This work focuses on the extraction and reconstruction of the tree branching models from large scale 3D
LiDAR point clouds, utilizing the concept of skin models for modelling tree joints. Tree joints are one of
the most challenging components to model due to its potential for highly intricate morphology and complex
branching topology. During the reconstruction process, point clouds first undergo a classification process to
remove leaves and then skeletonization to derive the branching morphology and estimate individual branch
thicknesses. The tree branching model can then be modelled as a collection of cylindrical volumes connected
by fused tree joints. The novelty of this work lies in the usage of skin surfaces as a proxy for modelling the
tree joints. The generated tree triangular mesh surface is smooth and continuous, and we further propose a
method to convert it into quadrilateral patches. The benefits of having piecewise components of branches and joints are such that it facilitates the subsequent generation of 3D finite elements, as they can be handled and meshed independently.
License type:
http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-nc-nd/4.0/
Funding Info:
The authors gratefully acknowledge the financial support of the research grant under Virtual Singapore
Programme (NRF2017VSG-AT3DCM001-029) from the National Research Foundation of Singapore.