Introduction to PIX4Dfields
PIX4Dfields is a specialized photogrammetry software developed by Pix4D, tailored for precision agriculture and crop analysis. It enables farmers, agronomists, and researchers to create accurate maps and models of fields using drone and satellite imagery, facilitating data-driven decisions to optimize crop health, resource allocation, and yield. With a user-friendly interface and rapid processing capabilities, PIX4Dfields supports both offline and in-field workflows, making it a powerful tool for digital farming.
Key Features and Functionality of PIX4Dfields
Data Capture and Inputs:
Supports JPEG or TIFF images from drones with standard RGB or select multispectral cameras (e.g., Parrot Sequoia, MicaSense RedEdge, Altum, Sentera 6x for thermal).
Integrates Sentinel-2 satellite imagery for broader field coverage (available since PIX4Dfields 2.0).
Processes nadir images (camera pointing straight down) and supports high-accuracy GPS data from drones like DJI P4 RTK or senseFly eBee X.
Imports field boundaries from farm management platforms or as shapefiles, KML, GeoJSON, etc.
Rapid Image Processing:
Instant processing engine generates orthomosaics, digital surface models (DSMs), and index maps in minutes, even offline, ideal for in-field decision-making.
Offers fast and accurate processing options (introduced in PIX4Dfields 1.11), with the accurate mode producing detailed height models and orthomosaics for trial plots, spot applications, and terrain analysis.
Radiometric correction aligns with PIX4Dmapper, ensuring consistent multispectral data for crop health analysis.
Outputs and Analytics:
Orthomosaic (GeoTIFF): 2D maps blending orthophotos, with false color (.tif) and grayscale (.data.tif) versions for multispectral data.
Digital Surface Model (DSM): Captures major ground shapes, useful for irrigation and erosion analysis, with absolute accuracy of 1-3x GSD or camera GPS accuracy.
Index Maps (GeoTIFF): Pre-determined indices like NDVI, plus custom indices via the Index Calculator (e.g., Anthocyanin Reflectance Index with MicaSense RedEdge-MX Dual).
Zonation and Prescription Maps: Creates variable rate and spot spraying maps for drones, tractors, or sprayers, exportable in industry-standard formats like ISOXML or shapefiles for MyJohnDeere Operations Center.
Statistics: Provides mean, standard deviation, and min/max for DSM and index layers, with exportable CSV data for trial plot management.
Field Management Tools:
Field Boundaries and Obstacles: Draw or import boundaries to trim orthomosaics and indices, and mark obstacles (e.g., trees, poles) for targeted operations.
Annotations: Add point, line, or polygon annotations, exportable as GeoJSON, shapefiles, or KML, with geotagged image support for visualization.
Trimming and Cropping: Focus analysis on specific areas, enhancing precision and reducing data size.
Magic Tool: Simplifies boundary editing and cleanup, with features like hiding grids or swiping for cleanup.
