A vector map extraction approach in a direct 3D visualization environment with lidar data

In this paper, a direct 3D visualization environment with DEM, DSM and DOM from LiDAR point cloud data is presented to replace the stereo observation of photogrammetry image pairs for vector map extraction. A unified DEM, DSM and DOM data model is designed to manage huge data volume and then to construct the 3D visualization environment. With the 3D visualization of LiDAR data, the landscape can be recovered, and thus the vector map can be directly digitized. Also the contour lines can be overlaid in the 3D visualization environment for the further quality check and control. The presented vector map extraction approach can reduce the professional equipment and software investment.