What is a Point Cloud?
Understand the Data Behind 3D Vehicle Models
When it comes to accurate vehicle modeling for accident reconstruction, not all 3D data is created equal. At Car Clouds, we provide laser-scanned point clouds—a true representation of real-world vehicles captured in high detail. But what exactly is a point cloud, and how does it compare to other formats like meshes?
What Is a Point Cloud?
A point cloud is a collection of millions of individual points in 3D space, each with its own XYZ coordinate. These points represent the exact surfaces of an object—like the body of a car or motorcycle—captured through photogrammetry or, in our case, laser scanning.
Think of it as a "digital spray" of points that outlines every visible contour of the scanned subject. Because each point holds positional data (and sometimes color or intensity), point clouds provide an extremely accurate spatial reference.
Point Clouds vs. Meshes: What's the Difference?
One common misconception is that point clouds and meshes are the same. They're not.
| Feature | Point Clouds | Meshes |
|---|---|---|
| Structure | Discrete points in 3D space | Connected polygons, often triangles, forming (approximating) a surface |
| File Formats | .PTS, .XYZ, .E57 | .OBJ, .STL, .PLY, .GLB |
| Data Type | Raw scanned data | Processed surface model, often simplified |
| Editing | Best for measurements, analysis, simulations | Best for lightweight visualizations, 3D printing |
Point clouds are raw, real-world data—ideal for accurate measurement, comparison, and simulation work. Meshes, on the other hand, are surface models generated by connecting points into polygons, which can introduce smoothing and estimation. For forensic work like crash reconstruction, accuracy matters more than aesthetics or small file sizes.
Can Point Clouds Be Used for Mesh Applications?
Yes, point clouds can be converted into mesh models for use in traditional 3D workflows like gaming, rendering, and general modeling.
If your project requires a mesh, you can use third-party tools like MeshLab, CloudCompare, or other mesh reconstruction software to process the point cloud into a surface model.
Keep in mind: Point clouds provide raw, highly accurate scan data. Mesh conversion is a secondary process that generates connected surfaces (triangles or polygons) from that data, which may reduce some of the real-world precision depending on the method used.
Why Reconstructionists Choose Point Clouds
- Precise real-world dimensions—no guesswork
- Ideal for crush analysis, deformation studies, and vehicle matching
- Directly compatible with reconstruction tools like Cloud Compare, PC-Crash, FARO Zone, AutoCAD, and more
- Downloadable in an industry-standard format: .E57
Get the Data You Can Trust
Car Clouds has been providing point cloud vehicle models to accident reconstruction professionals for years—with a proven track record and zero issues reported. Our models have been used successfully in investigations, simulations, and legal proceedings across the country, and around the globe. At Car Clouds, we specialize in vehicle point clouds, not approximated models. Whether you're analyzing impact zones or preparing courtroom visuals, our scans deliver the detail and reliability you need.
Browse our vehicle library or request a specific model today.