With the introduction of LiDAR files as an output from LPS eATE, we have expanded the possibilities of preserving the metadata from the matching process. For example, the spectral characteristics of the imagery used to collect the surface, termed RGB encoding. Another property of the LAS file is class attributes. Since we have enough data to define a subset of the class attributes, this is what we have done. This set includes buildings and vegetation. The requirement for vegetation is that it is matched with RGB or FCIR imagery.
Figure 1 - DSM and bare earth models from LPS eATE
As a result of populating the classes in the LAS file, we can now derive some interesting products from LPS eATE. For example a bare earth model can be derived by switching off the buildings and the vegetation (see above). The user no longer has to make a conscious decision to create a particular product any more. Taking this a bit further, we can now remove everything apart from the buildings and start to derive building models of the LPS eATE processed surface.