Currently, most GIS applications cannot exploit all of the information within
images. Extracting the information and fusing it with geospatial information is
simply too difficult and time consuming. Conventional automated image analysis
applications are restricted to simple feature extraction across a limited range
of images. Any higher level interpretation requires remote sensing experts, a
step which is time consuming, costly and prone to error. Standardization is
almost impossible. Furthermore, information generally flows in one direction
only – from image to GIS. It is impossible to optimize geospatial applications
by using multiple iterations between image interpretation and GIS analysis.
The Definiens Extension for ArcGIS®
provides a highly efficient work environment. It connects to the ArcGIS®
Desktop products ArcView®, ArcInfo® and ArcEditor™ and extends the functionality
of ArcCatalog™ and ArcMap™ by automated image intelligence applications,
including feature extraction, change detection and object recognition from any
kind of remote sensing images.
- Automated image intelligence applications in ArcGIS®
ArcCatalog™
organizes and manages all GIS information such as maps, globes, models,
metadata, and services. A map is comprised of datasets, which can be raster
images, raster thematic and vector thematic layers. The Definiens
Extension for ArcGIS®
allows ArcCatalog™ to define a collection of maps as a Definiens’ workspace.
Each workspace entry represents a map which can be analyzed with Definiens’
applications. The image analysis can be executed on servers in batch mode for
high throughput or on the user’s workstation to accelerate semi-automated
analysis of individual images.
- Efficient post-processing
ArcMap™ is the central
application in ArcGIS®
Desktop for all map-based tasks including cartography, map analysis, and
editing. The Definiens Extension for ArcGIS®
enables users to review and edit Definiens’ workspace entries using all editing
tools of the ArcGIS® Desktop environment. To accelerate the editing process and
to enable highly accurate delineation, the workspace entries can be opened with
Definiens Architect which contains specific modules to optimize the presentation
of information extraction results for object-based editing.
With Definiens Extension for ArcGIS®,
geospatial applications can be developed which exploit the wealth of information
in remotely sensed imagery. More accurate and detailed maps can be rapidly
produced, presenting information in a standardized and cost efficient way.