on the map or by typing in the coordinates

[M-dub]

Perhaps ...

Google Maps API for Work
https://developers.google.com/maps/documentation/business/

Well, duh!  (why couldn't I have found that?!)

Thanks Mark.  I hope I can get IT to just take it from here.  Fingers crossed!

I'll take a look at the other links as well, guys.  Thanks for the suggestions!

[kirby]

We used the following kludge to do this:
-Call freeware EXIFTOOL (by Phil Harvey, link below) from within EXCAL VBA to export the GPS lat long info
-Convert Lat Long to UTM (in Excel VBA)
-Export a text file (photofilename, N, E, Z, UTMZone)
-Custom AutoLisp routine to write a block to autocad based on the above text file.  Block contains a hyperlink to the photo.

ExifTool by Phil Harvey
http://www.sno.phy.queensu.ca/~phil/exiftool/

GUI for ExifTool by Bogdan Hrastnik
http://u88.n24.queensu.ca/~bogdan/

[mjfarrell]

what camera are you using?

[M-dub]

what camera are you using?

http://www.dpreview.com/reviews/pentax-wg3

[mjfarrell]

hmm, can you post one photo from that camera so that I can test something here?

[M-dub]

hmm, can you post one photo from that camera so that I can test something here?

Hmmmm, well, let's see.

[mjfarrell]

OK, this is what I did...

Imported your image into GARMIN  Basecamp software it is FREE

It brought the image in...and placed on MAP @

N42° 45.976' W82° 27.444'


From here I could export the image data as a SHP file...
place into MAP or Map Guide with a link to the document (the photo)

Or for your purposes, potentially run the Basecamp application on a machine that all others can Remote desktop into
and view the photos in their geographic context from there. This also allows the user to input 'notes' about the picture
as well.


importing it directly into qgis reveals the following metadata:

Driver
GDAL provider
JPEG
JPEG JFIF
Dataset Description
C:\Users\mfarrell\Downloads\IMGP0887.JPG
EXIF_ColorSpace=1
EXIF_ComponentsConfiguration=0x1 0x2 0x3 00
EXIF_Contrast=0
EXIF_CustomRendered=0
EXIF_DateTime=2014:10:23 14:50:25
EXIF_DateTimeDigitized=2014:10:23 14:50:25
EXIF_DateTimeOriginal=2014:10:23 14:50:25
EXIF_DigitalZoomRatio=(1)
EXIF_ExifVersion=0230
EXIF_ExposureBiasValue=(0)
EXIF_ExposureMode=0
EXIF_ExposureTime=(0.01)
EXIF_Flash=24
EXIF_FlashpixVersion=0100
EXIF_FNumber=(4.4)
EXIF_FocalLength=(14.4)
EXIF_FocalLengthIn35mmFilm=81
EXIF_GPSAltitude=(172.2)
EXIF_GPSAltitudeRef=00
EXIF_GPSDateStamp=2014:10:23
EXIF_GPSImgDirection=(348.93)
EXIF_GPSImgDirectionRef=T
EXIF_GPSLatitude=(42) (45) (58.59)
EXIF_GPSLatitudeRef=N
EXIF_GPSLongitude=(82) (27) (26.664)
EXIF_GPSLongitudeRef=W
EXIF_GPSMapDatum=WGS-84
EXIF_GPSMeasureMode=3
EXIF_GPSSatellites=09
EXIF_GPSStatus=A
EXIF_GPSTimeStamp=(18) (52) (10)
EXIF_GPSVersionID=0x2 0x3 00 00
EXIF_Interoperability_Index=R98
EXIF_Interoperability_Version=0x30 0x31 0x30 0x30
EXIF_ISOSpeedRatings=320
EXIF_Make=PENTAX RICOH IMAGING
EXIF_MakerNote=PENTAX
EXIF_MeteringMode=5
EXIF_Model=PENTAX WG-3 GPS
EXIF_Orientation=1
EXIF_PixelXDimension=4608
EXIF_PixelYDimension=2592
EXIF_ResolutionUnit=2
EXIF_Saturation=0
EXIF_SceneCaptureType=0
EXIF_Sharpness=0
EXIF_Software=PENTAX WG-3 GPS Ver. 1.00
EXIF_SubjectDistanceRange=3
EXIF_WhiteBalance=0
EXIF_XResolution=(72)
EXIF_YCbCrPositioning=2
EXIF_YResolution=(72)
Band 1
Band 2
Band 3
Dimensions
X: 4608 Y: 2592 Bands: 3
X : 2304,Y 1296
X : 1152,Y 648
X : 576,Y 324
No Data Value
*NoDataValue not set*
Data Type
Byte - Eight bit unsigned integer
Pyramid overviews
Layer Spatial Reference System
+proj=longlat +datum=WGS84 +no_defs
Layer Extent (layer original source projection)
0.0000000000000000,-2592.0000000000000000 : 4608.0000000000000000,0.0000000000000000
Band
Band 1
Band No
1
No Stats
No stats collected yet
Band
Band 2
Band No
2
No Stats
No stats collected yet
Band
Band 3
Band No
3
No Stats
No stats collected yet

[M-dub]

Interesting.

Thanks for doing that!  I'm hoping to end up with as simple a system as possible.  If we want people to feed into it, it will HAVE to be simple.

I had visions of us having a camera that would also automatically upload the photos to a 'watched' folder once a wifi connection was made.  When the program sees new photos added, it would automatically place them on a map, making the latest and greatest available to everyone via intranet.

I feel like something like that would be ideal, but if we still need someone to perform some of those tasks manually, then that's ok.

I'll have to ask IT to allow me to test a few of these out.

[mjfarrell]

I haven't needed it here, however it looks as if the database could be on server, and a person or persons could upload to that location.
Then all others would see that database when using Basecamp.

[Rod]

If anyone is willing to collaborate I'm willing to share my work in progress lisp routine that extracts exif from photos.
Rod

[mjfarrell]

If anyone is willing to collaborate I'm willing to share my work in progress lisp routine that extracts exif from photos.
Rod

other than that, what else does your LISP do?

does it place the photos in MAP/C3D @ coordinates contained in exif metadata?

[Rod]

Not yet. The plan is to get the EXIF data and
if used in AutoCAD
create position marker using DXF (couldn't see how to do it with with Activex) and set the latitude and longitude properties of the Vla object.

If Map
create a block at the location using the map coordinate system lisp functions

Then hyperlink the object to the image.

Just flat out with other jobs at the moment. I will find the LISP (where I am up to) and post it. Others may have better functions but it would be a start.
Rod

[mjfarrell]

Not yet. The plan is to get the EXIF data and
if used in AutoCAD
create position marker using DXF (couldn't see how to do it with with Activex) and set the latitude and longitude properties of the Vla object.

If Map
create a block at the location using the map coordinate system lisp functions

Then hyperlink the object to the image.

Just flat out with other jobs at the moment. I will find the LISP (where I am up to) and post it. Others may have better functions but it would be a start.
Rod

Instead of hyperlink, I would suggest use MAP function Link to Document where document=source image

[Rod]

Instead of hyperlink, I would suggest use MAP function Link to Document where document=source image

Forgive my ignorance what is "Link to Document"? I don't know this function and didn't find it in the help

[mjfarrell]

Instead of hyperlink, I would suggest use MAP function Link to Document where document=source image

Forgive my ignorance what is "Link to Document"? I don't know this function and didn't find it in the help

Looking for the exact command; however it appears that autodesk may have removed or renamed this command function.


will report back

[mjfarrell]

Im finding this:

Define Document View dialog box



Use this dialog box to define a document view to view external documents attached to an object.
To create a new document view, enter a new name in the Name field. Specify the location of the document name, the document type, and the application to use to display the document, and click Add.
To modify an existing document view, select it in the list. Enter new information in the Document View Definition section, and click Update.
Document view definitions are stored in the current drawing and not in the source drawings.


However not the command to invoke the dialog box, hmmm

[mjfarrell]

OK

looks like the actual command to invoke the dialog box has been 'hidden' to the user.

This used to be a menu item.....

[mjfarrell]

looks like the feature is now available in all autocad based applications using the command

NOTES

however I don't think it is as discreet as the previous viersion

one object multiple documents per object

current version appears to

attach external document(s) to all objects in file.

[cadtag]

maybe check here??

https://map3d.wordpress.com/2010/06/23/using-autocad-map3d-document-view/

[mjfarrell]

maybe check here??

https://map3d.wordpress.com/2010/06/23/using-autocad-map3d-document-view/

And a quote from that page

Once those two steps are complete we have to define the Document View. In order to do this we need to be in the Classic Map workspace. Looks like whoever created the default Ribbons for Map3D forgot these commands or thought we didn’t need them. Using the Map menu pulldown select the Define Document View from the Object Data section.

So that would explain why and or where I could not locate the original command(s)

also one will note autodesk TOTALLY removed the MENU BAR from the MAP (Planning and Analysis) workspace
making it even harder to access the commands one would need for this.

Is it any wonder you guys get tired of my complaining about this sort of carp all the time?  Not to me....


Thanks Cadtag for confirming that I had NOT lost my mind on this.

[mjfarrell]

and MAP CLASSIC WORKSPACE is no longer an option!  AWESOME!

note the date of that post

Published 06/23/2010


confirms that autodesk removed the command(s) or buried them somewhere OFF the RIBBON they FORCED onto us.

[Rod]

Thanks Michael and Cadtag. Not sure if I'll go the route of Document View but I appreciate the explanation. I remember seeing the commands now, never had a use for it.

[mjfarrell]

Thanks Michael and Cadtag. Not sure if I'll go the route of Document View but I appreciate the explanation. I remember seeing the commands now, never had a use for it.

Here is an example of a usage I have seen implemented.


A Power Co-op, purchases items (poles, transformers, switches, etc)
Those items are assigned an asset tag
once in the facility storage-that tag, that item, and it's purchase data are all connected within MAP/asset database
once installed, actual location is entered with GPS, and all records including installation/inspection notes are attached to the object. This even included photos of the objects
after installation.

The end result is that the entire history and records of their assets are linked to those assets.
Turning part of their GIS process into an asset management tool.
As well as being able to source replacement parts from the nearest storage location when the need to replace or upgrade components occurred.

[Mark]

Instead of hyperlink, I would suggest use MAP function Link to Document where document=source image

Forgive my ignorance what is "Link to Document"? I don't know this function and didn't find it in the help

Looking for the exact command; however it appears that autodesk may have removed or renamed this command function.

As Bill Engvall would say "here's your sign"

[Mark]

and MAP CLASSIC WORKSPACE is no longer an option!  AWESOME!

note the date of that post

Published 06/23/2010


confirms that autodesk removed the command(s) or buried them somewhere OFF the RIBBON they FORCED onto us.

Just let it go man, please.

[mjfarrell]

Instead of hyperlink, I would suggest use MAP function Link to Document where document=source image

Forgive my ignorance what is "Link to Document"? I don't know this function and didn't find it in the help

Looking for the exact command; however it appears that autodesk may have removed or renamed this command function.

As Bill Engvall would say "here's your sign"

wow

I thought that was Jeff Foxworthy's schtick?  !

I guess I get another 'sign'

[mjfarrell]

and MAP CLASSIC WORKSPACE is no longer an option!  AWESOME!

note the date of that post

Published 06/23/2010


confirms that autodesk removed the command(s) or buried them somewhere OFF the RIBBON they FORCED onto us.

Just let it go man, please.

wiat...it IS available in MAP 3D however not within Civil 3D....WTH?
I guess that makes sense in a schizophrenic way.

[Mark]

I thought that was Jeff Foxworthy's schtick?  !

There is this thing, it is called Google, you should try it sometime. It is amazing!!

William Ray "Bill" Engvall, Jr. is an American comedian and actor best known for his work as a stand-up comic, his signature "Here's Your Sign" bit, and as a member of the Blue Collar Comedy group.

[mjfarrell]

I thought that was Jeff Foxworthy's schtick?  !

There is this thing, it is called Google, you should try it sometime. It is amazing!!

William Ray "Bill" Engvall, Jr. is an American comedian and actor best known for his work as a stand-up comic, his signature "Here's Your Sign" bit, and as a member of the Blue Collar Comedy group.

read all that, thus my statement, "I always thought that was..."
given that I'm not paid to know the differences between members of the Blue Collar or Redneck comedy tour, I think I'm OK with getting that wrong.

OR as I used to tell a couple of ladies, "As long as it isn't dark, and we aren't both naked and sweaty when I get your name wrong it's OK"