An Object functions as a cohesive unit that binds together a collection of Shapes. It can exist across multiple sensors and carries attributes defined by its allocated Class. Unlike Shapes, an Object does not have inherent coordinate information; instead, its spatial representation is determined by the Shapes associated with it. Within our framework, a Shape cannot exist independently it must always be an integral part of an Object.

A Shape represents the coordinate-based aspect of an Object. It defines the physical location and geometric representation within the system. Shapes cannot exist independently; they must always be associated with an Object. This relationship ensures that every Shape contributes to the overall definition and functionality of its corresponding Object.

For each object, you will have to define its Class. The Class of the object will define the static and dynamic attributes the object and its shapes will have. Regardless of the number of shapes included in the object, it will always only have 1 Class.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to Assign a Class to an Object

Open the object you wish to annotate. Click on the "Select Class" button to open the Class selector panel. Browse the available Classes using your mouse or use the search bar to quickly find the desired Class. Select the Class you want to assign to the object. Review the default values for the object and shape attributes provided by the selected Class. The selected Class will be applied to the object and its shapes, maintaining consistency in attributes.

Set attributes at the object level

A major benefit of assigning attributes at the object level is the consistency of these characteristics, regardless of the sensor type used for detection. While some attributes, like truncation and occlusion, might differ across sensors, they are more of an exception.

When attributes are set at the object level, they are universally applicable. This means these attributes remain true no matter how the object is observed – be it through a camera or LIDAR. 

If the attribute is different from the default value, you will notice a purple highlight at the right side of that specific attribute item.

Set attributes at the shape level

We already understand that it's possible to have attributes at the object level, but what about attributes at the shape level? This is also possible and can be configured within the project's taxonomy.

To add an attribute to a shape in the workspace, simply scope into the object and click on the shape.

You can include multiple shapes within a single object. To do this, simply scope within the object and then create a new shape from your 2D or 3D canvas. You can use your shortcuts to enable the creation tools within Split view or you can use the toolbar. You're free to add as many shapes as you need. In this way, you can easily create an object that contains multiple shapes.

Another interesting and useful feature is the ability to nest objects or put one object inside another. You can conveniently do this by dragging and dropping an object into the objects list. Additionally, this functionality allows for even more depth, enabling you to create a third level of nested objects if needed.

How to Un-nest an Object

If you need to un-nest an object (remove it from its parent object), simply drag the object to the top of the currently selected object, where a back arrow will appear.

It is possible to copy and paste objects and/or shapes using the right-click contextual menu or keyboard shortcuts (CTRL-C and CTRL-V).

Copying a shape
You can copy shapes from one object to another. 

Should you copy a shape and paste it directly into the objects list, a new object containing that shape will be created (unspecified class). 

Copying multiple shapes
You can select multiple shapes from an object with the CMD shortcut and mouse click. Once selected, these shapes can be copied and pasted either into another object or in the objects list (creating a new object).

Copying an object
You can copy an object directly from the objects list. It can then be pasted in the objects list or within another object (nested object). Please note that this new object will contain all the shapes of the initial object it was copied from.