Integration of Laser Scanning and Photogrammetry

The term “integration” can be defined as the fusion of two separate entities, resulting in a new entity. Integrating laser scanning with photogrammetry allows us to compensate for the individual weaknesses of each method alone, thus providing more accurate modelling, interpretation and classification of the surroundings. Laser scanners produce data that can vary in terms of point density, field of view, amount of noise, incident angle, and distribution method. Similarly, the accuracy requirements or level of automation may also vary. Therefore, no single registration method overcomes others. The most suitable method is usually case-specific. This paper presents a short overview of current registration approaches and proposes four levels of integration: object-level integration, photogrammetry aided by laser scanning, laser scanning aided by photogrammetry, and tightly integrated laser scanning and optical images. In addition, some examples are presented of integrated laser scanning and photogrammetric data. * Corresponding author.