Table of Contents

Collecting spatial data using panoramic cameras

this guide aims to introduce how to use panoramic cameras (currently supporting gopro max) to collect environmental data required by mega at collection sites. the quality of collected data directly affects the usability of data and mega's positioning performance. please read carefully the content of this document before collection.

Preparations

Note

currently, mega panoramic camera collection only supports gopro max cameras. gopro max 2 or other brands of panoramic cameras are not yet supported.

Starting collection

Important

before starting collection, ensure you have checked the panoramic camera settings against the checklist content and reconfirmed the planned collection route.

  • confirm environment suitability

    • avoid collecting when surroundings are crowded.
    • avoid collecting under intense lighting conditions (e.g., sunny noon).
    • avoid collecting during rain, snow, or heavy fog.

  • power on and prepare

    • remove lens covers and power on the gopro max camera.
    • securely mount the camera on a selfie stick with the screen side facing you.
    • ensure buildings, statues, or other close-range objects exist within 3 meters of the starting point. avoid starting in large open squares.
    • if the route includes outdoor areas, power on the camera in an open outdoor space and let it idle for over 2 minutes before proceeding to the starting point.

  • begin collection

    • hold the selfie stick 20 cm above your head, keeping it vertical. avoid holding too high or too low.
    • press the recording button or use the gopro quik app to start recording.
    • at the starting location, move horizontally for more than 2 meters in front of buildings, walls, or other texture-rich objects.

During collection

  • firmly hold the selfie stick throughout collection, maintaining camera stability.
  • walk at a speed not exceeding 1 m/s. avoid rapid movements. do not run, cycle, or collect from vehicles.
  • reduce turning speed when making turns or u-turns to avoid rapid rotation.
  • avoid obstacles. indoors, be mindful of ceiling height to prevent collisions or lens contact.
Important

panoramic data collection differs from regular video recording. follow specifications strictly; otherwise, collected data may be unusable, requiring recollections even if the video is complete.

Ending collection

  • after collection, stop recording by pressing the shutter button or using the gopro quik app. wait for storage completion.
  • verify the recorded video duration matches the actual collection time.

Avoiding invalid collection data

non-standard collection may cause data invalidity (i.e., collected data unusable). common causes include but are not limited to the following. avoid these issues, and recollect if encountered.

  • ❌ forgetting to remove lens covers, including transparent covers.
  • ❌ abnormal recording stoppages (e.g., battery depletion, full storage card, overheating auto-shutdown).
  • ❌ camera collisions during collection (e.g., hitting door frames, beams).
  • ❌ camera falling or slipping off the selfie stick during collection.
  • ❌ collecting while riding elevators, cable cars, bicycles, moving boats, or holding umbrellas.
  • ❌ wiping lenses during collection.
  • ❌ failing to keep the selfie stick vertical, leaning it against the body.

Frequently asked questions

  • detailed collection of key objects/areas for large sculptures or objects requiring high-precision models, circle them multiple times while approaching gradually.

  • encountering road construction/blockages recommended solution: re-plan the route and recollect. exceptionally, turn back at blocked points before continuing other routes.

  • routes with ticketing gates or one-way exits preventing continuous collection recommended solution: re-plan the route and recollect, separating indoor and outdoor sections.

Next steps

after completing panoramic data collection,

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