Visualize LAS points by proximity in ArcGIS Pro

Summary

In ArcGIS Pro, it is possible to identify and visualize data points that fall within a specific proximity of other data points. For example, visualizing vegetation areas that can potentially interfere with the operation of high-voltage transmission lines or powerlines. This visualization can be achieved in 3D.

Procedure

The following instructions describe how to visualize LAS points by proximity in 3D. In this example, the vegetation LAS points are identified and reclassified as obstructions to a powerline.

1. Add the LAS dataset to a scene or map in ArcGIS Pro.
2. From the LAS dataset, filter the LAS points identified as vegetation. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: Change filter options for a LAS dataset for more information.
3. Add the LAS dataset in Step 1, and filter the LAS points identified as a powerline.
4. Extract the LAS points using the Extract LAS tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select the Extract LAS tool.
   2. In the Extract LAS pane, for Input LAS Dataset, select the LAS dataset added in Step 3.
   3. Specify a name and location for Target Folder.
   4. Optionally, name the Output LAS Dataset.
   5. Click Run.
5. Convert the extracted LAS points in Step 4 to multipoint geometry using the LAS to Multipoint tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select the LAS to Multipoint tool.
   2. In the LAS to Multipoint pane, for Input, select the LAS dataset.
   3. Specify a name and location for Output Feature Class.
   4. Specify the Average Point Spacing. This value is based on the Point Spacing value of the LAS dataset. Refer to ArcGIS Pro: LAS dataset properties for more information.
   5. Click Run.
6. Convert the multipoint geometry in Step 5 to 3D point features using the Multipart to Singlepart tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select the Multipart to Singlepart tool.
   2. In the Input Features drop-down list, select the multipoint features created in Step 3.
   3. Set a name and location for Output Feature Class.
   4. Click Run.
7. Reclassify the LAS points within the distance of the input 3D points using the Locate LAS Points By Proximity tool.
   1. In the Geoprocessing pane, search for and select the Locate LAS Points By Proximity tool.
   2. In the Input LAS Dataset drop-down list, select the vegetation LAS file.
   3. In the Input 3D Features, select the powerline 3D point features created in Step 4.
   4. Specify a value for Search Radius.
   5. Specify a name and location for Output Feature Class.
   6. Specify a value for New Class Code for the encroachment points.
   7. Click Run.

The image below shows the vegetation LAS points identified and reclassified in 3D (visualized in red) after running the Locate LAS By Proximity tool.