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Instruments & Technology
Point Cloud
A three-dimensional dataset of millions or billions of points with XYZ coordinates, obtained through laser scanning or photogrammetry.
A point cloud is a three-dimensional dataset consisting of millions or even billions of individual points, each with precisely determined XYZ coordinates. Point clouds are the foundation of modern surveying and 3D modeling.
Point cloud characteristics:
- Point density - number of points per m² (e.g., 50-500 pts/m²)
- Precision - coordinate determination accuracy
- Color (RGB) - color values for each point
- Intensity - reflected signal strength (LiDAR)
- Classification - point assignment (ground, buildings, vegetation)
Point cloud acquisition methods:
- LiDAR scanning - laser pulse-based technology
- Photogrammetry - from overlapping photographs
- Structured light scanners - especially for interiors
- Total stations with scanning function - combined instruments
Point cloud processing:
- Data acquisition and verification
- Registration (connecting different scans)
- Noise filtering
- Classification (ground, buildings, vegetation)
- Product generation (DTM, contours, cross-sections)
Data formats:
- LAS/LAZ - standard LiDAR formats
- E57 - open scanning format
- PLY, PCD - general 3D formats
- RCP/RCS - Autodesk formats
Point cloud applications:
- Construction documentation - existing situation recording
- BIM integration - building information modeling
- Volume calculations - precise volume determination
- Deformation analysis - comparison over time
- Cultural heritage - monument digitization
- Industrial surveying - equipment and pipeline surveying
Point cloud size:
Point clouds can be very large - a single scan can contain billions of points and occupy tens of gigabytes. This requires specialized software and powerful computers for processing.