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Use the model

You can use this model in the Detect Objects Using Deep Learning available in the ArcGIS Image Analyst toolbox in ArcGIS Pro.

  1. Download the model and add the imagery layer in ArcGIS Pro.
  2. Add three-band satellite imagery (5–15 centimeter spatial resolution) and zoom in to an area of interest.
    Zoomed in to area of interest
  3. Click the Analysis tab and browse to Tools.
    Tools on the Analysis tab in ArcGIS Pro
  4. In the Geoprocessing pane, click Toolboxes and expand Image Analyst Tools. Select the Detect Objects Using Deep Learning tool under Deep Learning.
    Detect Objects Using Deep Learning tool
  5. On the Parameters tab, set the variables as follows:
    1. Input Raster—Select the three-band RGB imagery.
    2. Output Feature Class—Set the output feature class that will contain the detected solar panels.
    3. Model Definition—Select the pretrained model .dlpk file.
    4. Model Arguments (optional)—Change the values of the arguments if required.
      • padding—Number of pixels at the border of image tiles from which predictions are blended for adjacent tiles. Increase its value to smooth the output while reducing edge artifacts. The maximum value of the padding can be half of the tile size value.
      • batch_size—Number of image tiles processed in each step of the model inference. This depends on the memory of your graphics card.
      • threshold—The detections that have a confidence score higher than this threshold are included in the result. The allowed value ranges from 0 to 1.0.
      • return_bboxes—If True, the tool will return a bounding box around the detected feature.
      • tile_size—The width and height of image tiles into which the imagery is split for prediction.
    5. Non Maximum Suppression—Optionally, check the check box to remove the overlapping features with lower confidence.

      If checked, do the following:

      • Set Confidence Score Field.
      • Set Class Value Field (optional).
      • Set Max Overlap Ratio (optional).
    Detect Objects Using Deep Learning Parameters tab
  6. On the Environments tab, set the variables as follows:
    1. Processing Extent—Select Current Display Extent or any other option from the drop-down menu.
    2. Cell Size—Set the value to 0.1.

      The expected raster resolution is 5–15 centimeters.

    3. Processor Type—Select CPU or GPU as needed.

      It is recommended that you select GPU, if available, and set GPU ID to the GPU to be used.

    Detect Objects Using Deep Learning Environment tab
  7. Click Run.

    The output layer is added to the map.

    Results from Detect Objects Using Deep Learning tool