Processing Exterior Scans with EdgeWise

This is a continuation of the previous post Processing Interiors with EdgeWise by ClearEdge 3D.

In this example I used two scans captured from different locations. The positions were previously determined with a conventional traverse that is used for control around the Holman’s Tempe retail store. The scanner used to capture the data was a Topcon GLS-1000. The scanner was set over control points and the Occupy/backsight feature was used to orient the scans to the control coordinates without the use of multiple targets.

As in the previous interior example I used EdgeWise to extract the edges and model the flat surfaces of the building scan.

The Edgewise software leads the user through approximately seven easy steps:

1. Import the Scan (PTX)
2. Locate the scanner (assign X,Y,Z values if needed)
3. Index the point cloud.
4. Extract the ground surface (if needed)
5. Classify the surfaces (two stages: Initial and Final)
6. Extract the edges
7. Export to DXF file

The model is exported to a DXF file and then imported into Google SketchUp or a CAD package for modeling.

Processing Interior scans with EdgeWise

Extracting edges from EdgeWise, a software developed by ClearEdge 3D has proved to be a very user friendly application for extracting 3D polygons and edges from a point cloud. A process I was able to learn in little less than an hour during a web conference with Kevin Williams, of ClearEdge 3D.

In the small example below I started by importing a PTX file that was exported from Topcon’s ScanMaster software. The scan originated from a Topcon GLS-1000 laser scanner.

The Edgewise software leads the user through approximately seven easy steps:

1. Import the Scan (PTX)
2. Locate the scanner (assign X,Y,Z values if needed)
3. Index the point cloud.
4. Extract the ground surface (if needed)
5. Classify the surfaces (two stages: Initial and Final)
6. Extract the edges
7. Export to DXF file

Scan data as imported from PTX scan file. The scanner location is confirmed and the points are indexed.

The Initial Classification.

The Final Classification.

Extracted edges and surfaces are calculated.

The model is exported to CAD or SketchUp in a DXF format.

Final modeling and texturing can be completed in the modeling software of choice. (Google SketchUp pictured above)

Scan data captured with Topcon’s GLS-1000 , using precise scan technology. The GLS-1000 is an ideal product for capturing clean point cloud data for EdgeWise.

GIS Data Collection with Topcon IP-S2

Topcon has a unique new solution for GIS data collection with their new 3D Mobile Mapping solution, the IP-S2. This new system incorporates 360 degree panoramic images with point cloud data. This application allows the user to collect data from within the spherical view of the image while snapping to the precise point cloud data captured from the scanner.

 

Data collected in the form of shapefiles can be imported into your ArcGIS database. Shapefiles can also be imported into the Topcon software to view within the image and scan data to validate existing locations.  

IP-S2 features:

• High definition mobile 3D mapping
• Dual frequency GNSS tracking
• High Accuracy 6-Axis IMU Integration
• Odometry inputs from on-board vehicle CAN bus or wheel encoders
• Supports multiple laser scanner models for operator and application flexibility

IP-S2 Applications

• Roadway Management
  • Paved Surface Inspection
  • Roadside Feature Inventory
  • Photo Logs

• Linear Infrastructure
  • Pipeline Inspection
  • Railway Survey
  • Utility Corridor Mapping

• Disaster Planning and Response

• Homeland Security

• 3D Street-view city mapping

IP-S2 System features
A web-based processing service with desktop PC interface is included as part of the IP-S2 system. Vehicle position and sensor output are integrated seamlessly into one continuous three-dimensional data stream that can be exported as industry-standard formats. GNSS data can be post processed for higher accuracy. The desktop software also includes a viewer enabling the user to review point clouds generated from LiDAR scanners and make linear measurements.
The IP-S2 provides fast, high accuracy data and dynamic imaging for any linear mapping project. The vehicle-mounted system can map data at normal travel speeds for roadway surface condition assessments and roadside feature inventories. Safety is increased by removing pedestrians from the travelled lanes. Other applications include pipelines, railways, utility corridors, and waterways. Homeland security and disaster management are critically important to our health, safety and welfare. The IP-S2 is perfect for 3D street-view city mapping and provides essential information for these applications

Integrated Positioning System
Topcon’s IP-S2 Mobile Mapping System overcomes the challenges of mapping linear features to a high level of accuracy. Accurate vehicle positions are obtained using three redundant technologies: a dual frequency GNSS receiver establishes a geospatial position; an Inertial Measurement Unit (IMU) tracks vehicle posse; and connection to the vehicle CAN bus or external wheel encoders obtains odometry information. These three technologies work together to sustain a highly accurate 3D position for the vehicle even in locations where satellite signals can be blocked by obstructions such as buildings, bridges, or tree lines.
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