Using panoramic cameras to collect spatial data

This guide introduces how to collect environmental data required by Mega using panoramic cameras (currently supporting GoPro Max/Max2) at the collection site. The quality of collected data directly affects the usability of the data and Mega's positioning performance. Please carefully read this document before starting collection.

Preparations

• Read the Mega user guide.
• Complete route planning following collection route planning.
• Configure the panoramic camera parameters by referring to GoPro Max configuration or GoPro Max2 configuration.
• Verify all requirements using the collection checklist.

Note

Mega currently only supports GoPro Max/Max2 cameras for panoramic data collection. Other brands are not yet supported.

Starting collection

Important

Before starting, reconfirm that the panoramic camera settings comply with the checklist and the planned collection route.

• Ensure environmental conditions:

  • Avoid crowds during collection.
  • Avoid intense lighting (e.g., midday sun).
  • Avoid rainy, snowy, or foggy weather.

• Power on and prepare:

  • Remove lens covers and power on the GoPro Max/Max2.
  • Securely mount the camera on a selfie stick with the screen facing you.
  • Ensure prominent features (e.g., buildings, statues) exist within 3 meters of the starting point. Avoid large open squares.
  • For outdoor routes, power on the camera in an open area and wait >2 minutes in standby mode before moving to the starting point.

• Begin collection:

  • Hold the selfie stick vertically ~20 cm above your head.
  • Press the record button or use GoPro Quik app to start recording.
  • At the starting point, horizontally move >2 meters facing textured surfaces (e.g., walls).

During collection

• Firmly grip the selfie stick to minimize camera shake.
• Walk at ≤1 m/s. Avoid rapid motion. Do not run, cycle, or collect from vehicles.
• Reduce turning speed at corners/U-turns. Avoid sudden rotations.
• Watch for obstacles. Indoors, mind ceiling height to prevent collisions.

Important

Panoramic data collection differs from regular videography. Follow specifications strictly. Non-compliant collection may render data unusable, requiring re-collection.

Ending collection

• Press the recording button or use GoPro Quik app to stop recording. Wait for storage completion.
• Verify recorded duration matches actual collection time.

Avoiding invalid data

Non-compliant collection causes unusable data. Common issues below require re-collection:

• ❌ Forgetting to remove lens covers (including transparent ones).
• ❌ Abnormal termination (e.g., low battery, full storage, overheating shutdown).
• ❌ Camera collisions (e.g., doorframes, beams).
• ❌ Camera detachment from selfie stick.
• ❌ Collection via elevators, cable cars, bicycles, moving boats, or while holding an umbrella.
• ❌ Wiping the lens during collection.
• ❌ Tilting the selfie stick against your body.

Common issues

• Detailed collection for key objects/areas
  For high-fidelity models of large sculptures/objects, perform multiple circular captures from far to near.

• Road construction/blockage
  Recommended: Re-plan the route and re-collect. Alternatively, backtrack and continue via other paths.

• Ticket gates/one-way exits disrupting continuity
  Recommended: Re-plan routes to separate internal/external areas.

Next steps

After completing panoramic data collection:

• Export data following the panoramic camera data export guide.

You may also need:

• Guidance for large-scale collection: large-space acquisition guide.
• On-site EIF data collection for testing: EIF debugging data collection.