Topic Introduction

Earlier in the course we briefly touched on the applications of LiDAR. In this topic we will learn how to analyze point cloud data for a variety of reasons. LiDAR is a prominent tool, often used in evaluating forest inventories because of its capabilities to accurately represent 3-D data.

Topic Readings

Required Readings

There are no required readings.

Optional Readings

• Zhang, C., Zhou, Y., & Qiu, F. (2015). Individual tree segmentation from LiDAR point clouds for urban forest inventory. Remote Sensing, 7(6), 7892-7913.

Fundamental Concepts

Lecture Video & Powerpoint

• Advanced LiDAR Data Processing

FODE009_4.5 Advanced LiDAR Data Processing.pdf Download FODE009_4.5 Advanced LiDAR Data Processing.pdf

Self Check (For certificate learning only)

Self-check Quiz 4.5

Quiz Questions:

• What are point clouds?
• What affects the derivation of tree heights when using LiDAR?
• What is a CHP?
• What is a height percentile?

Check Answers:

Instructions: Take the quiz by clicking Self-check Quiz 4.5 and compare your answer with the Model Answer after your attempt.

Activities & Assignments (For certificate learning only)

Class Forum Topic 4.5

Follow detailed requirements in FODE009_Forum Post 4.5.docx Download FODE009_Forum Post 4.5.docx

to prepare your forum post for this week. For general participation and grading criteria, please see detailed description under Modules > Graded Assignments > Class Forum Discussions page.

Assignment/Lab 7: Processing LiDAR Data in FUSION

Start doing Assignment/Lab 7 for this week. For detailed instructions and grading criteria, please see detailed descriptions under Modules > Graded Assignments > Assignment 7. You may use FODE009_Assignment 7 Answer Sheet.docx Download FODE009_Assignment 7 Answer Sheet.docx

to put together your answers to the questions in the lab.

Topic Summary

There is a big focus in current research on expanding the capabilities of LiDAR. With new complex algorithms, researchers are working to develop extremely accurate estimates of biomass, forest structure, terrain, and much more.

Topic Self-review (For self learning)

Please use the reflection questions below as study guide to conduct self-review for the topic.

• How do you extract terrain data using LiDAR?
• What differences are there in tree structure data analysis when looking at individual vs. stand level scales?
• How is crown diameter/area calculated?
• How are CHPs calculated?
• How are height percentiles calculated and analyzed