I am implementing a C++ application that must produce DEMs from LIDAR data. I am following the next workflow:
- Write .las files from lidar data.
- Use PCL algorithms to transform/filter the point cloud.
- Use GDAL/OGR to create the raster/grid.
- Create a 3D model (.obj) from raster.
In this process I am doing the next file conversions:
- From ".las" to ".pcd" (To work with PCL).
- From ".pcd" to "vector format" (i.e. "ESRI Shapefile") (To work with GDAL).
- From "vector format" to "raster format" (i.e. ".tif") (To generate the DEM).
- From "raster format" to ".obj" (To visualize the DEM in 3D).
I'm using gdal_grid to create the grid from vector format file and gdal_dem to create the DEM using GDAL interpolation algorithms.
I'm not sure If this is the best way to create a DEM from .las files. I want to use third-party libraries to transform, filter or interpolate the point cloud and PCL/GDAL have these tools.
Anyone with experience with DEMs can give me information / advice?