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Digital Terrain Model and Orthophoto

The TreeDetect system provides two types of raster outputs for visualizing terrain and canopy structure:
the Digital Terrain Model (DTM) and the Orthophoto.
Both are downloadable as georeferenced .tif files and can also be viewed interactively on the report interface.


Digital Terrain Model (DTM)

The DTM offers an accurate representation of the terrain surface, filtering out vegetation and above-ground objects.
It can only be generated reliably under leaf-off conditions, when LiDAR or photogrammetry data contain sufficient ground returns for modeling the surface.

Output:

  • Downloadable georeferenced .tif raster file
  • Interactive display on the report interface, selectable as a map layer
  • Compatible with GIS software (e.g., QGIS, ArcGIS)

Orthophoto

The orthophoto is a distortion-free, georeferenced aerial image showing the true visual appearance of the terrain and canopy.
This output is generated exclusively from photogrammetry, as image-based 3D reconstruction is required to create the aligned mosaic.
Orthophotos can be produced under both leaf-on and leaf-off conditions.

Output:

  • Downloadable high-resolution .tif file
  • Interactive display on the report page, selectable as a map layer
  • Ideal for visual and field-based analysis

Advantage:
The DTM and Orthophoto together provide a complete view — enabling users to analyze both the terrain elevation and the visual characteristics of the surveyed forest area.