However, they can also be directly rendered, so they are converted into polygon or triangle mesh models or computer aided design (CAD) models which can be used to create three dimensional models of a city, construction site, or mining site. Once the data is completed and a point cloud is available, they can be used in a variety of ways, including creating topographic maps of an area or digital elevation models for undeveloped land. Drones can take thousands of pictures of an area from different angles and analysts can process the images together to develop a point cloud, filling minimal gaps with surface reconstruction. The photographs are taken from different locations, and points are triangulated then plotted on the three dimensional space. Photogrammetry creates measurements using a series of images. Because laser scanners can have a scan speed of well over a million points per second, LiDAR is the most accurate, detailed, and precise way to create a point cloud. This data is cross-referenced with GPS and inertial measurement units and each pulse of the scanner creates a data point. Light Detection and Ranging, or LiDAR, is a remote sensing method that scans an area with a laser and then measures the light’s reflection and range from the earth’s surface. Point clouds are generally created in one of two ways, LiDAR and photogrammetry, and are georeferenced for accuracy. Depending on the data gathered and how dense the point cloud is, the more details and specific types of terrain and structures you’ll see. For example, if the data compiled to create the point cloud is taken from a neighborhood, it will show the location of each building, tree, and power line, along with its elevation relative to the ground. When each point is placed together, it creates a three dimensional map or model. What Is a Point Cloud?Ī point cloud is a collection of individual data points in a three-dimensional plane with each point having a set coordinate on the X, Y, and Z axis. But how does the data obtained through images or laser scanning transition into these highly detailed models? The bridge between them is called a point cloud, and to help you understand how they work, we’re sharing an in-depth look at what a point cloud is and how it is used. Government agencies, construction companies, and countless other industries rely on photogrammetry and LiDAR to form highly detailed, accurate 3D maps and models. What Is a Point Cloud and How Is It Used?
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |