Single tree modeling and vegetation visualization using lidar data

Two applications of Lidar in three-dimensional visualization were proposed. The first one was single tree modeling. Regional-Maximum and K-means algorithm were used to isolate one single tree and its data points, and a SuperQuadric surface was fit as the silhouette of the tree's canopy. Then a geometric tree model was obtained with L-studio software. The second application was 3D vegetation visualization using DCM (Digital Canopy Model) to control the location of every single tree. DCM was calculated by subtracting DTM (Digital Terrain Model) form DSM (Digital Surface Model). DCM was a direct reflection of above-ground vegetation height, so it was used to determine whether a coniferous tree, deciduous tree or grass should be planted inside the DTM triangles.