Introduction
In this chapter, we will explore the 3D capabilities of PostGIS. We will focus on three main categories: how to insert 3D data into PostGIS, how to analyze and perform queries using 3D data, and how to dump 3D data out of PostGIS. This chapter will use 3D point clouds as 3D data, including LiDAR data and those derived from Structure from Motion (SfM) techniques. Additionally, we will build a function that extrudes building footprints to 3D.
It is important to note that for this chapter, we will address the postgreSQL-pointcloud extension; point clouds are usually large data sets of a three dimensional representation of point coordinates in a coordinate system. Point clouds are used to represent surfaces of sensed objects with great accuracy, such as by using geographic LiDAR data. The pointcloud extension will help us store LiDAR data into point cloud objects in our database. Also, this extension adds functions that allow you to transform point cloud objects into geometries and...
