Map-Creator Windows

Map-Creator is a desktop application for planning and visualiz- ing drone missions directly on an interactive map. It allows you to: • Draw polygons or circles on a map • Generate waypoint grids inside the area • Adjust bearing, altitude, photo distance, pitch, and cross patterns • Preview missions visually • Export missions as KMZ files for DJI applications • Load KMZ, KML and CSV missions

Installation

1. Download the Map-Creator release on github. 2. Start the setup wizard. 3. Start the application: • Windows: double-click `map-creator.exe` • Linux: under construction • MacOS: see this page No additional installation is required.

Creating a Mission

1. Use the map tools to draw: a. Polygon for area and POI missions b. 2-point Circle (centre + radius) for circular missions 2. 2. Adjust parameters using the sliders: a. Bearing b. Altitude c. Photo distance d. Pitch e. Cross pattern (optional) f. SkySplat (Video mission) 3. Click Calculate Raster to generate waypoints. 4. Review the flight path and waypoint markers on the map.

Elevation Mode

• When Elevation is enabled, terrain data is fetched online on opentopodata.org • Elevation processing may take a few seconds depending on mission size. • A progress indicator is shown during processing. An internet connection is required when elevation mode is enabled.

Exporting Missions

1. Click Save KMZ. 2. Choose a file location. 3. The KMZ file can be imported into supported DJI applica- tions with my DJIKMZInjector (Windows & Mac OS)

Photogrammetry Wizard (Assistant)

Map-Creator includes an integrated Photogrammetry Wizard that actively assists users in creating reliable and efficient map- ping missions. The wizard continuously evaluates mission para- meters and provides real-time feedback and recommendations to help achieve optimal photogrammetry results.

What the Wizard Does

While you adjust mission parameters or modify the mission area, the assistant analyses: • Forward image overlap • Flight time in relation to the selected drone • Number of waypoints • Mission geometry and camera orientation Based on this evaluation, the wizard provides: 1. Warnings when mission parameters may lead to unreliable results 2. Actionable suggestions, such as: a. Increasing altitude b. Reducing photo distance c. Splitting large missions 3. Clear explanations of why a configuration may be problematic

Non-Blocking Guidance

The wizard is designed as a guidance tool, not a restriction: • You can always continue with your current settings • Warnings do not prevent mission generation or export • This allows advanced users to intentionally deviate from standard photogrammetry rules when needed

Live Feedback Panel

Wizard feedback is displayed in a side panel next to the map: • Updates instantly when sliders or the mission area are changed • Automatically disappears when all parameters are within recommended limits • No pop-up dialogs interrupt the workflow

Mission Type Awareness

The assistant automatically adapts to the mission type: • Polygon (mapping) missions. Full photogrammetry evalu- ation is active. • Helix / circular missions. Photogrammetry checks are dis- abled, as overlap metrics are not applicable.

Purpose

The Photogrammetry Wizard helps to: • Reduce failed mapping missions • Avoid excessive flight times or unstable waypoint counts • Support less experienced users • Speed up mission planning for professionals

Why this matters

Map-Creator does not just generate waypoints — it actively helps you understand the consequences of your planning de- cisions, making it suitable for both beginners and professional operators.

Privacy & Connectivity

• No personal data is stored. • Missions are processed locally on your computer.

Support

Website: https://map-creator.com Email: support@map-creator.com