Automatic vectorization converts dense point cloud data into clean vector geometry — lines, polylines, polygons — that can be used directly in CAD software like AutoCAD, Civil 3D, or MicroStation.
Why Vectorization Matters
Point clouds contain millions of individual points — powerful for visualization but difficult for design work. CAD applications need defined geometry:
- Property boundaries
- Building footprints
- Contour lines
- Road edges
- Utility locations
Vectorization bridges the gap between raw 3D survey data and production-ready deliverables.
2D and 3D Vector Outputs
Modern vectorization software generates both 2D and 3D deliverables:
2D Outputs:
- Planimetric maps with contours
- Building footprint polygons
- Road and parcel boundaries
3D Outputs:
- 3D building models with heights
- TIN surfaces for terrain
- 3D breaklines at true elevation
Benefits of Automatic Vectorization
Building Footprint Extraction
Automated building footprint extraction creates CAD-ready polygons from classified point clouds:
- Roof perimeter detection from building-classified points
- Regularization — straightening edges to architectural standards
- Height attributes — building elevation data preserved
- LOD1/LOD2 models — extruded 3D building geometry
Perfect for urban planning, digital twins, and municipal GIS databases.
Types of Vector Features
Contour Lines
Connect points of equal elevation representing terrain shape:
- Major contours: Index lines at regular intervals (5m, 10m)
- Minor contours: Intermediate detail (1m, 2m)
- Supplementary: Half-interval for flat terrain
CAD output: Polylines at specific elevations with attributes
Building Footprints
Outlines extracted from classified point clouds:
- Roof perimeter outlines
- Simplified/regularized polygons
- 3D extruded models with heights
Breaklines
Critical terrain features that control surface modeling:
- Ridge lines and valley bottoms
- Road edges and curbs
- Retaining walls and embankments
Utility Features
Linear infrastructure extracted from point clouds:
- Power line conductors
- Tower/pole locations
- Pipeline routes
Output Formats
DXF/DWG
AutoCAD native format with layers, attributes, and 3D geometry
Shapefile
GIS standard for attribute-rich vector data with projection info
GeoJSON
Web-friendly format for modern GIS applications
Generate CAD-Ready Vectors Automatically
LidarVisor extracts contours, building footprints, and breaklines from your point clouds automatically. Export to DXF, Shapefile, or GeoJSON for direct use in CAD and GIS workflows.