Converting Data

Global Mapper provides various tools for converting data between the main data types of vector, lidar point cloud, 3D Model, imagery and terrain data.

Vector Type conversion:

• Create Points from Lines/ Areas
• Create Line(s) from Area(s)
• Create Areas from Lines
• various additional Advanced Feature Creation options

Create 3D Areas from 3D Models...

This tool will convert a 3D model into 3D area features, assigned to the TIN Face Area feature type.

Create Image Layer from 3D Model(s)...

For 3D models that contain a texture, this tool will convert the applied texture into an orthoimage.

Create Point Cloud from 3D Model(s)...

This option will convert a 3D model into a point cloud by including the vertices, and sampling the faces.

Create Point Features at Elevation Grid Cell Centers

This option will convert a terrain grid to a 3D point cloud (lidar).

Create Mesh Features from Terrain

Create a mesh feature from terrain (and drapped imagery).

Create Elevation Grid from 3D Vector Data

Create a gridded raster elevation dataset from loaded 3D areas and lines, lidar, and/or 3D models.

Create Area Features from Equal Values

Convert terrain or imagery to vector format using the pixel values.

Pixels to Points ®

Create a point cloud, textured 3D model and/ or Orthoimage from a series of overlapping images.

Create Mesh from Selected Lidar

Create a 3D model from selected lidar points. This will create a colored mesh using the pixel colors (not a photo textured mesh).

 Feature Extraction

Create building areas, tree points, tree coverage polygons or power lines from classified 3D point cloud data (lidar).