Extract and convert a LAS dataset to a raster layer using the Surface Constraints properties in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

In ArcGIS Pro, the Extract LAS tool extracts a LAS dataset from point cloud data, generating a new output file referenced by the LAS dataset. This article provides the workflow to extract a LAS dataset without creating new LAS files, using the Surface Constraint tab. This method manages surface constraints and influences surface triangulation using a LAS dataset without generating new output files for each LAS file.

The image below shows a LAS dataset before the extraction and conversion to a raster layer.

Procedure

Note: The LAS Dataset To Raster tool requires a 3D Analyst license or a Spatial Analyst license.

1. Open the ArcGIS Pro project.
2. Create polygon features within the LAS dataset to use as a surface constraint. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Create a polygon feature for instructions.
3. Add a surface constraint to the LAS dataset.
   1. In the Catalog pane, right-click the LAS dataset and click Properties.
   2. In the LAS Dataset Properties dialog box, on the Surface Constraints tab, expand the Add node.
   3. For Surface Constraint, click the Add button and add the polygon feature layer created in Step 2. Click OK.
   4. For Surface Type, select the preferred surface type from the drop-down list. In this example, Soft Clip is selected. Click Add.
   5. Click OK.

4. Extract the LAS dataset using the surface constraint created in Step 3.
   1. In the Contents pane, right-click the LAS dataset and click Properties.
   2. In the Layer Properties dialog box, on the Surface Constraints tab, check the polygon feature layer check box. In this example, ‘Test’ is checked.
   3. Click OK.

5. Convert the LAS dataset to a raster layer using the LAS Dataset To Raster tool.
   1. On the Analysis ribbon tab, in the Geoprocessing group, click Tools.
   2. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and click LAS Dataset To Raster (Conversion Tools).
   3. In the LAS Dataset To Raster pane, for Input LAS Dataset, select the LAS dataset layer from the drop-down list.
   4. For Output Raster, specify a name and location for the output raster layer.
   5. Click Run.

The image below shows the extracted and converted raster layer using the Surface Constraints tab.