Gaussian Splatting at Pix4D: what you need to know
Gaussian Splatting is making waves in the world of 3D mapping and visualization, promising a significant leap forward in the quality of point clouds and mesh outputs. As one of the latest features available in PIX4Dcloud for users capturing with PIX4Dcatch, it opens up new possibilities for professionals across various industries. Here is everything you need to know about this game-changing feature, its capabilities, and the considerations to keep in mind as it evolves.
What is Gaussian Splatting?
Gaussian Splatting is an advanced processing technique that dramatically enhances the visual quality of point clouds and meshes. By refining how data is densified and visualized, it generates outputs that are smoother, more detailed, and visually impactful. This improvement makes it an excellent tool for industries where stunning visuals and accurate representations are critical, such as utilities, real estate, and infrastructure planning.
IMAGE OF WITH AND WITHOUT GS
How it works
The Gaussian Splatting feature integrates seamlessly into the Pix4D ecosystem, specifically for users capturing data with PIX4Dcatch and processing it through PIX4Dcloud. Once activated, this feature uses 5 cloud credits per project, offering users the ability to transform their datasets into exceptionally realistic 3D models.
Currently, Gaussian Splatting is supported on the latest iOS devices, leveraging the device’s LiDAR for reliable data collection. PIX4Dcatch ensures accurate data capture even for large-scale projects, with support for datasets ranging from 250 to 2,000 images—both with and without RTK (Real-Time Kinematic) technology.
Key benefits
- Unmatched visual quality: Gaussian Splatting takes point cloud visualization to the next level, providing smoother surfaces, fewer artifacts, and exceptional detail. These enhancements are particularly valuable for professionals who rely on visually compelling outputs to communicate complex projects
- Seamless workflow: the feature integrates effortlessly into the PIX4D ecosystem. Users can capture data with PIX4Dcatch, process it in PIX4Dcloud, and enjoy the improved outputs without additional complexity
- Accuracy maintained: as with all PIX4D solutions, Gaussian Splatting upholds the brand’s commitment to accuracy. Pix4D Autotags remain supported, ensuring precise results for users working on projects that demand technical excellence
- Scalable processing: Gaussian Splatting has been tested across projects of varying sizes, from 250 to 2,000 images. Processing times and costs scale accordingly, offering flexibility for projects of all complexities. A detailed report on processing times and cost estimates is available for those seeking a deeper understanding of performance
- Augmented reality integration: while augmented reality in PIX4Dcatch is still evolving and occasionally experiences limitations, the quality of outputs with and without the AR feature remains remarkable, ensuring users always get reliable and impactful results
IMAGE OF POINT CLOUD VIEW WITH AUTOTAGS
Who will be using this new feature?
Gaussian Splatting is designed for professionals across diverse industries who demand both precision and high-quality visualization. For real estate, it enables detailed property mapping and redevelopment planning, offering a clear understanding of layouts and structures. In forensics, it provides accurate and visually compelling reconstructions of crime or accident scenes, supporting investigations and courtroom presentations. Utility planners can leverage Gaussian Splatting to visualize complex infrastructure with clarity, aiding in maintenance, planning, and decision-making processes.
Pix4D’s unwavering commitment to accuracy ensures that all outputs maintain precise data integrity while delivering enhanced visual clarity. This combination of technical excellence and impactful visualization makes Gaussian Splatting a transformative tool, adaptable to a variety of use cases where clarity and detail are paramount.
Picture of Martin Rehak Datasets (Car + Estatue + Trench) in a horizontal composition.
Gaussian Splatting is an exciting development within the Pix4D ecosystem, offering enhanced visualization quality and maintaining the brand’s hallmark accuracy. While the feature is still experimental, its potential is clear: it enables users to achieve professional-grade results with unmatched visual fidelity, all while leveraging the simplicity of capturing data with a smartphone. For those ready to explore the cutting edge of 3D mapping, Gaussian Splatting is a feature worth trying.
*Stay tuned for updates as Gaussian Splatting continues to evolve, bringing even more possibilities to PIX4Dcatch and PIX4Dcloud users. *
