Gaussian Splats - A Game Changer for 360-Degree Laser Scanning?

Laser Scanning Has a Limitation - Especially in Complex Environments

Terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) has revolutionized the way surveyors capture spatial data. By providing precise and high-resolution 3D models, it has become an invaluable tool in topographic and infrastructure mapping. However, challenges arise when dealing with complex environments—particularly when scanning objects like tree canopies, dense vegetation, or intricate structures. Traditional point clouds generated from laser scanning sometimes struggle to fully represent these elements, leaving gaps or requiring expensive post-processing work.

But what if there was a way to bridge the gap between photorealistic 3D models and laser-accurate spatial data? Enter Gaussian Splatting, a novel technique that could enhance the capabilities of 360-degree images and laser scanning workflows.

What is Gaussian Splatting?

Gaussian Splatting is an innovative digital imaging technique used in 3D modeling. Unlike traditional photogrammetry, which stitches multiple overlapping images to create a 3D mesh, Gaussian Splatting generates highly detailed models using ‘splats’—tiny overlapping Gaussian-shaped data points that blend together, forming a seamless 3D representation. These splats accurately capture the intricate details of surfaces, including small twigs, cables, and other complex features that photogrammetry and traditional point clouds often struggle with.

This technique provides fast rendering and can preserve fine details, making it an interesting complement to existing survey workflows, particularly when applied to 360-degree laser scanning imagery.

How Gaussian Splatting Can Be Integrated with 360° Laser Scanning

By implementing a workflow that combines terrestrial laser scanning with 360-degree imagery, surveyors can enhance their results without additional expensive hardware. A suggested approach could look like this:

Data Capture – Use a terrestrial laser scanner to capture a full 3D point cloud of the site. Simultaneously, take high-resolution 360-degree images using the scanner’s onboard cameras or a separate 360° imaging device.
Processing in Trimble RealWorks or Similar Software – Process the laser scan data using Trimble RealWorks or another preferred software to ensure georeferenced accuracy and control.
Gaussian Splat Processing – Upload the 360-degree images to Poly.cam or a similar Gaussian Splat processing platform to generate a dense photorealistic 3D model.
Point Cloud Integration – Export the Gaussian Splat-generated model as a .PLY point cloud and import it into CloudCompare to scale and align with the laser scan data.
Final Model Refinement – Combine the datasets in N4CE, Trimble RealWorks, or another CAD-based platform to integrate the photorealistic details with the georeferenced scan data.

This approach allows surveyors to capture fine details often missed in traditional point clouds, particularly for elements like tree canopies, overhead utilities, or organic forms.

Key Benefits for Surveyors

✅ Enhancing Laser Scanning – Gaussian Splatting can fill in gaps where traditional TLS struggles, particularly for organic forms like trees and overhead wires.

✅ Rapid Data Collection – Instead of relying solely on static scans, surveyors can integrate 360-degree imagery into their workflow and process it quickly with Gaussian Splatting.

✅ Improved Visualization – The blending of laser-accurate point clouds with photorealistic Gaussian Splat models can lead to higher-quality deliverables for clients.

✅ Flexible Integration – Gaussian Splatting doesn’t require new hardware—just a change in workflow, making it a cost-effective enhancement.

Conclusion

Gaussian Splatting is still an emerging technology, but when combined with 360-degree images from a laser scanner, it shows serious promise for surveyors looking to enhance their workflows. The ability to quickly generate dense, photorealistic models while maintaining geospatial accuracy makes this a compelling addition to the surveying toolbox. While it doesn’t replace traditional laser scanning, it complements it in a way that could significantly improve results—particularly in challenging environments.

Could this be the next game-changer for terrestrial laser scanning? We think it just might be.