Extract and convert a LAS dataset to a TIN dataset in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

In ArcGIS Pro, a LAS dataset can be extracted or clipped using the Extract LAS tool. Extracting this dataset makes the data more manageable and allows one to focus on specific areas, while converting it to a TIN dataset improves visualization. This article outlines the workflow to extract a LAS dataset using the Extract LAS tool and converting it to a TIN dataset using the LAS Dataset To TIN tool in ArcGIS Pro.

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

Procedure

Note:
The Extract LAS and LAS Dataset TIN tools require a 3D Analyst license.

1. Open the ArcGIS Pro project.
2. Create polygon features within the LAS dataset to be used as the extraction boundary in the Extract LAS tool. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Create a polygon feature for instructions.
3. Extract point cloud data from the LAS dataset using the Extract LAS tool.
1. On the Analysis ribbon tab, in the Geoprocessing group, click Tools.
2. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and click Extract LAS (3D Analyst Tools).
3. In the Extract LAS pane, for Input Point Cloud, select the LAS dataset layer from the drop-down list.
4. For Target Folder, browse to the existing folder location of the LAS dataset layer.
5. For Output LAS Dataset, specify a name and location for the output LAS dataset layer.
6. Expand the Processing Extend node, under Extraction Boundary, select the polygon feature layer created in Step 2 from the drop-down list.
7. Click Run.

4. Convert the LAS dataset to a TIN dataset using the LAS Dataset To TIN 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 TIN (Conversion Tools).
3. In the LAS Dataset To TIN pane, for Input LAS Dataset, select the output LAS dataset layer in Step 3 from the drop-down list.
4. For Output TIN, specify a name and location for the output TIN dataset.
5. Click Run.

The image below shows the TIN dataset generated from the extraction and conversion of the LAS dataset.