What is a point cloud?
A point cloud is a collection of individual 3D points, each with X, Y, and Z coordinates, representing the surface of an area captured by a drone. It serves as an intermediate data product for generating digital surface models (DSM), digital terrain models (DTM), and other 3D visualizations.
What do people use point clouds for?
Point clouds are mainly used for 3D modeling, volumetric measurements, and detailed structural analysis. They are valuable in industries like construction, forestry, and surveying, where precise elevation and structural details are needed. However, for most mapping applications, DSM and DTM provide the same useful elevation information in a more accessible format.
What are the benefits of the DSM and DTM compared to point clouds?
Digital Surface Models (DSM) and Digital Terrain Models (DTM) are easier to use, require less processing power, and are compatible with most GIS and mapping tools.
DSM represents the earth’s surface, including buildings, trees, and other objects—ideal for analyzing landscapes, vegetation, and urban planning.
DTM represents the bare ground surface without objects—useful for terrain analysis, flood modeling, and environmental assessments.
Since they are raster-based, they integrate seamlessly into mapping workflows, unlike point clouds, which require specialized software and advanced processing.
What are the benefits of a point cloud compared DSMs and DTMs?
Point clouds allow for greater detail and flexibility in 3D analysis, which DSM and DTM cannot fully replicate.
They provide true 3D representations, enabling precise measurements of vertical structures, such as building facades and tree heights.
They allow for custom classification of objects, distinguishing between ground, vegetation, and man-made structures at a fine scale.
They can be used for advanced 3D modeling and simulations, such as virtual reality environments or complex engineering designs.
However, for most mapping applications, DSM and DTM provide the essential elevation data in a more user-friendly format without the need for complex processing.
Can i see the point cloud on GeoNadir?
No, GeoNadir does not currently save or display the point cloud. Instead, we generate and provide the Digital Surface Model (DSM) and Digital Terrain Model (DTM), which contain the key elevation information most users need—without the complexity of working with raw point cloud data.
Can i download the point cloud?
No, GeoNadir does not store or provide the point cloud for download. Since most users need elevation data rather than the raw point cloud, we focus on delivering Digital Surface Models (DSM) and Digital Terrain Models (DTM), which are more practical for analysis and mapping.