Quick Terrain Modeler v7.0.0 Released

QTA Attribute Tables - Working with Point-Level Attributes:
QTA is a new data structure that establishes an attribute table/index when importing QTC point clouds. These attributes are typically the point data record attributes of an LAS file, but can also be imported from attribute columns of an ASCII file. Because Quick Terrain Modeler can now access all attribute values on a per-point basis, the QTA structure enables the following functions:

• Query of all attribute values (e.g., intensity, return number, classification, etc.) for a single point.
• Custom coloration based on attribute values (e.g., color points by return number, classification value, scan angle, etc.)
• Filtering point clouds based on attribute values.
• Performing grid statistics on specific attribute values.
• Placing any attribute in the Z-axis, essentially replacing elevation with another property of the data.
• Writing LAS files with fully populated point data record values.

Proxy Mode: Working with Enormous Files:
Proxy mode is a new tool that enables working with data sets that, from a practical perspective, are unlimited in size. Proxy mode uses the QTA structure to create an index that connects a large source data file to a decimated point cloud. While only a portion of the points are being displayed, analysis functions are performed on the entire source data set.

Batch Scripting:
Batch scripting allows the user to create customized scripts to automate repetitive tasks. The initial functions that can be scripted are import, save, convert model to UTM, and a variety of export formats.

Point to Point Line of Sight:
This new Line of Sight (LOS) tool enables detailed terrain and visibility analysis between observers/targets in a terrain. It not only provides an instantaneous yes/no answer to visibility questions, but also provides a terrain profile, distances, changes in elevation, and angle of inclination between terrain positions. (USA Version Only)

Import Merged GeoTIFF DEM's:
This function was implemented for DoD users who wanted to load multiple large GeoTIFF DEM files, but were constrained by memory limitations. Importing merged and/or downsampled GeoTIFF DEM's enables users to work with significantly larger areas of interest.

Undo Function:
Added an "Undo" function that will undo the last cut or crop operation.

AGL Analyst:
AGL Analyst now works on QTT Models (DEM's).

Customized ASCII Export Configuration:
This tool allows users to set the number of decimal places as well as the column order for data exported as an ASCII text file. This will enable setting appropriate levels of precision, thus minimizing ASCII text file sizes by simply minimizing the number of ASCII characters written.

HTML Help:
QTM help files are now HTML help. This will enable using help files in Vista.

Sentinel Keys & Floating Licenses:
Quick Terrain Modeler will now be able to access multiple keys from the same Sentinel server, thus giving flexibility to the enterprise QTM deployment architecture.

AGL/Alpha Clipping:
Added ability to manually set slider range for GL Clip.
Added ability to copy intensity into alpha.

Revamped Clipping Planes:
Users can now implement six simultaneous clipping planes: above and below user specified X, Y, and Z values.

Markers:
Increased range of marker size slider as well as improved interactivity with shape files.

Mensuration/Profiles:
Added numerous tools to make measurements and profiles easier and more intuitive for both point clouds and DEM's..

Convert Model:
Added ability to convert QTC Models between Geodetic and UTM.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 7.0.0:

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Quick Terrain Modeler v6.1.2 Released

Quick Terrain Modeler V6.1.2 adds several new tools that continue to make exploitation of point clouds easier, faster, and more intuitive. Between the existing grid statistics tool, the new AGL Analyst tool, and the new point cloud “slicing and stepping” capability, users can choose to visualize and isolate points spatially (by absolute elevation, by AGL height, by selection area, or by profile “slice”) and/or statistically. These capabilities enhance the user’s understanding of the point cloud data, regardless of whether the intended use is for Quality Assurance (QA), earth science, forestry, feature identification (on a surface or under the canopy), vertical object (VO) identification, or mission planning. Applied Imagery’s goal is to make visualization, analysis, and exploitation of LiDAR data powerful, flexible, intuitive, and simple. Many of our tools are based on user feedback, so thank you and please continue to provide feedback and suggestions.

Also, please do not forget that, as of version 6.1.0, all of these tools are now available in both 32-bit and 64-bit versions.

Version 6.1.2 New Features:

AGL Analyst (Analysis Menu)

Because many users would rather work with relative, Above Ground Level (AGL) heights rather than absolute elevations, Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.1.2 introduces a powerful tool called AGL (Above Ground Level) Analyst. Some of the most common reasons for wanting to work in AGL space are to measure tree and roof heights, to measure the height of potential vertical obstructions (VO’s), and to selectively remove vegetation and canopy from a point cloud, thus enabling the user to see and identify objects under foliage or other obstructions. This tool calculates and assigns an AGL elevation value, in addition to an absolute elevation value, to every point in a point cloud or every vertex in a surface model. The simple steps of AGL Analyst are as follows:

• Calculate AGL heights of every point either by comparing to a bare earth model (if available) or by quickly estimating a ground surface.
• Once AGL Values are calculated, apply a color scheme based on AGL heights, rather than absolute heights.
• Exploit the AGL model by querying points for their AGL heights, clipping data based on height AGL (i.e., temporarily removing points based on their heights above ground), and swapping the AGL elevation values with the absolute elevation values, and displaying an AGL height legend.
• Since Alpha Filtering (Analysis Menu) is the mechanism for clipping by AGL, the alpha filtering interface has been modified to offer more options in filtering based on alpha (i.e., AGL heights). Users can now enter values manually or filter “equal to” specific values.
• Export products such as the 3D ground estimate, an ASCII file of the AGL points, and point clouds edited by AGL values.

Point Cloud Profiles – “Slicing and Stepping” (Mensuration Profile Window)

Version 6.1.2 adds the ability to quickly move a “scatter plot” profile area through a point cloud. This tool will aid in quickly identifying features and terrain characteristics in a point cloud that may be obscured by returns from foliage. The user simply takes a “slice” of the point cloud, views it in profile, and “steps” through the model based on that slice.

Markers (Marker Menu)

Based on user feedback, markers have been significantly enhanced in Version 6.1.2. The upgrades are as follows:

• Much more comprehensive “Marker Options” menu (Markers Menu) that enables the setting of most marker display options from a single interface.
• Marker “Billboards” which enable the display of a larger amount of text (i.e., more than the existing “Marker Name” text) on a white background. Billboards will enable detailed descriptions of features and locations.
• Marker position in label. Users can now choose to have the marker X-Y location displayed in the marker name or billboard. The display can be in coordinates of UTM, Geodetic, MGRS, or Cartesian.

Grid Stats (Analysis Menu/Grid Stats Button)

• Grid stats now counts empty cells in the “Number of Points” and “Density” calculations and export products. This enables the use of “Number of Points” in Quality Assurance (QA) workflows.
• Added legend support for Grid Stat calculation displays. The legend will now display the statistic calculated, the color range, and the range values.
• Added the ability to export an ASCII file with the parameters X, Y, Z, “Stat”, where stat is the numerical result of a statistical calculation. Every point in a point cloud will be exported with its associated statistical value.
• Added the ability to “force” grid stat results into vertex colors in cases where the resulting texture is too large for the user’s video card. Forcing the results into vertex colors consumes RAM, not video memory.

Orbit Mode (Keyboard)

Users can make a model continuously orbit about its center by simply typing “O” (i.e., Orbit) on the keyboard. This is the only control mode in which the model continues to “move” without direct user intervention. It may be helpful for briefings as well as AVI movie creation.

TIFF Export Text Template (Export Menu)

TIFF Exports now have an export template that enables users to add standard text (e.g., name, date, etc.) to exported TIFF’s. In addition, users can choose whether to include the legend and/or the XYZ axes (i.e., North Arrow) in TIFF Export. This is intended to improve non-georegistered exports to briefings and presentations that may not require georegistered products (e.g., Power Point).

Miscellaneous

• AVI movie creation from line now has choice of Above Ground Level (AGL) or Absolute (ABS) Altitude. Export…Movies Menu
• Added "Save Selection Area to ASCII". This will save the selection area polygon as a series of ASCII XYZ positions.

Bug Fixes/Optimizations

• 2D Mode: Addressed bug in which, in 2D mode, the "reset" button doesn't zoom in/out.
• 2D Mode: Addressed bug in which, in 2D mode, the left mouse button forces a snap back to the center.
• Area Stats: Fixed "width" and "height" in Area Stats
• Area Stats: Should now make better attempt at Area Stats from Screen Select (vs. Z Select).
• ASCII Import: Fixed bug where QT would misplace the first point in an ASCII XYZ file if that first point rounded off to (0,0,0).
• ASCII Import: Fixed crash bug importing monotonic grayscale XYZ ASCII as RGB in 64 bit.
• ASCII/LAS Import: "Color by Density" for QTTs should now be exclusive with Import Intensity/RGB when doing an ASCII or LAS import.
• ASCII/LAS Import: Decimation/Filtering/LAS Filtering windows should no longer affect each other.
• Clipping Plane: Addressed bug in which "Set Clipping Plane" "Use GL Planar Clip" did not take effect immediately.
• DTED: Fixed issues interpreting Null Data in DTC DTEDs.
• DTED: Improved algorithm for converting Geodetic DTEDs to UTM. The result is a minimization of the “corn field” artifacts.
• Grid Stats: Fixed bug in GridStats "auto set range" calculation.
• Grid Stats: Fixed some issues with Grid Stats on multiple models defined in multiple UTM zones.
• Import: Fixed issue with RGB Import windows.
• KML/Google Earth: Added option to "Save Markers" GUI to save to KML (without opening GE).
• KML/Google Earth: Fixed issue with display of QT KML Outlines in Google Earth Beta 5.0
• KML/Google Earth: Save Markers to KML" menu option will now request a filename.
• LAS Import: Addressed bug 612S-12: LAS Import fails when combining "Import as a Group" with "Separate by Classification".
• LAS: Fixed issue with point data record size when QT writes LAS 1.2 files.
• LAS: Updated LAS 1.2 support to include auto-scaling RGB values to 16-bit
• LAS: Fixed issue with point data record size when QT writes LAS 1.2 files.
• Legends: Fixed issue with extra textures being applied to Legend.
• Markers: Addressed bug in which editing a marker forced all models to be visible.
• Markers: Addressed issues of removing and refreshing markers in marker list.
• Markers: Fixed crash bug if you load and then resave a Marker.
• Markers: Fixed issue in QTM jumps rotation center after placing a marker.
• Markers: Point Interrogation tool should now honor marker color preference.
• Memory Management: Optimized memory management.
• Merge Models: Added check button to enable user to explicitly disable "Density Cutoff" when merging models.
• Model Information: Tweaked scale of histogram in Model Info screen.
• Model Subtraction: Fixed bug in subtracting models from compressed QTC models.
• Movies: Fixed Bug issues with clipping planes and rendering to AVI from Line.
• Movies: Fixed issue rendering AVIs larger than 1024x1024.
• Movies: Fixed issues rendering overlaid textures into movies.
• Outlines: "Generate Outline" should now do outlines for all loaded models.
• Outlines: Fixed some issues generating vector outlines of Cartesian/Geodetic models.
• Point Query: Fixed issues switching into/out of Point Query mode.
• Profile Sampling: Fixed crash bug related to performing Sampling in the Mensuration Profile
• Profiles: Fixed Bug in which QT won't display Intensity profiles for multiple models.
• Rendering: Tweaked QTC Models for faster rendering when zoomed in on large models.
• Selection Polygon: Fixed issue with Polygon selection areas "jumping around" by small amounts in models with very large X/Y positions.
• SRTM: Fixed so QT can read improperly tagged SRTM GeoTIFF DEMs.
• Textures: Fixed a number of issues with proper determination and application of Euler Angles (roll, pitch, heading) in both textures and camera settings.
• Textures: Fixed issue with importing non-TIFF Projective and Orthographic Textures.
• TIFF Export: Fixed rendering of axes and legends in Render to TIFF.
• TIFF: Fixed issue with byte encoding of non-TIFF texture images
• UTM South: Fixed some issues with Southern Hemisphere UTM Data

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.1.2:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.1.2
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.1.1 to address a few initial bugs in Version 6.1.0. Bug fixes/tweaks are as follows:

• Fixed issue with keeping grid stats window open when analyzing multiple models that are opened/closed.
• Added separate "Apply AGL" button to Marker GUIs.
• Fixed issues importing geodetic GEOTIFF/DEM as UTM.
• Added ability to convert geodetic GEOTIFF/DEM to UTM when importing as QTC.
• Fixed issue with Markers defined in different UTM Zone from models.
• Fixed issue in which Merge Models doesn't throw away low density QTC data in high density regions.
• Fixed default point density when importing Cartesian LAS to QTT.
• Fixed issue projecting textures - including GridStats - onto models defined in a different UTM Zone than the texture image.
• Fixed issue with saving Markers with no models loaded.

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.1.1
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.1.0 and Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.1.0. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Quick Terrain Modeler x64: 64-Bit Support
In addition to the standard Quick Terrain Modeler, Applied Imagery has introduced Quick Terrain Modeler x64 (QTMx64). While functionally identical, the 64-bit version is written and optimized for 64-bit Windows architectures. Instead of 32-bit memory limitations (i.e., 4GB maximum loaded, normally 2GB maximum allocated to a process), QTMx64 can utilize the 8, 16, or 32GB of memory that are typically loaded on 64-bit workstations. This means that the maximum model size goes up dramatically. As a rule of thumb, QTMx64 can load 50 million points uncompressed or 100 million points compressed for every GB of memory allocated (E.g., a machine with 8GB of memory can load 350 million uncompressed or 700 million compressed points if 7GB is allocated to QTMx64).

Applied Imagery will support both 32-bit and 64-bit versions of Quick Terrain Modeler. They will be separate products. The 32-bit version will run in 32-bit emulation on 64-bit systems, but the 64-bit version will not run on 32-bit systems.

Grid Statistics:
Grid statistics is a powerful, fast, flexible, and visual tool that provides Quick Terrain Modeler users a way to statistically sort through their LiDAR or 3D data in almost any way imaginable. The user simply loads data, whether point cloud or gridded surface model, sets a grid size, selects a variable to investigate, a statistic to calculate, a way to display it, and (optionally) an action to perform on it. (Analysis Menu)

• Variables Supported: Z (Height), Intensity, Number of Points, Point Density, Alpha

• Statistics calculated for each grid cell: Minimum, Maximum, Mean, Range, Deviation, Slope, Aspect

• Statistical Display Options: Continuous Color Band (Blue to Red), Earth Tones (13 segments – no ramp), Color Wheel, User customizable

• Actions: Export, cut, or decimate by statistical bands. Save GeoTIFFs of either statistical values or color values. Save/load statistical profiles.

Statistical Model Comparison
Based on the grid statistics tool, the statistical model comparison tool allows a grid-based comparison of two models. The user loads two models, designates a baseline model, sets a grid size, and for each grid cell, Quick Terrain Modeler will calculate either RMSE or Difference in Z, Intensity, or Alpha. This is an excellent way to evaluate the impact of different gridding algorithms, surveying techniques, decimation/thinning methodologies, or before/after comparisons. (Analysis…Grid Statistics Menu)

Significant Line of Sight Upgrades
Added significant capability to Line of Sight analysis. New capabilities enable Basic, Interactivity, and Cumulative analysis for much more flexible and intuitive results.

HLZ Tool
This simplified tool will assist in identifying candidate locations for Helicopter Landing Zones (HLZ’s) based on user specified parameters of slope and minimum radius. (Analysis…Add Vertex Colors to Model Menu)

Subtract Models
This tool allows users to subtract one entire model from another model on an elevation basis, leaving a “difference” model. (Edit Menu)

Markers

• Added marker “Quick Tags” that allow rapid tagging and counting of objects of interest. The user sets baseline parameters (color, marker name prefix, and count start point) and simply adds markers as normal. (Marker…Marker Options Menu)
• Added a marker keyboard shortcut. The user holds down “M”, then left clicks to add markers.
• Added the ability to filter markers by attribute. (Markers Menu)
• New Markers add their names as an attribute upon creation.
• Added ability to save/load marker sensors. (Marker Sensor interface)

Grid Lines
Dramatically enhanced grid lines tool to support DoD needs for 3D MGRS map visualization. The user can now draw MGRS grid lines across 3D models, customize the display, and export the grid lines as sampled 3D shapefiles. (Analysis Menu)

Decimation/Thinning Enhancements

• Added spatial decimation capability that decimates selection areas. This is a “manual” decimation based on user defined or imported (from shapefile) areas. Accessed by “CTRL-Right Click” on a selection area.
• Statistical Decimation based on user defined statistical results (e.g., areas of low Z deviation) discovered in the Grid Statistics Tool. Accessed by right clicking on the display color scale in Grid Statistics.

Editing Enhancements

• Screen Select now allows users to select in “screen space” rather than down the Z axis. Accessed from the button bar.
• Context Menus for selection areas. Accessed by “CTRL-Right Click” on a selection area. This gives the user access to cutting, cropping, decimating, exporting, and area statistics.
• Sphere Select has been eliminated.
• “Flatten Area” now only applies to visible models.

Visualization Enhancements

• Voxel-based point auto sizing adds a new choice for point cloud visualization. Using this method makes “near” points large and “far” points small, thus lending an additional amount of realism to the display of points. Users can choose this method or the “traditional” auto sizing menu in the new Cloud Point Settings interface. (Display…Settings…Cloud Point Settings Menu)
• Added the ability to rotate in 2D mode.

LAS Support

• Added support for LAS Version 1.2. Users can now import/export XYZ-RGB (i.e. colorized) point clouds and surface models as LAS 1.2. (Import/Export Menus)
• Added the ability to import colorized point clouds from LAS 1.2 and export as LAS 1.1 by converting colors to grayscale “intensity” values. (Import/Export Menus)

Analysis Enhancements

• Enhanced Slope Analysis tools (Analysis…Add Vertex Colors to Model Menu)
• Area Stats now only lists models which intersect selection area.
• Added Z Mean and Z Standard Deviation to Area Statistics.

Model Compression/Memory Management

Added the ability to remove/add normals to point cloud (QTC) models on the fly. Removing normals significantly reduces model size, but can degrade the appearance of a point cloud. (Edit Menu)

Bug Fixes/Optimizations

• Added support for UNIX newline and Lockheed Martin “C3D” format to FXYZ Import widget.
• Fixed marker name sorting issue in dialog boxes when more than 10 markers were loaded.
• Fixed shadow map and terrain mask bugs.
• Fixed volume calculation bug.
• Fixed inability to set UTM zone in unregistered LAS data.
• Fixed issue with group import of LAS files by classification
• Fixed intensity scale issue in intensity profile window.
• Fixed DXF export of consolidated contour lines.
• Fixed reversal of Cartesian XY coordinates in mensuration line window.
• Fixed issue with grid lines not working for Cartesian models.
• Fixed coordinate system override bug on batch LAS imports.
• Fixed Grid lines on Cartesian models
• Dropped support for QTV and QDT Models
• Tweaked GEOTIFF export to always write GDAL “no data” key.
• Addressed the "multiple legends" TIFF export issue.
• Added INI for AVI Setup window.
• Fixed issue with "Set Selection Area"
• If in 2D mode, "Look Here" will now be translated into "Go Here"
• Fixed issue with extra spaces in "ASCII delimiter" boxes.
• Fixed issue interpreting SRTM and DTED “Null Data” values.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.1.0:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.1.0
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.6 and Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.0.6. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Google Earth and KML Support

Version 6.0.6 adds additional  support for Google Earth and KML.  These upgrades enhance the KML capabilities originally introduced in Version 6.0.5.  The specific upgrades are:

• Google Earth synchronization.  This feature sends positional information in real time to Google Earth.  Users can now synchronize zooming, panning, rotation, and tilt with Google Earth.  This is found in the Control…Control Mode menu.  Simply check “Synchronize Google Earth”
• Import/Export markers to/from KML. (Marker Menu)
• Import/Export selection areas to/from KML. (Edit Menu)
• Import/Export mensuration lines to/from KML. (Analysis Menu)
• Export extents outline to KML.  This functions exports a single rectangle of area coverage to KML, even if multiple data files are loaded (Export menu)
• Drag and drop KML support.  This enables users to drag KML files from Windows menus and simply drop into the Quick Terrain Modeler environment.

LAS Support

• Added LAS “Quick Open” capability that opens LAS files without having to perform the “import” function.  When using LAS “Quick Open”, LAS files will be opened as point clouds (.qtc) based on the most recent user-set import values in the LAS import options window.
• LAS Quick Open can be accessed by:
• “Open” file from the “File” menu or button bar.
• “Add” file from the “File” menu or the button bar.
• Windows “drag and drop” of a file into the Quick Terrain Modeler.
• DOS command line functionality using “qtmodeler.exe filename.las”.  The command line functionality will enable passing LAS files to Quick Terrain Modeler from external applications.

Enhanced Slope Analysis
Version 6.0.6 significantly enhances the slope analysis and filtering tools.  New capabilities include:

• Customized slope banding.  Users can now set any number of slope bands and create customize palettes for coloration of the bands.
• Saving/loading of custom slope banding configuration and palette files.
• Slope area filtering is now integrated with slope banding in a single user interface.
• Added the ability to perform a continuous color coded slope model (from 0 to 90 degrees) over entire model.

 Model Compression/Memory Management

• Added the ability to compress QTT surface models.  QTT compression reduces QTT file size by approximately 20% on a model with no vertex colors.
• Added the ability to remove/add surface normals for QTT surface models.  Removing surface normals reduces QTT file size by approximately 45% on a model with no vertex colors.
• Added ability to select which model(s) to compress if multiple models are loaded.
• Added a Memory Management options interface that allows the user to set global preferences for compressing models and/or removing surface normals.  Both of these options can significantly impact the amount of memory used for a given model, thus impacting the maximum model size that can be loaded into memory. (File Menu)

Scatter Plot Profiles for Point Clouds

• Added the ability to visualize profiles of point clouds as “scatter plots” of points, rather than a single linear profile of the “surface” of the point cloud.  This feature is accessed from the normal height profile window.
• Users can visualize the scatter plot and/or the linear profile independently or together.
• Users can set the width of the scatter plot selection area.
  

North Arrow/3D Axes
Reworked the 3D Axes tool to make real world orientation more intuitive.  The axes now designate North, South, East, and West.  “Up” is also displayed.  (“Display” Menu…Options…Show Axes)

Bug Fixes/Optimizations

• Fixed issue of editing markers when more than 10 markers are loaded.
• Fixed issue of not exporting contours to shape file.
• Reversed order of Markers exported to shape files.
• Fixed point selection in Geodetic Models.
• Fixed issue with importing Intensity and Alpha to QTC.
• Fixed issue with losing contact with the Sentinel key (portable and floating licenses only).
• Increased the maximum number of vertices for selection polygons to 100,000.  (Note, this is the maximum number of vertices in selection the polygon, not the maximum number of vertices that can be selected in a QTT surface model.)
• Fixed issue with X position of contours being shifted (bug introduced after version 6.0.3).
• Fixed issue of area smoothing being applied to all loaded models.
• Fixed issue of failing to build QTT models from geodetic data if the user specifies a grid spacing less than one.
• Quick Terrain Modeler now assigns a file extension (.qtc or .qtt) as soon as a model is imported.
• Optimized ray tracing algorithms to enable more efficient point selection and rotation.
• Fixed issue with setting UTM Zone when loading Geodetic ESRI SHP Files and overlaying them on UTM Models.
• Fixed issue with profiling across models with differing UTM Zones.
• Fixed potential problem importing LAS over network.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.6:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.0.6
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.5 and Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.0.5. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Google Earth/KML Support :
Version 6.0.5 adds significant support for Google Earth.  This added support gives the Quick Terrain Modeler user a very fast and intuitive context capability.  At this time, these functions only support Vector and 2D products (e.g., model outlines, contours, 2D GeoTIFF's).  The specific upgrades are:

• Exporting model outlines and model information markers to Google Earth/KML:  With a simple button click, Quick Terrain Modeler will generate an outline of the loaded model, launch Google Earth, and export model information as a marker.  This function is accessed from the menu or the new "Export to Google Earth" button.
• KML Indexing Function:  This is identical to the Export model outline function, but it performs a batch process on an entire directory of QTT and QTC files at once.
• KML Options Setup:  Allows the user to define exactly what information should be exported to KML during the Export Model Outlines and KML Indexing functions
• Exporting Vector models to KML:  Vector models such as contour lines can be exported to KML.
• Exporting KML files along with 2D GeoTIFF Export:  When a user generates 2D GeoTIFF's, Quick Terrain Modeler will also generate an associated KML file to enable posting the image to Google Earth.

Coordinate Conversion/Go To Point:
The coordinate conversion tool is a new utility that provides the following set of functionality:

• Provides a simple way to convert a single point between five coordinate systems - UTM, Geodetic (decimal degrees), Geodetic (Degrees/minutes), Geodetic (degrees/minutes/seconds), and Military Grid Reference System (MGRS). 
• Allows the user to quickly zoom to the location specified in the interface or to pre-placed markers.
• Creates markers in specific locations.
• Converts existing marker positions between the five coordinate systems mentioned above.
• Determines elevation values for specific X-Y positions.
• This function is also accessed from the new "Go" button, right clicking on a point and typing "P", from the control menu, and from he marker menu.

Point to Point Viewing:
This new point to point viewing tool allows users to go to a specific marker, and direct the camera view to another marker.  It is a powerful tool for enhancing situational awareness and determining visibility between specific, known locations.  This can be found in the Control Menu, Point to Point Viewing.

Vector Line Width
Added the ability to set the thickness of vector lines.  Found in the Display...Settings...Set Vector Line Size menu.

Bug Fixes and Optimizations

• Added the ability to select different colors for slope analysis.
• Enhanced clarification on LAS import when coordinate system is either unknown or absent.
• Modified the clipping plane tool to clip directly on elevation, rather than the proxy value of height coloration.
• Fixed issue of creating large rectangles in areas of no data.
• Fixed issue importing large (over 1024 characters per line) CSV files as markers.
• Fixed issue of checkmarks not showing up in the File...Options menu.
• Fixed issue importing ASCII data in geodetic coordinates to QTC point clouds.
• Fixed bug related to large numbers of small files.
• Fixed bug related to importing shape files as vector into UTM models.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.5:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.0.5
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.4 and Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.0.4. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Compressed Point Clouds:
Quick Terrain Modeler version 6.0.4 introduces compressed point clouds (.qtc). This significant enhancement will cut in half the amount of memory used by point clouds, essentially doubling the maximum point cloud size. There may be a slight tradeoff in precision, depending on the geographic extents of the model. Users can either import into the compressed format directly, or convert existing models to the compressed format.

Increased LAS Support:

• LAS Export: Quick Terrain Modeler now supports exporting to LAS version 1.1.
  
• LAS Pre-inspection: Filtering LAS files by classification upon import is now much more efficient.
  
• LAS Coordinate Assignment: Users can now assign a coordinate system/UTM Zone to LAS files that originally had no coordinate system.
  
• LAS Intensity Enhancement: Users can choose whether or not to scale intensity upon LAS import.

Marker Upgrades:

• Marker Information: Users can now import markers from a Comma Separated Variable (CSV) text file and attach an unlimited amount of information to each marker upon import. Users can then view this information in the context of point clouds and terrain models. With this enhancement, markers will not only call out a place in a terrain, but will deliver a significant amount of useful information to the user about objects in the terrain.
  
• Marker Import from Shapefile: Users can now import markers from a Point ZM shapefile.
  
• Real Time Coordinate Conversion: If a model is originally in UTM or geodetic coordinates, users can specify one of five coordinate systems (Geodetic in 3 formats, UTM, MGRS) to be displayed in the status bar as the cursor is moved through the model.

Mensuration/Profile Enhancements:

• Mensuration Line Enhancements: Users now have the option to display the length of the mensuration line as it is being placed. There are three options – 2D distance, 3D distance, and elevation change – that are available. In addition, the distance can be measured from the origin point or from the last vertex placed.
  
• Profile Zooming: Users can now zoom to a specific area in the terrain profile window by dragging a selection box. This will facilitate close inspection of sub areas of the terrain profile.
  
• " ALT”: Press “ALT” key to suspend mouse controls while placing a mensuration line. This will permit users to reposition the display and facilitate placement of mensuration lines that were required to go beyond the extents of the current display.

Terrain Mask (USA Version Only):
Users can quickly simulate terrain visibility to an airborne sensor. Simply input graze angle and azimuth, and Quick Terrain Modeler will indicate which areas have visibility and which do not. There as also an “Obscuration Percentage” calculation that can be performed on the entire model or on a specific selection area.

Bug Fixes/Optimizations:

• All loaded markers are now saved with a tile set.
• Holding “CTRL” down while editing the visible model will now edit hidden models. This works on cut and crop only.
• Markers exported to shapefile now populate “Name” and “Altitude” attributes in the .dbf file.
• Fixed odd rendering issue for compressed DTED’s.
• Fixed issue saving multiple files from multiple classification in LAS batch import mode.
• Fixed issue with non-visible marker disappearing during vector LOS analysis.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.4:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.0.4
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Applied Imagery has released Quick Terrain Modeler VErsion 6.0.3 and Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.0.3. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Marker Upgrades:

• Marker ID: In many cases, Quick Terrain Modeler users may have identical marker names, so Applied Imagery has added the ability to see a unique Marker ID associated with each marker. This will allow users to distinguish between individual markers during the edit, show/hide, and remove marker operations. Marker ID’s will now be visible in the Edit Marker, Remove Marker, Show/Hide Marker, and (optionally) as part of the marker name in the main display window.
  
• Show/Hide Markers: Users can now select a subset of markers to be visible without removing any markers.
  
• Importing Markers: During Marker ASCII import, users can now select any column as the marker name. In addition, the text preview pane has been expanded to support ASCII file formats that have large amounts of metadata (header rows) at the top of the page.
  
• Autoscale Markers: Users can choose to autoscale the marker size. If this option is chosen, markers will get bigger when zoomed out and smaller when zoomed in, thus eliminating “giant” markers when zoomed in and “microscopic” markers when zoomed out.
  
• Marker “Point and Click”: Version 6.0.3 enhances the ability to “point and click” on markers. In order to pull up the Edit Marker window for a specific marker, click the marker button, then right click on the desired marker. In order to move a marker, click the marker button, left click on a marker, and drag it to a new location.
  

Editing:
Cut and Crop now only apply to the visible model. In past versions, cutting and cropping would apply to all models, whether they were visible or not. To apply an editing function to a single model, simply show that model, hide all others (show/hide model window), perform the edit function, and continue with analysis.

Shapefile Overlay:
When importing 2D shapefiles, Quick Terrain Modeler assigns elevation values to the vertices of 2D shapefile polylines and polygons upon import. The result is that, in some cases, the vector lines will “pierce” the surface and become difficult to visualize. Version 6.0.3 adds the ability to permanently raise or lower imported 2D shapefiles. This will give users the ability to see shapefiles and GIS layers much better, particularly in highly varied terrain.

Density Calculation:
Point density is a basic statistic that users need to know. In past versions, users could get the average point spacing (i.e., “posting”) of a point cloud by looking at the “Scale” number in the Model Statistics and Area Statistics windows. Version 6.0.3 adds a “Density” calculation that gives the same result (point density), but describes it differently. Density is measured in points per square unit. For example, a Density value of 1.4 means that, on average, there are 1.4 points in a square meter (assuming the model is measured in meters. This calculation is done for an entire model in the “Model Statistics” window and for a specific area in the “Area Statistics” window.

“ALT” Hot Key:
When selecting specific areas with the selection area or selection polygon tools, users may need to zoom out, pan, tilt, or rotate to be able to see areas just outside the current view. Users can now hold down the “ALT” key to manipulate models while in the process of creating a selection area. Simply release the “ALT” key and resume placing vertices in the selection polygon or stretching the selection rectangle. This improvement eliminates the need to close a partial polygon, zoom out, and start again.

New DEM Format Support:
• Support for USGS DEM format: Users can now import USGS DEMs. Please note to use the “Import Model” rather than the “Open Model” function.
• Support for InterMap DEM formats: Version 6.0.3 will open InterMap’s 16-bit and 32-bit GeoTIFF DEM formats. In addition, users will have the choice to convert to UTM upon opening the models.

Bug Fixes/Optimizations:

• Fixed intensity display on very old QTT and QTC models.
• Added filter to ignore errant data during Point ZM import.
• Changed LAS import function to ignore unit conversion upon importing to Cartesian coordinates.
• Fixed calculation of “Scale” value in “Area Statistics” window.
• Fixed issues merging DEM’s with highly varied grid spacing.
• Enabled rotation/tilt of model after selection polygon is created.
• Created separate .ini files for all import interfaces. This will ensure that QT remembers all user settings uniquely for each type of import.
• Transposed X and Y values in “Edit Marker” window (Cartesian only).
• Added .txt and .xyzi as standard extensions for ASCII XYZ import.
• Added .txt as the standard ASCII Z-Grid import and export file extensions.
• Sensor model (Line of Sight) terminology has been modified to better reflect the perspective (i.e., from the sensor) from which the angles and distances are measured.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.3:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.0.3
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Windows Vista: With any new operating system, there are potential driver compatibility issues (e.g., graphics driver, etc.). While Vista/OpenGL driver compatibility issues have been resolved, there have also been issues with Vista and the Sentinel driver. With the release of Version 6.0.2, Applied Imagery has included the new Sentinel Driver, 7.4.0, which is Vista compliant. At this time, Applied Imagery does not certify the functionality of Quick Terrain Modeler on Vista OS.

2008/2009 Update: There are currently no known compatibility issues with Windows Vista and Vista X64. All the above issues are resolved.

If you are still experiencing compatibility problems with Vista and any other driver related to Applied Imagery's software, please contact support@appliedimagery.com.

Applied Imagery has released a new version of Quick Terrain Modeler and Quick Terrain Reader. Quick Terrain Modeler enhancements and bug fixes are as follows:

Line of Sight Enhancements (US Version Only):

• Vector Line of Sight: Users can determine whether Line Of Sight (LOS) exists between a traveler moving down a path and observers (markers) in the terrain. Results are displayed in real time as red or green vectors and will show both air and ground distances to the target.
• Sensor Model Line of Sight: Allows users to set sensor parameters (e.g., surveillance camera, microwave communication antenna, airborne sensor, etc.) to determine coverage areas in a terrain.
• Ability to Set Markers/Observers with a height Above Ground Level (AGL): Users can import markers/observers into a terrain and specify relative rather than absolute heights.
• Flexible Line of Sight Analysis Export Choices: Many more choices to adapt to downstream software applications that have specific import requirements.

Export Entire Point Clouds to PointZM Shapefile: Adds ability to export entire point clouds to PointZM shapefile format, thus enabling true 3D vector import of ungridded data into other applications (e.g., ESRI)

Expanded Search Radius and Speed for Quality Assurance and Ground Truthing Tools: Point Query Utility now will “look” much farther from ground truth points to find points in a QTC point cloud. Thus, in areas of sparse data, QT will be more effective in polling the point clouds, returning model elevation values, and creating QA reports that comply with FEMA specifications.

Spherical Selection/Editing Tool: Adds the ability to select groups of points with a resizable sphere selection tool.

Point Cloud Color Editing: Users can recolor points in a QTC point cloud. Requires that the point cloud already have RGB values for each point.

Flood Water Level Appears in Terrain Profiles: Allows users to see flood levels relative to specific profiles.

Remove Individual Anchors: Added the ability to remove individual anchor pairs in scan alignment module.

Georegistration Enhancement: Added the ability to use model origins as the basis for georegistration.

UTM Zone Handling: Now handles UTM Zone boundaries much better. QT will now attempt to avoid leaving the user-specified UTM zone unless multiple models in multiple zones are loaded.

Bug Fixes:

• Fixed bug that caused crash when looking at non 1m gridded data on edge.
• Fixed automatic scan alignment (ILRIS) bugs.
• Decoupled Az/El and time of day setting on lighting GUI.
• No longer resets lighting on model load.
• Fixed roundoff error in QTC draw routine (dropping points along a linear edge).
• Fixed conversion of geodetic QTC to QTT bug.
• Fixed issue on 90 degree azimuth shadow mapping results.
• Fixed bug interpreting certain GeoKey values, particularly noted on LAS import.

Quick Terrain Reader Version 6.0.2 Upgrades: Eliminated maximum model number limitation. Users can now view any number of models simultaneously (subject to normal memory constraints).

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.2:

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• Quick Terrain Reader 6.0.2
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Version 6.0.0 contained a bug related to models with intensity. Users could build and save models with intensity, but, upon reloading, the intensity was entirely black. THe error was due to a flag being incorrectly set when saving. This bug has been corrected and Version 6.0.1 is available. We regret any inconvenience this has caused our users.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.1:

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Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler and renamed it Quick Terrain Modeler. The new version adds the following features:

Point Query Utility (Quality Assurance Tools): The new point query utility makes ground truth reporting easy. The revised tool imports points from an ASCII file, compares them to the surface (or TIN created from a point cloud) and delivers a customized ASCII report to the user. The customized report can contain the original point ID, the original XYZ of the ground truth points, as well as the Z values of the model, the delta Z at each point, and/or classification and other values that were in the original data file. Users can also calculate RMSE for the entire data set.

Georegistration: Version 6 adds a powerful georegistration tool that attaches pre-saved georeference points to specific points/vertices of a model. This interactive process graphically places the georeference points in 3D, then computes X, Y, Z, pitch, roll, and heading offsets. If the RMS error is within tolerances, all model points will be translated to the new coordinate system. This tool will work on multiple models simultaneously.

ASCII Vector Import: This new tool, similar to existing tools to import vectors from Shapefiles, extends vector support to ASCII vectors. Users can import vectors in the format of “X, Y, Z, VectorID”, such as the Landmark ASCII fault file format and other vector formats that are stored in this manner.

Find Highest Point: For applications such as vertical object detection, Quick Terrain Modeler can now find the highest point in a given selection area. Simply draw a selection polygon around an area, and choose “Find Highest Point In Area” from the analysis menu. Quick Terrain Modeler will find the highest point, open the point interrogation window, and allow users to create a marker at that precise point. Markers can be saved as markers (.mrk format) or exported to ASCII and/or shape files.

Rescale Heights Button: Users can now access the “Set Height Scale” functionality by clicking a button in the tool bar. Since many users frequently access height exaggeration (particularly in a Quality Assurance/Quality Control environment), the new button will make mundane tasks easier and quicker. Furthermore, the height scale, if it is set to anything other than “1”, will appear in the updated status bar at the bottom of the screen.

Reconfigured Dynamic Status Bar: Quick Terrain Modeler now has a dynamic status bar at the bottom of the screen. New information is now available such as height exaggeration and model name. If multiple models are loaded, the status bar will display the model name of the model directly under the cursor. This makes navigating and zooming in to multiple tiles/models much easier and more intuitive.

Match Model Altitudes: The altitude matching tool uses an improved matching algorithm, has added choices in sampling level for faster calculation, and offers a choice in setting the reference model. In addition, the match altitude tool can now match point clouds (QTC’s).

Faster ASCII Importing: Version 6 ASCII importing is much faster.

Support for DTED DTC format: Version 6 completes support for the DTED format known as DTC. DTC’s are standard DTED models with sub-integer resolution in elevation. Quick Terrain Modeler automatically recognizes this format and can convert to UTM upon loading.

Point Interrogation – Create Markers: Quick Terrain Modeler’s point interrogation tool lets users query any point/vertex in a model, then a open a window which displays the X, Y, Z, and color values of that point. Version 6 adds the ability to create a marker at that point

Binary Import: The binary import window now has an ASCII header preview window to allow users to inspect the data in the binary header (assuming this data is ASCII) prior to import. Version 6 also adds support for binary color (RGB), and Intensity/RGB scaling tools.

Binary Export Choices: Users can now choose between Binary XYZI and Binary XYZRGB upon export.

Quick Terrain Modeler Scan Alignment Upgrades:

Scanner Origin Tracking: Create and export the ILRIS origin point (0,0,0) for use later during the georegistration process. A new Quick Terrain Modeler display option setting will highlight the origin points when the scans are exported to QTC Point Clouds.

Georegistration: After performing scan alignment and exporting to QTC point clouds, users can import georeference points from an ASCII File and manually correlate them to points in the scans. Quick Terrain Modeler will transform the point clouds from project/plant coordinates to real world coordinates.

Stationary Scan Selection: Select a scan by name to hold stationary during the export process. Therefore, all aligned scans will be transformed to the scan coordinates of the stationary scan.

Merge Sessions: This feature links two or more sets of pre-aligned scans and only requires the user to manually align the overlap of these sessions. Users can align individual scans (e.g., automatic scan alignment from the ILRIS 36D Pan/Tilt Base), save as a session, then merge and import multiple sessions.

Auto Alignment for Multiple Regions of Interest: Users can now auto-align scans from multiple regions of interest, as long as they overlap and are contained in the same IXF file.

Resizable Preview Windows: Users can make preview windows much larger for easier and more precise anchor placement.

Quick Terrain Reader Upgrades:

More Models: Quick Terrain Reader Version 6 opens 2 models at the same time (Version 5.1.5 limited the total number of models to 1). This upgrade would enable the distribution of a point cloud and a surface model of the same region.

More Markers: Quick Terrain Reader Version 6 Creates and/or imports an unlimited number of markers (Version 5.1.5 limited the total number of markers to 4). Users can now create models with dozens of markers (points of interest, targets, etc.) and share them with downstream users for free.

- Various bug fixes and optimizations.

Download and install the appropriate Quick Terrain Modeler Version 6.0.0:

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Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler. The new version:

-- Adds a "Convert Models" function in the Edit menu that converts models (e.g., QTT from QTC) without having to reload and reimport data. This function also allows users to convert only a portion of the loaded model by cropping to a polygon selection.

- Exports QTC point clouds to ESRI point shape files.

- Exports markers to ESRI point shape files and to ASCII text files.

- Adds a button for Show/Hide Models. This makes isolating and comparing multiple models easier.

- Crops a data set to the X-Y extents of an external shape file upon import. This is a way to identify specific areas in GIS, then import only the necessary points from a large data set.

- Adds a feature to limit the distance on Line of Sight (e.g., perform line of sight out to 200 meters) as well as perform Line of Sight on multiple markers at once. (USA Version Only)

- Supports enhanced dynamic range DTEDs. These DTEDs are based on the MIL-PRF-89020A standard and support sub-integer level of detail for elevation values. Users will simply load these DTED's just as DTED's are normally loaded - no manual process is necessary.

- Adds a Sentinel restart button on all Floating and Portable licenses. This enables users to restart the Sentinel drivers in the event QT Modeler loses contact with the Sentinel key.

- Added GeoTIFF export option to comply with GDAL standard of the "No Data" value in the exported GeoTIFF DEM header.

- Various bug fixes and optimizations.

Download and install the appropriate QT Modeler Version 5.1.5:

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Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler. The new version:
- Adds an area calculation in the flood simulation tool. THis enables users to establish the area of flooded terrain as well as the volume of the flood water. - Fixes a header byte offset issue during binary data import.
- Recognizes the .dem extension for model loading.
- Eliminates "missing" Marker 1 issue found on some computers.
- Fixes issues importing colors during marker import from ASCII file.
- Allows users to specify non-default file extensions when saving or exporting multiple files.

Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler. The new version:
- Adds a new elevation coloration tool - the ability to autoscale elevation coloration on an individual tile basis. This is very helpful in QA/QC applications where there are numerous tiles loaded at the same time and the elevation range for all tiles combined is large. This feature will help users spot anomalies on individual tiles, even if dozens of tiles are loaded.
- Increased the size of Show/Hide Model, Remove Model, Save Models, and Model Statistics window to show model name and file extensions (e.g., .qtt, .qtc).
- Reset View now only zooms to the extent of visible models, not all models.
- Miscellaneous bug fixes and optimizations.

Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler. The new version:
- Adds LAS filtering on import by classification.
- Enhances the point query utility to comply with FEMA guidelines for establishing RMSE values.
- Enhances profiling of point cloud models
- Adds automatic scan alignment for ILRIS 36D scans - no anchors necessary.
- Adds support for Optech ILRIS XYZ format during scan alignment process.
- Allows users to define a reference scan during scan alignment process.
- Optimizes ICP algorithm for scans with minimal overlap.
- Fixes LAS import bug for geodetic coordinates.
- Exports -9999 consistently as the nodata value for GeoTIFF DEM export.

Applied Imagery has released a new version the QT Modeler. The new version:
- Fixes geodetic point query issues.
- Fixes geodetic profile export problems.
- Added new triangulation filtering function for ASCII import.
- Fixed vertical artifacts around the perimeter of some surface models.
- Fixed density cutoff = 0 bug during model merge.
- Added area calculation to the area statistics tool.

Download "What's New for Version 5.0?"
Download the new QT Modeler 5.0 Fact Sheet.
Download and install QT Modeler Version 5.0.0. Portable and floating license (i.e., hardware dongle) customers should download from the links above. Node lock (i.e., software keyed) customers should download from our Download Page.