Cycle paths design based on aerial laser scan data

Abstract

SummaryDevelopment of cycle routes in Poland is a frequently discussed topic. This type of infrastructure may be designed using a variety of methods. Manual planning of new cycle paths based on aerial laser scan data is relatively quick and also precise. The ALS technique can provide the required accuracy of design map in terms of elevation measurements. It is worth noting that only a few years ago studies indicated that elevation measurements were less accurate when using this particular technique [Hejmanowska, Warchoł 2010]. The designer has a detailed insight into the studied area. He may easily assess the terrain and choose the optimal location for the given object. Planning the route course and its elevation variability is simple when using a Digital Terrain Model. The first stage of the present study analyses the rules that apply to bicycle route design and the area covered by the study. The course of the new cycle path was planned in such a way as to connect the most important places in towns as well as places of tourist interest. The resultant route is 1.8 km long and runs along the main road. Development of DTM and its visualizations were performed mainly on the basis of two point clouds provided by the Geodetic and Cartographic Documentation Center. The initial works were performed in MicroStation PowerDraft V8i software. In the next stage, a 3D visualization of the model was generated with the use of Surfer 11 program. Based on that, a longitudinal profile of the route was created.