Automated tracing process from point-cloud data in AutoCAD

[Anonymous]

Hi,

I am not sure if this is something that can be done within ReCap / AutoCAD's standard commands or, I will have to create a LISP routine to do so.

I am using point-cloud data to create sections of buildings although may be of any hollow 3D structure. I create a 50mm or 100mm wide 'swathe' as seen in plan view, from the cloud data and then export this to AutoCAD and create a pcg file. This is then 'flipped' by 90 degs to view face on or rather, the 'z' levels now being the 'y' values in screen coordinates. This swathe now appears as a band of points no more than 2mm wide generally along all sectioned features (floors, walls, doors, windows, roof-line etc)..

I am looking for an automated method for AutoCAD to follow these 2mm lines and simply plot a Polyline along its centre. There will obviously need to be some sort of tolerance setting and there will undoubtedly be issues where point density is dubious or points missing or more then 2mm wide etc but, it is hoped that the vast majority of the process may be created automatically, reducing the Drafter's work time greatly.

Any thoughts, comments or otherwise?

Thanks.

R

[john.vellek]

HI @Anonymous,

Here is an article that describes extracting section lines from your point cloud. Here is another that might help as well.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.

[Anonymous]

Hi John,

Thank you for your reply. What the articles suggest seems to be the solution that I am after. Can you tell me, do these relate to AutoCAD 2018 only or earlier versions? I think it is 2015 that we run at work.

I assume that they are the standard versions of CAD and not ReCap etc or similar?

Thanks.

R

[john.vellek · Accepted solution]

Hi @Anonymous,

I no longer have AutoCAD 2015 to test this upon.  Try this please. When at work, attach a point cloud to your drawing file.Then, when you select the point Cloud do you see an Extract Panel on the Ribbon? This should show you the extraction options for your product version.

Please select the Accept as Solution button if my post solves your issue or answers your question.

[Anonymous]

Hi John,

I am actually 2014 which I have checked and does not have the command options that you mention. We're about to upgrade to 2018 which I understand does but, I am told by my CAD manager that he is delaying the upgrade as it apparently does not display the clouds as clearly / densely as the previous version.

Thanks again though for you input.

R

[john.vellek]

Thanks for the feedback!

I don't work with point clouds a  whole lot but I have had no issues with 2018.  If you want to play, you might download a copy of 2018 as a trial (make sure you let your CAD Manager know first).  You can install it along side of your existing product without affecting it.

Here are the system requirements if you decide to give the Trial a go.