WinSCANOPY: Canopy Structure and Solar Radiation Analysis
Image Analysis for Plant Science
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Regent Instruments Inc. since 1991

 

 

WinSCANOPY


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canopy analysis, solar radiation  

WinSCANOPY is regularly updated. Owners are invited to visit this web page regularly for news about updates with the features list. For questions, please contact our sales department at sales@regentinstruments.com

Most recent update: WinSCANOPY 2024
WinSCANOPY 2024a

Release date:10 February 2024

  • The Command Area data are more detailed, better displayed and handle larger font sizes. Information and data colors has been harmonized with other Regent's products. User has more control over which data are displayed.
  • 48 bits color & 16 bits grey image support added.
    • Color analysis can now be done on 48 bits color images for greater precision and accuracy (12 to 16 bits of color information per channel [Red, Green and Blue]).
    • Can now load, scan, edit, analyse and save tiff 48 bits color and 16 bits grey levels images.
  • Canopy & Sky menu renamed Canopy.
  • Analysis/Canopy & Sky Detection renamed Canopy Detection and is now more responsive with color images. Non "Expert" level now hides NDVI canopy detection.
  • Image edition done in the Detected Canopy image can also be applied to the Original image.
  • The Original image can now also be edited after the analysis. The Analysis is redone with pixels reclassification after edition. Note: If the Detected Canopy image is edited, pixels reclassification is not redone.
  • Interactive hemispheres position and size are now automatically stored in the configuration file for later recreation on other images (previous versions required to do a menu command to store it).
  • Long Tooltips (temporary text displayed in yellow box when the mouse cursor is held over a window item) are displayed on more than one line.
  • WinSCANOPY and XLScanopy are now bilingual (French and English). The language choice is made in the Misc. menu or in the Welcome screen at start-up.

    Bug Fix

    Pro Version

    • Color /New Class won't do a reanalysis if the new class is cancelled.
    • Color /New Class will ask if user wants to reanalyse existing analyses (of current and/or all documents) or not if a class was added.

    All Versions

    • After edition of a color original image now asks to update the analysis or not (if one exists or if there are more than one document (main window)). Previous versions required to cancel the analysis after edition and redo it.
    • Removed an inactive item in Data/Data Save Global (Save color classes specifications...).
WinSCANOPY 2022a

Release date: 01 June 2022

All versions:

  • Can now open TIFF "compressed" and JPEG 2000 image files.
  • Can now open PNG image files.
  • Canopy & Sky Detection can be edited after analysis (the latter is updated).
  • Right mouse click slider now shows by default the analysed image threshold value instead of 128.
  • Each menu has now its own Hotkey.

Reg & Pro versions:

  • Multiple documents are now supported, which means the user can work on more than one image at a time. Each document window contains its own image, graphic and data file.
  • Analysis/Measurements has been split in two: Analysis/Parameters and Analysis/Measurements.
  • Analysis/Canopy & Sky Detection moved to CanopySky/Canopy & Sky Detection.
  • North Type and Declination moved from Hemisphere/Identification Preferences to Radiation/Radiation Parameters.
  • Minor modifications to Hemisphere/Camera & Lens. Also, it no longer asks for a code to select the last three pre-defined cameras and lens parameters.
  • Highest Obstruction analysis is drawn in magenta in the Hemisphere.
  • Two more images can be saved in batch analysis mode. These are: The Color Classes and the Color Groups images.
  • User can no longer modify the calibration of a Lens.cal lens (after clicking View/Modify, can only cancel after viewing data).

Pro version:

  • Color classes can be edited, loaded and created after the analysis (the latter is updated).

Bug Fix:

  • Gap Size Distribution Analysis: Memory leak after activating Cancel Analysis (there was no leak if a new image was acquired).

64-bit - All versions:

  • Can load, save uncompressed tiff images larger than 4GBytes (BigTIFF).
  • Can read more BigTIFF large files (over 1GB).
  • Can read Exif and GPS tags in JPEG files.

64-bit - Reg & Pro versions:

  • Can Scan larger images, up to limit of Regent's LA scanners TWAIN drivers.

32-bit - All versions:

  • ijl15.lib no longer required.

Mini versions:

  • Mini versions without LAI and Solar options are discontinued (only the Mini LAI Solar remains but is now called Mini).
  • Interactive Hemisphere creation mode has been added (like the Reg and Pro versions).
  • Hemisphere/Duplicate Last has been added. It recreates the last hemisphere made interactively.
  • User can choose among 3 lens calibration coefficients' pre-sets: Linear, Lens.cal (when a complete system is bought) or Custom (user enter its own coefficients).
  • Now available in 64-bit version.
WinSCANOPY 2020a

Release date: 10 March 2020

  • WinSCANOPY is 3.75 (default settings) to 8.5 (Mask, Filters, Gap Size Dist.) times faster thanks to its Multi-Threaded support (which does tasks in parallel). The speed increase varies in function of the complexity of the analysis (the processings done) and the number of processors/core/threads in the computer. Faster speed gain can be obtained by using higher end computers than those used by Regent in Oct 2019 to make the speed tests.
  • Masks are faster. User can choose slower masks that consume less memory when the latter is thight.
  • WinSCANOPY has a better responsiveness, the analysis can be cancelled at much more places.
  • Latitude and Longitude are saved with more decimals (5 instead of 2). Altitude with 2 decimals instead of 1.
  • Arrow keys can no more be used to change the right mouse click slider position (to change the threshold on a part of the image). This has been done to keep keyboard focus to change ring or from orange to green and vice versa.
  • Image Masks have been removed.
  • NDVI measurements and features are now in the Pro version (instead of Pro NDVI).

Bug fixes:

  • WinSCANOPY Pro NDVI
    • Spectral Index Data Display in Command Area setting (on-off) was not set properly. It was set as the same as the Active Suntrack Data (if the latter was on Spectral Index Data was also on, if it was off Spectral Index Data was also off).
  • WinSCANOPY Pro & Pro NDVI
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. Masks were not handled correctly.
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. The computed clumping index CI(GSD) was not correct.
WinSCANOPY 2019d

Release date: November 6, 2019

  • WinSCANOPY MINI
    • Masks can now be exported to a file and later imported for utilisation on other images.

Bug fixes:

  • Import Masks now imports all masks of the file.
  • WinSCANOPY Reg
    • Manual threshold can now be selected in Canopy & Sky Detection.
  • WinSCANOPY Pro & Pro NDVI
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. Masks were not handled correctly.
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. The computed clumping index CI(GSD) was not correct.
WinSCANOPY 2019b

Release date: April 23, 2019

  • Bug fixes:

    WinSCANOPY MINI
    • Latitude and Longitude specification in decimal is now working.
WinSCANOPY 2019a

Release date: August 20, 2018

  • New driverless protection keys (no more need to install protection key drivers). The key also now contains the WinSCANOPY programs for distribution (not for execution).
  • It now starts in Maximize state as a single window (instead of a window inside a window).
  • Windows menu is gone.
  • Lines drawn over the image can be drawn thicker (user selectable thickness). These are the lines used to identify: The Hemisphere, its sky grid, suntracks, Gap Regions and Masks boundaries, Regent’s Calibration Target detected and size Scale.
  • Keyboard shortcuts have been added:
    • Ctrl + H or Ctrl + R to switch to Hemisphere (Region) creation mode.
    • Ctrl + E to switch to image Edition working mode.
    • Ctrl O to Open a new document (Acquire an image from disk or scanner).
    • Ctrl S to Save the image (with its analysis if it is done).
    • Ctrl I to activate the Display/Image Area menu command.
    • Ctrl M to activate the Mask/New Interactive Inside Mask menu command.
    • Ctrl G to activate the Structure/New Gap Region menu command.

    64-bit version:

    • Can now load images larger than 3GBytes

    Bug fixes:

    • In batch analysis these variables are now saved correctly in data files: Photo number, camera Aperture, Exposure and Acquisition time.
WinSCANOPY 2018b

Release date: November 6, 2019

Bug fixes:

  • Import Masks now imports all masks of the file.
  • WinSCANOPY Reg
    • Manual threshold can now be selected in Canopy & Sky Detection.
  • WinSCANOPY Pro & Pro NDVI
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. Masks were not handled correctly.
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. The computed clumping index CI(GSD) was not correct.
WinSCANOPY 2018a - Release date: 07 November 2017
  • Supports Regent's new Mini-OMount system.
  • Supports the WinSCANOPY Mobile App for Android smartphones which records the OMount's orientation during photo acquisition to determine north direction in the images for solar radiation analyses. It also records position's data (latitude, longitude) if the phone's GPS is receiving data from satellites. WinSCANOPY Mobile. can record orientation by two methods:
    • By producing a LOG file that records the OMount's orientation at multiple photo acquisition times. This feature works with any camera.
    • By storing north direction in individual image files. This feature is camera specific and is only supported by some cameras.
  • The WinSCANOPY software is now available in 4 new simpler and lower cost models:
    • WinSCANOPY Mini: Measures gap fraction and openness.
    • WinSCANOPY Mini LAI: Measures gap fraction, openness and LAI (Leaf Area Index).
    • WinSCANOPY Mini Solar: Measures gap fraction, openness and solar radiations.
    • WinSCANOPY Mini LAI Solar: Measures gap fraction, openness, LAI and solar radiations.

PRO NDVI Version

  • Four new spectral indices (NDVI surrogates) have been added (EVI, MSAVI, Green Chlorophyl, WDRVI).
  • The Spectral indices analysis on-off command has been moved from Measurements to the NDVI menu (it has its own menu item).
  • Some items haveenamed (spectral index instead of color index).
WinSCANOPY 2017b

Release date: November 6, 2019

Bug fixes:

  • Import Masks now imports all masks of the file.
  • WinSCANOPY Reg
    • Manual threshold can now be selected in Canopy & Sky Detection.
  • WinSCANOPY Pro & Pro NDVI
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. Masks were not handled correctly.
    • Gap Size Distribution with the Chen&Cilhar method. The computed clumping index CI(GSD) was not correct.
WinSCANOPY 2017a - Release date: 10 May 2017
  • New NDVI version available.
  • Added support for 2 new cameras and 2 new lenses (sold exclusively by Regent Instruments).
  • Color analysis is from 8 to 13% faster.
  • Modifications to Calibration/Target (for Isolated Tree analysis mode):
    • Regent's target are no more active by default.
    • It no more has the option of loading 1 or 2 images for calibration, it is always 1.
  • Calibration /New Calibration won't load an image, it will use the image displayed in the Image area.
  • An option to zoom the image to fit the screen after acquisition.
  • An option to save the analysed image before acquiring a new one.
  • Magnetic north is active by default (but magnetic declination is 0, so user must specify it).
  • Commands which have been redesigned or changed name:
    • Analysis/Measurements
    • Canopy & Sky Distinction which also has been renamed Canopy & Sky Detection.
    • Calibration/Target
    • Radiation/Radiation Parameters
    • Display/Image Area
    • Save Original Image (With Analysis...) renamed Save Image (With Analysis...)
    • Image/Save Displayed Image moved and renamed Misc/Export Displayed Image For Other Programs.
  • The Command area is wider at startup to allow the display of more information and data.
  • The Command area's Icons are larger (to select them more easily on tablet or small screens).
  • Settings no more saved in tiff file when image is saved before analysis.

Bug fixes:

  • Misc/Print Whole Image when magnification was not 1.0, masks and manual gap regions were not drawn correctly.
  • "Zoom to fit" used to display horizontal lines at some magnifications.
WinSCANOPY 2016a - Release date: 24 November 2015
  • The Pixels Classification image can now be saved in batch analysis (in addition to the analysed image available in previous versions).
  • Displayed Images can now be saved as jpg.
  • The coarseness (resolution) of lasso style Masks' boundary is user selectable allowing a tradeoff between spatial precision and analysis speed.
  • Isolated Tree analysis mode:
    • Calibration can be done on targets other than Regent's models.
    • Can also use a scanner calibration.
    • A Scale can be drawn in the Image area to show the relative size of the image content.
  • The analysis progress bar and message is displayed in the center of WinSCANOPY 's main window (to avoid hiding the title bar).

  • WinSCANOPY 64 bit: A new 64-bit version is now available (as an option at an extra cost). It can analyse larger images and is faster by 5 to 7% compared to the 32-bit version. The 64-bit version can load analysed images made with the 32-bit version but the reverse is not true. Images analysed by the 64-bit version can only be reanalysed/validated with current and future 64-bit versions, not with the 32-bit versions. Data files (containing measurements in .txt files) are identical for both versions however. The 64-bit version do not replace the 32-bit version which will still be updated in the future.

Bug fixes:

  • WinSCANOPY's MainWindow not visible at startup in very rare situations (easy to overcome by using default settings at startup).
WinSCANOPY 2014a
  • Free style Masks are done much faster.
  • It can read orientation (heading) data from Electronic compass or GPS which store them in tiff images files (like our latest 12 MP Point&Shoot).
  • Radiations analyses can be done in batch for images acquired with our new 12 MP Point&Shoot camera system (which stores orientation data in tiff image files).
  • The TWAIN code has been revised to support new scanners and improve existing models.

Interface modifications:

  • The Hemisphere Identification Parameters are now in their own menu command (so they can be set before clicking to create an hemisphere).
  • In the Welcome screen at startup, the user is offered the choice of two settings, those used the last time and the defaults. When defaults are selected, he can choose among 3 cameras' aspect ratios (4:3, 3:2 or 1:1).
  • Pixels classification has been renamed Canopy & Sky Distinction (to highlight what this command do in less technical terms) and moved to the Analysis menu (similar to other Regent's programs).
  • The PxClasssif menu has been renamed CanopySky.
  • New WinSCANOPY program and acquisition icons.
  • Minor esthethic improvements to a few menu commands.
  • In Camera & Lens, "Custom" has been renamed "Parametric".
  • Cover analysis data for individual leaf area measurement are now saved in data files.

Command removed:

  • 10-16 bits images and sub menus

Bug fixes:

  • Color analysis: Won't allow for more than 12 color classes per group.
  • A bug has been fixed in Mean Leaf Angle (MLA).
WinSCANOPY 2013a
Support new cameras and lenses
WinSCANOPY 2012a

Pro version

  • 48 bits color images can be read (tiff uncompressed), analysed (as 24 bit) and saved.
  • More built-in camera and lens models.
  • User can create lens.cal file.
  • The display of Color classes, Color groups or Original image images is now done in alternation by clicking the Color image selector in the Command Area (the displayed image is changed each time you click it).
  • The mouse cursor color (in the Image Area) can be changed.
  • Global threshold: You can choose between the method that was used in versions 2003 and less (for compatibility or for better results with some images) or the versions after it.
  • Other minor display and bug fixes.
  • Revised manual and new pdf manual.
  • NDVI and Color index analyses removed.
WinSCANOPY 2010a
  • (Pro) New measurements have been added:
    • The NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegation Index) which is widely used in agriculture and forestry healthinest/stress assessment. It requires two images of a scene, one in the NIR (near-infrared) wavelengths and one in the Red. NDVI images and data can be created interactively or in batch (without operator supervision) from NIR and R images stored in a folder.
    • Color indexes can be computed on color images. The user can define its own index as a mix of an image RGB (Red, Green or Blue) channels or the ratio of two such mixes. One frequently used index, the Greenness also used in agriculture and forestry healthiness/stress assessment, is pre-defined. Color indexes images and data can be created interactively or in batch (without operator supervision).
  • (Pro) Reflectance calibration can be done using multi-steps targets to get reflectance measurements data and image.
  • (Pro) WinSCANOPY will automatically extract the direction GPS datum when it is present in tif or jpeg files. It can be used as the hemisphere orientation.
  • (Pro) The Latitude and Longitude GPS data are now read correctly as degree, minutes and seconds (instead of decimal).
  • (Pro) Automatic extraction of GPS data (Orientation, Latiutude, Longitude, Altitude) can be turned on or off.
  • (Pro) Improvements to color calibration. White balance can be done with or without pixel size calibration.
  • WinSCANOPY now displays in the Information area (above the image) the pixel value at the mouse cursor position in the image. The data written depends on the image displayed. It can be; the RGB, Grey levels or Color index/NDVI value.
  • Images can be saved with their masks with or without analysis (before it was possible only after the analysis’ first phase was done).
  • Miscellaneous modifications to allow for larger image analysis.
  • Minor bugs fixed.
WinSCANOPY 2009a
  • Image loading and saving in tiff files is much faster
  • It can load one more color tiff file format.
  • It can load wider (larger) images in old tiff format.
  • Original and pixels classification images display at low zoom magnifications (1/16, 1/32, Fit) is done much faster (±4X).
  • Image masks display at low zoom magnifications (1/16, 1/32, Fit) is done much faster (±4X).
  • The “Fit” zoom magnification will display larger images.
  • Right Click Slider (interactive pixels classification adjustment) is faster and work with larger images.
  • All functions of the program have been revised/modified to ensure they work with very large images produced by high-end very high resolution digital cameras (and scanners).
WinSCANOPY 2008a
  • This is the first version designed for and tested under Windows Vista (but it also works under XP). It has been produced by a different compiler (the latest available) and thus has inherited some enhancements of modern tools built-in (increased capacity or limits of some functions related to maximum image size).
  • Filter for chromatic aberrations is back and new lens model are supported for it.
  • All masks can now be used with batch analysis.
  • When creating an hemisphere interactively or in batch, the angle of rotation displayed initially can be 1) zero for north at the top of the image as in earlier versions or 2) the orientation used in the last analysis. The latter allows to analyse in batch hemispheres with north in any orientation in the image (but at the same place for a series of images). The above choice also applies ot hemisphere created with the Hemisphere/Recreate Last” command.
  • The Pixels Classification command has an option to limit the range of the automatic threshold, a beginner/expert mode selector and some minor modifications to the look.
  • 10 to 16 bits per pixel grey levels images are saved in 10 to 16 bits (not 8 as before). (DSLR)

Modifications to the interface

  • The mouse wheel can also be used to scroll the image horizontally (it was working before only in the vertical direction). Press ctrl and roll the mouse wheel to scroll horizontally. Presss shift to scroll faster in both directions.
  • Modifications to the Command Area
    • Its width can be changed interactively.
    • You can right click the mouse in the Command area to set the information displayed there.
  • The graphic above the image display status (set with the ShowHide graphic button) is saved and restored at start up.
  • The Channel selection commands have been moved from the Image to the Display menu. (Pro)
  • The default names for the color groups are: Sky, Canopy, NotUsed.

Some menu items have been renamed:

  • Color/Display Color Groups renamed Color/Display Groups
  • Display/Information Over Image renamed Display/Image Area
  • Display/Information in Command Area renamed Display/Command Area
  • Misc/Print Displayed Image renamed Misc/Print Image Area
  • Image/Save Image has been split in two commands
    1. Image/Save Displayed Image
    2. Image/Save Original Image (With Analysis)
  • Welcome window will fade away after a few seconds.
  • Will zoom closer to the mouse cursor location if it is in image area when pressing the “-” or “+” keys.
  • Misc. minor changes to the window interface of a few menu commands.
WinSCANOPY 2006a
Release date: March 10, 2006

  • Automatic pixels classification is more accurate over a larger range of situations (from low to dense canopy cover).
  • You can choose among two light attenuation profiles when using the Solar and Zenith Thresholds. One is linear (as before), the other is like the SOC (Standard Overcast Sky) diffuse sky light distribution. You can also choose the amplitude of the attenuation.
  • There are more flexible pixels classification interactive adjustments. Modifications can now be done on pre-defined circular shapes (in addition to the previously available free-style regions made with the lasso tool) that can be centered on the zenith (per sky ring) or the sky brightest position.
  • The graphic above the image has three new data types; gap size distribution, clumping index and leaf projection coefficient in function of zenith.
  • It is possible to analyse hemispheres that extend beyond the image boundary. Useful when the hemisphere radius is large (close to the image vertical size).
  • The Masks/New/Parametric command is faster.
  • During hemisphere creation, it is possible to display only its four edges simultaneously to ease the hemisphere centering in the region to analyse (for those who do not use our calibration).
  • The north direction indicator can be rotated faster (during an hemisphere creation).
  • Radiation received takes into account slope and aspect.
  • You can choose the zenith view angle at which the Bonhomme and Chartier LAI method is calculated. 57.5 degrees is the default.
  • The sky grid and suntracks can be displayed while the panoramic display mode is active. When you click it, the relevant information (zenith, orientation...) are displayed in the command area.
  • The clumping factors have been replaced by their reciprocal called clumping indexes (clumping index = 1.0/clumping factor). This allow to compare them to the new ones calculated by the gap size distribution analyses.
  • It is possible to save analysed images during batch analysis (all or a sub-sample of them for a random verification).
  • There are more image magnifications (zoom factors) and a fit-to-screen option (adjusts the magnification so that the image fits entirely in the main window using the maximum area available).
  • The command area is larger so it can display more information.
  • Elevation angles have been replaced by zenith angle. Previous versions used both "elevation" and "zenith" in various commands or data, now it is standardized on zenith.
  • Data/Data File Format has been renamed Data/Information & Global Data and has been simplified (information and data saving can be enabled/disabled by groups of items).
  • Data and information in global data lines have been reordered so that those related are grouped together.
  • In log average LAI methods, (Lang and Xiang 86) you have more choices regarding the processing of regions with a zero gap fraction (no sky pixels). You can choose between a default gap fraction value or a default number of pixels to be classified as gap (typically "1" but it can also be a fraction of a pixel).
  • Choose the number of rings used in the LAI 2000 LAI method.
Bug fixes
  • Color channel change is now compatible with batch analysis.
  • LAI will be calculated in more situations when masks are used (especially when complete rings are masked).
WinSCANOPY 2005a
Release date: January 10, 2005.

  • Support for latest cameras*:
  • A new type of mask, Image Mask has been added. An image mask is an image stored in a tiff or jpeg file which indicates areas of the image to be masked (not analysed). They can be produced by many types of programs (image editors, GIS, ESRI, ArcView (programs who compute view sheds based on digital elevation models,...) or within WinSCANOPY itself by drawing the mask with the edition tools.
  • Pixels classification (into canopy and sky) can be modified or specified for regions of any shape, before or after completion of the analysis. This method is more interactive than the previous Pixel Classifier. Pixels that falls into the canopy group are drawn a different color over the original image as the threshold (pixel classification criteria) is modified by moving a slider bar.
  • Image edition is more precise.
  • The pixels classification image can be edited. Which means you can manually classify pixels directly by drawing in the classification image rather than the original image.
  • Lens.cal or custom hemispheres can be moved during their creation. Useful with DSLR cameras which don't have a stable (repetitive) hemisphere position in the image. Regent Instruments has designed a device which render such position adjustment unnecessary by stabilizing the lens position on the camera. The cameras we sell come standard with it.
  • Hemispheres position can be changed after they have been created.
  • Flickering when resizing the main window has been removed.
  • The lens.cal camera-lens parameters can be copied to a custom (defined by numerical parameters) or interactive (defined by clicking and dragging in the image) camera-lens pair. Practical when you simply want to change some parameters without reentering all of them.
  • A lens calibration (made of a polynomial of order up to 9) can be created by entering a list of zenith angles and their corresponding projected position in the image (determined experimentally).
  • Lens calibration coefficients can be saved and retrieved from files (for user defined customs lenses).
  • Minor modifications
    • jpeg is now the default image type when opening an image (instead of tiff)
    • Latitude and longitude can be specified in degree-minutes-seconds (in addition to decimal) format.
    • It can scroll larger images with the scroll bar thumbs
    • A crash situation removed when editing while pressing the backspace key
    • Camera, Lens and Hemisphere has been renamed Camera and Lens.
    • Duplicate Last Hemisphere has been moved from the Analysis menu to the Hemisphere menu and renamed Duplicate Last.
    • The appearance of some windows (dialogs to enter settings) have been redesigned.
    • Camera has been merged with Scanner in Image/Origin.

*NOTE: Not all the above cameras-lens specifications are included free with the program. Contact our sales dept. for details.

WinSCANOPY 2004a

Release date: March 1st, 2004.

Features
Benefits
FEATURES UNIQUE TO THE DSLR VERSION:

Analyse gray levels images with 10 to 16 bits per pixel.

Versions below the DSLR can only analyse 8 bits per pixels gray levels images. These images can reproduce only 256 gray levels or light intensities. A 10 bits image can reproduce 1024 gray levels, while at 12 bits it is 4096 and finally at 16 bits it is 65536. An image with more bits per pixel has a wider dynamic range (difference between darkest and brightest light levels) and more tonal variations (light differences distinguished between the minimal and maximal light level). Light variations are merged when the number of gray levels is not sufficient. When subtle light variations are preserved, the image contains more details and this gives more choice for pixels classification into canopy and sky.
WinSCANOPY allows you to view and use for pixels classification the images at different bit depths (ex: for a 12 bits image, choose to use all the 12 bits information, only the 8 most or least significant or any middle range bits).
Extract GPS information from camera image files. You can connect a GPS (global positioning system) to some high end cameras (we do sell one such model) to precisely know the location (latitude, longitude and altitude) where the images are acquired. WinSCANOPY will automatically extract this information when it is present in image files so you won't have to enter them during the analysis. Note: Regent Instruments do not sell GPS systems.
Default settings configured for digital SLR camera images. These cameras produce 3:2 aspect ratio instead of the 4:3 of consumer type point and shoot cameras.
Built-in calibration and knowledge about one specific DSLR camera-lens pair. Calibration includes; 1-) non linearities compensation in the image projection position in function of elevation, 2-) determination of the hemisphere center position and 3-) the hemisphere radius that yield a 180 degrees field of view.
Calibration is camera and lens dependent. Only one calibration pair is given at time of purchase of a camera and lens from Regent Instruments. Additional calibrations can be purchased.
FEATURES COMMON TO PRO & DSLR VERSIONS
Extract camera settings information from image files. When a photo is acquired, most digital cameras store their settings in the image files. WinSCANOPY automatically extract this information, displays it on screen and save it with the data when you analyse an image. Some of the information that is automatically read and recopied to the analysis data is: 1-) lens focal length (to make sure that zoom lens was set to the position it was calibrated), 2-) lens aperture, 3-) camera exposure, 3-) camera manufacturer, model and firmware, 4-) acquisition date and time. 5-) ISO and exposure program and modifications, 6-) metering mode.
Select a color channel for viewing and analysis. A color image can be viewed and analysed:1-) in RGB (full) color space, 2-) in true gray levels (converted from the three color channels not just the green channel as some cameras or programs do), 3-) in its red, green or blue channel. You can view the image and histogram of light intensity distribution for each of the preceding choices. You can view the pixels classification before the image is analysed to better choose the channel (or the pixels classification method)
Chromatic aberrations removal filter. This filter compensates for color shifts in function of zenith angle per color channel.
FEATURES COMMON TO REG, PRO & PRO-DSLR VERSIONS
New types of masks and ways to work with them.

(Masks were present in earlier versions. There are now newer types of masks, they can be created with more flexibility and ease and at more moment of the analysis).
1) Create as many masks as you want and of any type.
2) Export and import masks (even from other programs) to files (unlimited number of masks per file).
3) Save them with the image (in the same tiff file).
4) View the mask over the image (not on a grid) as you create them with any method described below.
5) Create masks by 3 methods: a) drawing over the image, b) specifying parameters or c) entering a list of coordinates points in polar or image coordinates.
6) Revert a mask selected region (the masked area can be the inside of the mask or the outside of it).
7) Manipulate masks individually (by clicking it) or as a group. All the above commands works for one or the whole set of defined masks.
New methods of pixels classification (into canopy and sky) and better feedback during parameters selection. There are three new methods to classify pixels, two of which are specific to hemispherical images.
1) an adaptive threshold that changes value in function of the location in the image,
2) an hemispherical threshold that takes into account the light variation of hemispherical lenses,
3) a threshold that takes into account the light variations of the sun position in the image.
The result of the pixels classification can be viewed before the analysis or in the middle of it for any method available including color pixels classification. As you change the methods parameters, the resulting classification is shown in the displayed image.
Histogram Displays the light levels distribution for the gray levels and each color channel. Helps visualize thresholds selection.
Graphic above the image This feature is not new but it was present in the Pro version only. It is now available in the Reg version (and the new DSLR).
FEATURES COMMON TO ALL VERSIONS
Export any images used in the analysis You can save in tiff format ;1-) the pixels classified image, 2-) the color classes image and 3-) the color groups image. You can even analyse them.
Save the analysis with the image. You can save in tiff format an image that has been analysed. When such images are loaded in WinSCANOPY, the analysis is automatically displayed and can be modified. WinSCANOPY can set itself to the same settings as when the image was saved or discard the analysis and keep its current setting.
Note: other programs (like Photoshop) will be able to load the image but they won’t see or display the analysis.
Images can be analysed in two steps; 1-) image analysis (pixels classification) and 2-) canopy analysis (LAI, radiation, site factors...). Allows you to view and or modify 1-) the pixels classification, 2-) create or edit masks, 3-) create gap regions and choose other analysis settings before the analysis is complete.
The analysis can be canceled in two steps. A partial cancel (Delete Hemisphere) deletes only the canopy analysis (LAI, radiations, ...) while a complete cancel deletes all analyses (pixels classification, image edition, filtering, canopy analysis). After a partial cancel, the analysis can be completed (after modification to some parameters for example).
Photo number automatic recognition from file name. From the image file name (ex: ABC00123.jpeg), WinSCANOPY will automatically extract the number (123) and write it in the sample identification window at the beginning of the analysis.
Images centered in the window after loading Saves you a few mouse clicks and time
Analysis can be stopped at any moment. A progress bar is shown during analysis. Press specific keyboard keys to stop the analysis. Can save time when you change your mind.
Contrast enhancement Image contrasts can be enhanced. Some people find it easier to verify pixels classification with it. Has no effects on the analysis.
Analysis is faster .
Images are no more rotated The sky grid and analysis is rotated instead. This saves time and avoid image modification.
Sharpening filter has variable intensity settings Allow more control over the strength of the modification applied to the image.
Magnetic and true north indicated around the hemisphere For visualization and to verify the north position indicated by the NorthFinder.
Altitude, magnetic declination and orientation are specified in decimal (1.2) rather than integral numbers (1). More precise.
Support for new point and shoot camera models Includes pre-defined image resolutions and hemisphere radius. The hemisphere center position in the image is not provided because it must be determined (at calibration or by end user) per camera-lens pair.
Data file format updated To store information and data of new features mentioned in this table.
New manual Totally redesigned with more explanations and color illustrations.
WinSCANOPY 2003d
Release date: Oct 03, 2003. Free to owners of version 2003a, b or c.

  • Minor modifications:
    • WinSCANOPY will ask to save the color classes before quitting if they were not saved after they were created or modified.
    • The sample identification window items have been reorganised (to accomodate the items that will be added in coming versions).
    • Dual scan has been removed from Image/Acquisition Parameters (this feature was not used with WinSCANOPY).
    • Some data file columns have been merged to accomodate new data columns in future versions. New columns are present (those left empty after merging) but they contain no information.
    • Pro version: in the Edit color classes and groups command, orphan pixels in No Class has been removed.
    • Predefined masks are now deleted if the operator cancels the sample identification.
  • Bugs corrections:
    • Removed a crash situation when the Sun Size method was set to Real Size or Penumbra (other than 1pixel).
    • Crash occurred when creating a new mask after using the Pixel Classifier.
    • Sunfleck daily duration data were wrong when the last suntrack point was in the sky (instead of canopy). The wrong data was very easy to detect.
WinSCANOPY 2003c
Shipping date: July 11, 2003. Free to owners of version 2003a and b.

  • Bugs corrections:
    • Ground slope was not used in radiation calculations in versions 2003a and b.
    • The sign of declination value was inverted in all earlier versions.
WinSCANOPY 2003b
Shipping date: May 2003.

  • View Caps have been renamed Masks and have been totally redesigned. There are now more choices of predefined shapes (pie, partial pie, crescent...) and it is now possible to interactively create an unlimited number of them of any shape simply by outlining the areas in the image. They can also overlap to produce complex shapes.
  • You can choose the radiation units among energy (Joules) or quantum (Moles).
  • There are more user adjustable parameters for radiation calculations. The manual has more explanations about the solar radiation and canopy model used to estimate radiations.
  • The resulting lens calibration curve is displayed close to the calibration coefficients in the calibration window.
  • The selection interface for the sky grid number and for some other elements has been improved.
  • View Caps (Masks) are drawn in red instead of magenta and their boundary is thicker.
  • Gap regions are drawn only in the sky grid they have been created. Their data are saved only in the data lines for that sky grid also.

Minor modifications

  • Data/Data Save Options has been renamed Data/Optional Data to Save.
  • Information about Regent's new Mini Mount 3MP Camera has been added in the pre-defined cameras list.
  • The mouse wheel can be used to scroll the image.
  • The Analysis menu has been split in two menus: Hemisphere and Analysis.
  • There are 18 predefined elevation rings by default instead of 20 (to produce 5 degrees of field of view rings).
  • The default solar constant has been changed.
  • >The default diffuse sky distribution model has been changed from UOC to SOC.
WinSCANOPY 2003a
Shipping date: January 10, 2003.

  • Multiple sky grids (Pro only) are now more flexible. Practically all analysis parameters can be set differently form one sky to another. You can change the diffuse light distribution model, the sky minimum and maximum zenith angle, the number of elevation rings, any parameters of the growing season, the substitution of radiation data. This flexibility allows you with a single mouse click to analyse an image many times, each one under different conditions.
  • The pixel classifier has been added. It allows you to:
    • Simultaneously view (side by side) at different magnifications the original image, the pixels classified image (in whole or in part) used for the analysis.
    • To modify the analysis pixels classification in specific regions or for the whole image. The modified classification is also visible in a third image that is displayed for comparison.
    • To update the analysis after modifications have been done to the pixels classified image.
  • This version gives you 100% control on what is saved in data files. This comprises full control over which title lines, analysis settings and measurements data that are written to files. There is also more information that can be saved in data files compared to previous versions (if the image has been edited, the Mask command settings for example).
  • The sky grid field of view (FOV) beginning and ending can be specified. In earlier versions only the maximum fov could be set (maximum zenith angle that the sky grid encompass). Now you can also specify at which zenith angle the sky grid begins so that you can exclude regions close to the zenith from the analysis.
  • It is now possible to measure the gap fraction and radiation data of a region of any shape that you draw interactively in an image. This is done with Structure/New Gap Region which in addition to gap area and position now measures the gap fraction and calculate the radiation above and below canopy.
  • There are two new measurements represented by new data types in the graphic above the image and in data files. These are the sunfleck distribution (number in function of duration in minutes) and the sunfleck total daily duration per day of the growing season.
  • The Analysis/Camera Lens and Hemisphere has been revised:
    • There are two more digital camera models predefined and average values of earlier models have been updated.
    • The name of the effective set of calibration coefficients is written.
    • You can choose among two new predefined lens calibration coefficients.
  • The growing season can now overlapp two years.
  • An optional image sharpening filter has been added.
  • BASIC VERSION: The diffuse sky light distribution model choice is now available among UOC vs SOC.
  • REGULAR VERSION: Multiple skies (which were very limited in functionality) are no more available in this version.They are now only available in the Pro version but have been enhanced significantly.
  • Minor modifications:
    • FOV used has been renamed Maximum Zenith Angle and has been moved from Analysis/Lens to Structure/Sky Grid
    • In some columns of data files, the content is a negative number instead of an emtpy column to indicate that the measurement has not been calculated.
    • The position of some data columns in data files have been modified.
  • Bugs corrections:
    • A lost ressource problem has been solved in a drawing function. This problem was causing a crash after very long periods (hours) of work.
    • In the global title line HemiDiameter has been replaced by HemiRadius. The value that was saved in all versions including this one was the radius not the diameter.
    • The "Sun Size" bug (crash) of earlier versions has been eliminated.
    • Gap regions are deleted when the analysis is canceled (in earlier versions they were deleted only when a new image was loaded).
    • Keyboard commands now works as expected after the graphic above the image has been resized.

XLScanopy compatibility: You should use XLScanopy 2003a to analyse data produced by WinSCANOPY 2003a. You can analyse files produceed by WinSCANOPY 2003a with XLScanopy 2001 provided that the files have no sunfleck optional data. See below for XLScanopy versions history.

WinSCANOPY 2002b

Shipping date: 20 March 2002.

  • The only difference with version 2002a is that this version solves the following problem: Openness value was erroneous when "FOVUsed" was set to a value different from 90 degrees. Ithas the same manual as version 2002a and is sent free to owners of version 2002a.
Known bug (solved in version 2003a)
  • When FOV Used is different than FOV Max, WinSCANOPY will crash if the Sun size method is set to Real Size or Real Size Plus Penumbra. There was no crash is the method was 1 pixel.

WinSCANOPY 2002a

Shipping date: January 2002.

  • Leaf clumping compensation has been added. The four previously available LAI methods are calculated with linear gap fraction averaging (as before) and with logarithm averaging. With linear averaging, gap fractions are calculated for each elevation annulus then the logarithm is calculated and fed into the standard equations. With logarithm averaging, gap fractions are calculated for each sky region (segment of annulus), then the logarithm is calculated per region and the average is then calculated per annulus and fed into the standard equations. According to the litterature, the log-average method gives better LAI estimates for clumped canopy.
  • WinSCANOPY's calculates a clumping factor.
  • Radiation analyses are 29% faster.
  • Ground slope is now taken into account in two LAI estimation methods and in direct radiation calculations. Regions of the image that faces the ground instead of the sky or canopy are identified. Direct radiations blocked out by the ground are also visible in the suntracks over the image.
  • You can set the elevation (zenith) angles at which each sky annulus begins and ends (they do not need to be equal).
  • Images can be analysed with different sky grids in a single pass. You can define up to 10 different sky grids and analyse each image with all of them with a single mouse click.
  • There are more camera default settings to accomodate new models.
  • bmp files opening and analysis possibility has been put back.
  • It is now possible to analyse images of different aspect ratio then the one that was used for calibration.
  • The selection of view caps orientation is easier thanks to a more interactive interface.
  • The Threshold image has been renamed the Pixels classification image.
  • Our LAI2000 generalised and Ellipsoid LAI estimation methods now use the same elevation rings as the diffuse sky.
  • Openess per elevation annulus has been added.
  • WinSCANOPY counts and displays the number of sky regions with a zero gap fraction value. These regions are also identified in the image by a red cross in their centre.
  • All LAI methods are active by default.
  • A red rectangle is drawn around interpolated data in the image when Mask LED presence at north position is active in Analysis/Masks (this helps verify if the specified LED region is good).
  • There are still more tooltips that give information about the main window areas (graphic area, command area and information area components) when the mouse cursor are over them. Tooltips have been added also to the Hemisphere identification window.
  • Display groups rather than classes has been moved to the Color menu (like our other programs).
  • You have more control on what is displayed in the command area. There are more data to display also.
  • Structure/ Gap Fr. Openness, Sky Grid has been renamed Structure/Sky Grid.
  • WinSCANOPY will remember the last image format loaded (bmp, tif, jpg).
  • The NDVI menu is gone (it was inactive in previous versions).
  • The manual has been improved. There are more theory and precisions about the calculations.


Known bug (solved in version 2003a)

  • When FOV Used is different than FOV Max, WinSCANOPY will crash if the Sun size method is set to Real Size or Real Size Plus Penumbra. There was no crash is the method was 1 pixel.
WinSCANOPY 2001a

Basic & Reg: WinSCANOPY 2001a Shiped: August 2, 2001.

Pro: WinSCANOPY 2001b Shiped: Oct 26, 2001.

Features of version 2001a (Basic, Reg & Pro)
  • View caps, to prevent some regions of the image to be analysed (regions that do not contain canopy or sky). These caps have a pie slice shape. They can be oriented in any direction and can have any field of view (0-360 degrees).
  • Extrapolation functions to replace areas that contains unwanted objects (like a LED) in the image at the horizon by neighboring pixel values. It can be used with our North Finder in case it has been misaligned or with other LED or light-based orientation identification system.
  • Improved manuals with better presentation, more explanations and references.
  • Some menu commands have been renamed.
  • XLScanopy compatibility: Use XLScanopy 2.4 or 2001a.
Features of version 2001b (Pro only)
  • This version simply solves the following problem. When the pixels classification method was based on color, that a color image was analysed and rotated, the pixels classification and color classes images were not rotated (only the original image was). In other words, the rotation had no effects on the analysis. This could be easily seen by looking at the color classes or pixels classification image. This version have the same manual as version 2001a.
WinSCANOPY 2.4a

Shipped date: 9 April 2001.
Eligibility: Free if your period of free updates has not expired.

  • Images can be rotated interactively in addition to entering a degree value as before.
  • You can print the image with its analysis over it directly from WinSCANOPY. You can also save it in a bmp file so that it can be read by other programs.
  • More help information about WinSCANOPY's windows and controls is given in the form of tooltips (temporary floating text ) when the mouse is held idle over an item for a few seconds.
  • Totally rewritten manuals with more illustrations and an improved presentation. The Installation, Reference , Introduction and O-mount Instructions manuals have been merged.
  • Dates are entered more easily with Windows standard Date Picker.
WinSCANOPY 2.3b
Shipped date: 21 Nov. 2000.
Eligibility: Free if your period of free updates has not expired.


  • Analyses are approximately three times faster than with earlier versions (depending on which analyses are active).
  • You can edit images with any color of your choice. Click on a color in the image and use it to edit the image.
  • Help information is displayed when the mouse is held over controls (Tooltips).
  • Edition buttons in the command area are now hidden when they cannot be used (they are visible only when the image edition mode is active).
  • More image files can be opened and analyzed (will accept more variations of the same formats as before).
  • The "About WinSCANOPY" window now identifies the version model (Basic, Reg or Pro) running.
  • Some image edition flaws have been eliminated (drawing strokes were temporarily lost after window resize or activation).
  • Known bugs of version 2.3a (see below) have been fixed.
WinSCANOPY 2.3a
Shipping date: 27 Sept. 2000.
Eligibility: Free if your period of free updates has not expired.


Reg and Pro versions
  • More validation are done on the lens parameters in all analysis modes (interactive and batch). Error messages in invalid cases are more specific (wrong centre position, radius too large...).
  • Images with an aspect ratio different from the one used for calibration are detected and not analyzed (unless a new lens definition is done). This is to accommodate cameras like the new Coolpix 990 that has two aspect ratios (3:4 and 2:3).
  • More analysis parameters are saved in data files (i.e. growing season beginning and end).
  • Total radiation data per day are saved at the beginning of optional Radiation data lines rather than at the end. It is easier to analyze or view these data because the information is always in the same column.
  • The active sun track is drawn in bold lines, the others in dotted lines.
  • Analysis/Camera and Lens has been modified. Buttons that select some digital camera parameters are now included.
  • It is possible to associate colors to sun track radiation levels (on screen). See Display/Information over image.
  • Click Shift + Tab to activate Sun tracks from most to less recent.
  • In the Command area, when LAI is not calculated, nothing is shown rather than the value -2.0.
  • First title line identifies the version of WinSCANOPY that created the file (2.3a for example) rather than the data file format version.
  • A bug which appeared when Lens.cal was active has been solved.
 All versions
  • A new version of XLScanopy has been produced to accommodate the data format modifications. New versions of XLScanopy now identify which versions of WinSCANOPY data files it can handle.
Known bugs (solved in version 2.3b)
  • Image edition cannot be activated.
  • It will crash during data saving under Windows 95 when the date setting is in non-US format. This is due to a problem with a Windows function.
WinSCANOPY 2.2a
Shipping date: 5 July 2000.
Eligibility: Free to owners of version 2.1 or if your free update period has not ended.


Pro version
  • A graphic above the image has been added to visualize data during measurement. This includes direct, diffuse and total radiation, over or under canopy radiation on an hourly basis for a particular day or on a daily basis for the growing season. The graphic can also display gap fractions per elevation or orientation and leaf angle density distribution.
Reg and Pro versions
  • The notion of active sun track has been added. An active sun track data can be visualized graphically and numerically.
  • You can click a sun track in the image to activate it and get date, time and radiation information at a particular position or moment of a day on a sun track.
  • Hour of the day can be displayed over sun tracks in the image.
 All versions
  • Data saving is now easier. It is done automatically at the end of the analysis (and updated automatically if you make changes to the analysis).
  • The choice of the image file format (tiff, bmp, jpeg...) remains selected (instead of returning to tiff) after an image has been opened.
  • Dates and hours in data files have the user operating system default format.
  • All previous known bugs have been fixed.
WinSCANOPY 2.1a
Shipping date: Shipped April 4, 2000.
Eligibility: It was sent to everyone who qualified for the free update period.

  • Diffuse radiation data calculated by WinSCANOPY can be substituted: direct radiation data (via data tables per hour of the day per month).
  • Penumbral effect in calculations of direct radiation under canopy.
  • The real sun size and shape is calculated in the image for calculations of direct radiation under canopy.
  • A bug which occurred only on some computers when canceling the loading of an image has been solved.
Minor modifications:
  • Radiation/Location and Growing Season has been renamed Radiation/Direct Radiation Parameters
  • The analysis is slightly faster.
  • If the hemisphere is not entirely in the image, a warning message is displayed.
  • Year is entered at only one place (instead of two) when defining growing season parameters. 
Known bugs (S = solved in next release)
  • A crash occurs when you cancel the Hemisphere identification after at least one image has been analyzed. (S)
  • Zooming to 16 or 32 does not work all of the time. (S)
  • In Analysis/Pixels Classification Method, editing of the numeric threshold value does not have any effect. (S)
  • A crash can occur when entered latitude is high (>65). (S)
  • In global data lines, Diffuse Radiation Under canopy data column contains direct radiation instead. Diffuse radiation under can be easily recalculated and is equal to: DiffuseRadiationOver * IndirectSiteFactor. Total Radiation Under must also be recalculated and is equal to: Direct Radiation Under + Diffuse Radiation Under. Total Site Factor must also be recalculated and is equal to: Total Radiation Under / Total Radiation Over. That problem is only present in version 2.1a and is now solved. (S)
  • When growing season is not used (when sun tracks were created one by one interactively), total radiation per day is not computed. (S)
  • Growing season year was always 2000. (S)
WinSCANOPY 2.0b
  • This version solved a problem with batch analysis (the analysis sometimes stopped after the first image).
  • It can analyze jpeg images in batch mode.
  • It can analyze images of any resolution in batch.
  • A problem with the menus in French has been solved. 
XLSCANOPY
Most recent update: XLSCANOPY 2010
XLSCANOPY 2010a
  • The file version warning has been removed. It was displayed when opening a file more recent than 2006 such as those produced by WinSCANOPY version 2009a or 2010a.
  • A bug preventing to analyse the first data file (when a warning was displayed at opening) has been removed. The file had to be loaded a second time before data was separated into different sheet and graphics could be done.
  • It can now analyse data with a Photo Identification number larger than 32767 (previous versions generated a Run Time Error 6).
  • It can now analyse files with data lines longer than 256 columns. Excel 2007 or more is required.
  • Revised manual.
XLSCANOPY 2003a Features
Shipped: January 10, 2003

  • Supports the two new data types introduced in WinSCANOPY 2003a (sunfleck distribution and the sunfleck total daily duration).
Note: You can analyse files produceed by WinSCANOPY 2003a with XLScanopy 2001 provided that the files have no sunfleck optional data.
XLSCANOPY 2001a Features
Features of: XLScanopy 2001a
Shipped: July 10, 2001



Known bugs: None

XLSCANOPY 2.2a Features
Features of: XLScanopy 2.2a
Shipped: Sept. 30, 2000
.

  • Supports the new data format introduced in WinSCANOPY 2.4 and 2.3.
Known bugs: None
XLSCANOPY 2.1a Features
Features of version: XLScanopy 2.1a.
Shipped: July 1, 2000.


  • A new graphic has been added: total radiation per day.
  • Known bugs have been fixed.
Known bugs: None
XLSCANOPY 2.0a Features
Features of version: 2.0a
Shipped
: End of March 2000.