Point Distribution as True Quality of LiDAR Point Cloud

Abstract

A parameter “point density” is often used to evaluate the quality of aerial laser scanning data. It is a parameter simple for understanding and human imagination. However, the true quality of LiDAR point cloud is based on point distribution. There are researches, which mention importance of point distribution and users’ false perception, that higher point density is better quality of LiDAR point cloud. The goal of this study is to define the mathematical model how to measure quality of LiDAR point cloud. This article discusses the point distribution and LiDAR data quality defining the image resolution of point cloud. It can be interesting for experts in civil geospatial intelligence, LiDAR data processing and flight planning.