Usually, point cloud data is processed from LIDAR scans of real-world objects. Then the data is imported into a 3D modeling or CAD program and the point cloud is then converted into a mesh or other solid data object. This scanning process is an integral part of the field of photogrammetry and its related field, Geographic Information Systems (GIS).
Another way to develop point cloud data is to use survey photographs. I downloaded sample survey photos from the photogrammetry site, Agisoft.com . Agisoft provides downloadable sample data of real world objects that have been photographed or 3D-scanned. I selected their building sample.
The next tool in the Autodesk Point Cloud pipeline is to use the online web-app Autodesk ReCap. ReCap allows the user to import photographic surveys and 3D scans in order to create a 3D mesh or point cloud.
The next step is to assign registration points in two photos in the survey series. This step allows ReCap to estimate and calculate the distance between different faces of the object. I chose the front window as my registration point because (1) It was dead center and (2) There is a clear view of it in each photo, regardless of the angle.
After allowing for ReCap to process the survey images into a model, I exported it as both an .obj and a .rcs file. The final steps were to open 3ds Max and import the .obj so that I had a visual reference of what my point cloud should look like. I then used the Point Cloud geometry modifier and loaded the .rcs as my "Scan Source". After adjusting the distance between points and the texture shading, I had my point cloud data!
