How do I create a simple 3d model using xyz or las files

[DonaldPirie-Hay]

First time 3D modelling here.

Looking for some simple steps to help guide me along to making a fairly simple 3d model starting from xyz and/or las files. Ideally I'm looking to create a model that will show vegetation, as can be calculated from las files and las datasets.

Really new to this, so any help is greatly appreciated.

[KishorGhatage · Accepted solution]

Could you please use following steps to create or display the xyz data in a 3D way?

1.  Add the XYZ in ArcMap.

2. Right click on the file > Display XY. It will create a point event layer

3. Export the event layer to create a feature class or shapre file.

4. Go to Spatial analyst tool bar > Interpolation > Topo to Raster. It will create a surface.

5. Add this raster in ArcScene or use it in raster calculator for any 3D calculations.

I hope this is helpful.

Please let me know if my understanding is wrong.

[EverardoBalboa]

Good afternoon, I am new to LIDAR as well and I did all the steps, but i get an error output surface raster is empty, feature is empty etc.   Can you assist?

Also, all i have is point data.

[KishorGhatage]

In case of LIDAR data (if you have .las file) first Create a LiDAR dataset and export it to raster.

Create LAS Dataset (Data Management)

ArcGIS Help 10.1

LAS Dataset To Raster (Conversion)

ArcGIS Help 10.1

Creating raster DEMs and DSMs from large lidar point collections:

ArcGIS Help 10.1

Hope these links are helpful

Regards

Kishor

[EverardoBalboa]

This is what I get when I do the topo to raster:

geometry is not supported for this operation.

Failed to execute (TopoToRaster_5).

End Time: Thu Jun 04 11:43:13 2015 (Elapsed Time: 1.00 seconds)

[EverardoBalboa]

Thank you for the response.  I only have xyz files and no las files.  I was wondering if I can create or how do i create LAS files from XYZ is it even possible?

[KishorGhatage]

As you are working with XYZ flies the above steps (1-5) should help you. Is it possible to share a xyz flie? I can quickly test it and let you know the results.

kishorg007@gmail.com

Regards

Kishor

[EverardoBalboa]

I apologize for the delay.  Please check your email and thank you for your assistance.