5 Frequently Asked Questions About Point Clouds Answered

September 16, 2022

5 Frequently Asked Questions About Point Clouds Answered

Point clouds play a crucial role in modern engineering and business operations in general. These models provide an accurate and intricate 3D model of a structure, space, or object. In turn, that model supports informed and effective decision-making for businesses across many wide-ranging use cases.

What is a point cloud?

The general concept is relatively simple. 3D laser scanners commonly map points of a given area or thing, generating a point cloud dataset.

Each individual point has a set of unique Cartesian coordinates. When visualizing the 3D point cloud, the data creates a richly detailed model.

There are plenty of other common questions asked about point clouds, too. So many, in fact, that we’ve put together this list of five frequently asked questions about point clouds, along with their answers.

1. What is the Purpose of a Point Cloud?

The overarching purpose of creating a point cloud is to build an accurate, detail-rich model. That can mean everything from a cross-section of a part for quality inspection to a complete 3D model of a facility. Laser scanning captures rich data, which can display minute changes and variations when envisioned with point cloud processing software.

It may sound a little strange, but the versatility of these data sets can make it difficult to define all of the potential use cases for them. A geospatial data specialist will use a model in a much different way than would an architect or facilities maintenance manager, for example.

The richness and reliability of these clouds connect all possible use cases, despite their differences. Every professional who utilizes one in their work can count on a detailed and accurate model.
In terms of construction, operations, and facilities management, point clouds empower staff in a variety of ways. These models support everything from straightforward virtual inspections to visualization of changes and modifications to a building or area of a facility.

2. How are Point Clouds Generated?

Accurate data capture is the first step to generating a cloud. Generally, lasers (specifically LiDAR — laser imaging, detection, and ranging) are the primary tool used to scan an area or object to generate data points. It’s also possible to use photogrammetry, deriving measurements and other key information from photographs and supporting data.

In many cases, several Lidar scans are needed to completely capture the necessary data for a large area, complex object, or structure. That’s because the data capture ability of the scanner is limited to its point of view when in use.

Ensuring accuracy and consistency is crucial in these efforts. Professionals will use artificial targets and similar measures to ensure scans of the same object or area taken from different locations will align.

Point cloud software plays a vital role in generating the point cloud model. These programs transform the data set gathered into a visual model. Leading point cloud software also allows users to centralize clouds and other models, like building information modeling (BIM), as well as combine and overlay them.

3. How Accurate are Point Clouds?

A recent survey conducted by NavVis and a variety of leading 3D technology publications, including Geo Week News, sheds light on industry attitudes toward point cloud and mobile mapping accuracy and quality. With roughly three out of four professionals saying point clouds are accurate enough for their needs, it’s a clear sign of the reliability of point clouds.

Because modern scanners can capture so many data points, there’s little argument overall that point cloud technology is accurate. As long as surveyors are attentive and follow best practices, they can almost always capture the data needed to generate an accurate model.

The industry survey also noted that quality, as opposed to accuracy, is the leading consideration for professionals in the field. A lack of quality can make it difficult to find specific elements in a point cloud model, even if all of them are accurate. This issue is much more prevalent with mobile scanners than with fixed ones, due to the additional technology involved.

4. What is Point Cloud Processing?

Point cloud processing is the act of transforming the data gathered by a Lidar or other scanner into a model. This is a foundational need when it comes to these clouds. The raw data alone doesn’t provide the rich model that’s so useful for professionals in a variety of industries.

One common task completed as part of processing is aligning several partial scans of a complex area or object. This creates a more accurate and high-quality final model.

Processing will also convert individual data points into shapes that better represent the appearance of the scanner’s target. That makes for a richer and more useful final model.

5. Where Can I Find a Point Cloud Library?

The Point Cloud Library (PCL) is an open-source, standalone project. It is free for both commercial and research use, the PCL explains.

The free, in-depth resources this project provides can help professionals, amateurs, and all others interested in point clouds learn more about point cloud processing.

5. Where Can I Find a Point Cloud Library?

Making the Most of Your Point Cloud Data and Models

Point clouds play a key role in the digital visualization of everything from small individual components to entire buildings and neighborhoods. When combined with other 3D datasets, like BIM, and other project and asset information, point clouds can become even more valuable.
Transforming data into insights is the ultimate goal of gathering information like point clouds. The right software solution can bring 3D datasets and additional information together in a way that fosters collaboration and provides a single source of truth.

JP Interactive Viewer does exactly that, providing one system to store and connect all project, operational, KPI, analytics, modeling, and other data. The result is an end-to-end digital twin solution — a full and complete model of your organization’s facilities or its projects.