Using OPF from PIX4Dcatch to PIX4Dmatic
The Open Photogrammetry Format (OPF) streamlines the workflow between PIX4Dcatch and PIX4Dmatic by enabling faster, more efficient access to project data with fewer manual steps. This article describes how to export OPF from PIX4Dcatch and import into PIX4Dmatic.
IN THIS ARTICLE
How to use OPF file
Export OPF from PIX4Dcatch
Import OPF to PIX4Dmatic
The Open Photogrammetry Format (OPF) is a standardized file format developed to simplify the transfer of photogrammetry data between software applications. When a project is created in PIX4Dcatch, a project.opf file is automatically generated and saved in the root directory of the project folder.
Using OPF significantly improves the workflow between PIX4Dcatch and PIX4Dmatic by reducing the number of manual steps required to transfer data. With this streamlined process, users can access and visualize project information more quickly and efficiently, enhancing productivity and minimizing the risk of error.
The OPF file currently supports the transfer of the following data:
- Ground Control Points (GCPs)
- Autotags
- Images
Important: This workflow requires PIX4Dcatch version 2.15.0 or later and PIX4Dmatic version 1.75.0 or later. Projects created or opened with earlier versions will not support OPF functionality.
How to use the OPF file
After completing a capture in PIX4Dcatch, export the project folder, which includes the OPF file, to your workstation for further use in PIX4Dmatic.
Note: Projects with or without Autotags tie points, Autotags GCPs, or Manual GCPs can be exported as OPF.
Export OPF from PIX4Dcatch
To export the project folder, follow these steps:
- Open the Projects tab and select a project.
- Tap the Export
icon and select Export All Data - PIX4Dmatic (OPF)
.
3. Choose the export method (e.g, email, cloud storage, phone storage).
4. A .zip file will be generated containing the project folder.
Import OPF to PIX4Dmatic
The .zip file must be transfered from the mobile deivce to the workstation and unzipped. After unzipping the file, there are three ways to open and use the OPF file in PIX4Dmatic:
Option 1: Open from the PIX4Dcatch project folder
- Locate the PIX4Dcatch project folder on your workstation.
- Double-click on the project.opf
file.
- PIX4Dmatic will launch automatically and display the project name and file path, which can be edited if necessary.
- Click Start.
- PIX4Dmatic opens with the OPF content loaded.
- The Tie Points tab will display the imported GCPs and Manual Tie Points (MTPs).
7. Select the processing template specific to PIX4Dcatch.
Note: As of PIX4Dmatic version 1.79.0, the correct template is selected automatically.
Option 2: Open from within PIX4Dmatic.
- Launch PIX4Dmatic.
- Go to File > Open.
- Select the project.opf
file from the desired project folder.
- The project folder name and path will be displayed and can be edited if necessary.
- Click Start.
- The OPF content will appear in both the Content tab and Tie Points tab.
Option 3: Drag and Drop
- Launch PIX4Dmatic.
- Open the folder where the PIX4Dcatch projects are saved.
- Drag and drop the selected project.opf
onto the PIX4Dmatic homescreen.
- Confirm the project name, path, and coordinate reference system (CRS).
- Click Start.
- The OPF content will automatically appear in both the Content tab and Tie Points tab.