Large Dataset Processing in eCognition: Overlapping Tile Method

This video is part of the AmericaView eCognition software tutorial series. It explains a work flow known as "Overlapping Tile Processing." Overlapping tile processing is an efficient method for processing very large datasets using eCognition Server. It is one way of overcoming the memory limitations that are inherent to object-based image analysis.

This presentation is recommended for intermediate to advanced users of eCognition.

NAIP 2010: Proposed States

I found the list of states slated for acquisition as part of the 2010 National Agricultural Imagery Program (NAIP). I don't exactly know what the 3 tiers refer to, but assume it's something to do with funding, with Tier 1 states falling into the "definite" category and Tier 3 states into the "don't bet on it" category. NAIP consists of 1 meter resolution aerial orthophotos. By default, only 3 visible bands (red, green, blue) are acquired, but states have the option to "partner" and contribute funds towards a 4-band product. You can find out the cost of partnering via this link. The 4-band product includes a near infrared band, which is very useful for land cover mapping.


Here is a little-known fact about the fourth band. The contractors flying the data are in most cases acquiring the fourth band, regardless if it is paid for up front. If you are working in a state and NAIP was acquired in 2009 or later and the only deliverable was a 3-band product, try and contact the contractor for that state. You will likely find that they can provide you with a 4-band product, for a price. I received once such price quote from a contractor and it was very reasonable.

What makes NAIP unique is that, unlike most orthophotos, it is acquired during the summer months. It does not make sense to me why a product designed for agricultural mapping does not have the near infrared band included by default, but there you have it.

OBIA and LiDAR article in "Geo: International"

Some of our work using automated feature extraction to map tree canopy is featured in the most recent issue of Geo: International.

Definien’s Christian Weise and Juan José Cáliz Rodríguez describe how a new generation of image analysis software supports the analysis of large volumes of high resolution image data from different sources.

Thanks to the UTC blog from Casey Trees for pointing this out.