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3. Data processing automation

Approaches:

  • Graphical modelers (this lesson)
  • Scripting (usually Python - next lesson)

Graphical Modeler

A Graphical Modeler in GIS is a tool that allows users to create, automate, and visualize complex geoprocessing workflows using a graphical interface instead of scripting or manual execution. It enables users to design models by connecting different GIS processes, tools, and datasets in a flowchart-like manner.

Such tools are available in most widely used platforms such as ArcGIS Pro or QGIS. In this lesson, we will demonstrate the practical tool available in GRASS GIS (https://grass.osgeo.org, another open source GIS) and ArcGIS Pro (proprietary, see lesson 1).

Task

Desing model based on lesson 2 workflow.

GRASS GIS

Create new GRASS project (location) in EPSG 3035:

Import DEM, LUCAS, and CORINE data. Due to the size of the dataset it is recommended to import only data relavant to AOI. It can be done by using v.in.ogr's -r flag which respect the current computation region.

Now try to solve in GRASS processing workflow from lesson 2 by running GRASS tools (list below) manually.

  1. g.region
  2. r.mapcalc.simple
  3. r.null
  4. r.to.vect
  5. v.extract
  6. v.clip
  7. v.buffer
  8. v.select

Based on the processed workflow, design a model using Graphical Modeler:

GRASS_GIS model v1

Note

Download GRASS GIS model v1

Enhanced model UI

Define model UI:

  • MASL
  • CLC expression
  • LUCAS expression

Run parametrized model in GRASS GIS environment:

Note

Download GRASS GIS model v2

Task

Create a new mapset and run the parametrized model on different land cover class, eg. Woodland (LUCAS: lc1 LIKE 'C%', CORINE: Code_18 > 310 and Code_18 < 319).

ArcGIS Pro

Repeat the calculation in ArcGIS Pro including the model.

Basic model example:

ArcGIS model v1

Note

Download ArcGIS Pro ATBX

Enhanced model UI

Run parametrized model in ArcGIS Pro environment:

ArcGIS model v2

Task

Run the parametrized model on different land cover class.