Extract Ground-Level Point Cloud Regions

Use the Extract Ground command to extract a new point cloud region that includes only ground-level scan points, as determined based on the geometry of the scene (not laser intensity). The extraction algorithm assumes that the ground is locally horizontal (normals are used if available) and locally flat (local planarity is computed). Since the algorithm adapts its parameters automatically according to the density of the point cloud, no input parameters are required.

Note the following when using the command:

The ground-extraction algorithm is intended to extract the lowest ground surface in the scene. For example, in a multi-story building, only the lowest floor would be extracted.
The ground-extraction algorithm may produce unexpected results when applied to noisy data that includes parasite points below the ground. Therefore, it is recommended that you manually eliminate these parasite points (select the points in 3D View and select the Keep Out command) before using the Extract Ground command.
Unlike the Extract Classified Point Cloud Regions command with the Ground option selected, which is intended for use only with outdoor datasets, this command is intended to be used with any kind of dataset (indoor, outdoor, or both) to extract the lowest and biggest ground area in the datasets. For example, in an indoor/outdoor dataset, the algorithm will extract both the outdoor ground and the indoor floor (if they are connected and at similar levels).

Prerequisites:

See the Subscription Plans page. For a license matrix by command, see the License page in the TBC Community. Also see View and manage licensed features.

To create a ground-level point cloud region:

Using a graphic view or the Project Explorer, select one or more existing point cloud regions from which you want to create a ground-level point cloud.
Select Extract Ground in Photogrammetry > Data.
The new point cloud region is displayed in graphic views and a new Ground point cloud region node is displayed in the Project Explorer. You can double-click the node to display and edit the properties for the new ground-level point cloud region.
Select View Filter Manager in Home > View to hide and show any point cloud region.