2013 Vendor Track, LiDAR Processing and Terrain Analysis in Global Mapper by Adam Hill

Adding the third dimension to a mapping project can take the power of desktop GIS analysis to the next level. In recent years, high-resolution elevation data has become increasingly available, resulting in more precise analytical tools. Much of this trend can be attributed to the expanded availability of LiDAR data and the development of inexpensive software tools that can process and utilize this data. In this presentation we will consider one such application, Blue Marble Geographics’ Global Mapper software, which can work with over 200 spatial file formats, including LiDAR (.las and .laz), and offers an array of tools for generating terrain surfaces, 3D modeling, and terrain analysis. In this presentation, we will explore LiDAR processing functionality of Global Mapper including point cloud visualization, data quality control and reclassification, volumetric calculation, contour generation, linear profiling, watershed delineation, view shed modeling, as well as terrain flattening and cut & fill volume calculation for site planning.Read less