Overview
DroneDeploy allows you to upload preprocessed GeoTIFFs from third-party tools to perform elevation analysis and volumetric measurements. This feature is ideal for multi-vendor projects where you receive deliverables from contractors using software such as Pix4D, Metashape, or Propeller.
Availability
This feature is available for Aerial Pro subscriptions.
Measurements and elevation tools are enabled only when both an Ortho and a DEM are provided.
Data Requirements
To ensure successful processing, your files must meet the following criteria:
File Format: Both files must be GeoTIFFs with an embedded Coordinate Reference System (CRS/EPSG).
Area Overlap: Files must cover the same area and have a compatible CRS.
Ortho GeoTIFF (Required): Must contain 3-4 bands (RGB/RGBA).
DEM GeoTIFF (Optional): Enables Volumetrics and Cut/Fill Analysis. A single band Float32 file is recommended.
Note: This workflow does not support OBJ, MTL, LAS, LAZ, tile folders or sidecar-only rasters.
How to Upload Preprocessed Rasters
Navigate to the Smart Upload tab on the web application.
Select your Ortho GeoTIFF and your DEM GeoTIFF from your local directory.
Adjust the date in the uploader to match the survey date of the map.
Click Submit and wait for the files to process.
Key Features and Nuances
Elevation Tools: If you upload an Ortho and a DEM, DroneDeploy enables the Volume tool, Cut/Fill Analysis, and elevation layers.
Visual Only: If you upload only an Ortho GeoTIFF, the map is for visual reference only; volumetric and elevation tools remain disabled.
Processing Limitations: This workflow is an alternative to photo-based processing. It does not create 3D models, point clouds or meshes within DroneDeploy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does DroneDeploy create a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) from these uploads?
A: No. DroneDeploy uses the provided Digital Elevation Model (DEM) as is. If you require a DTM for your analysis, you must create it in your primary survey software and export it as a DEM GeoTIFF before uploading.
Q: Can I upload a DEM without an Ortho?
A: The supported workflow requires an Ortho GeoTIFF. You should always include an Ortho with your DEM upload.
Q: Is this the same as a design surface upload?
A: No. Design surfaces allow you to view DEMs, but this specific flow enables active measurements like Volumes and Cut/Fill Analysis on your preprocessed rasters.
V2.2