CAD/GIS Integration – Aerial Cable Way and LiDAR terrain and vegetation analysis

I developed a GIS-CAD integrated system in QGIS for aerial cableway planning in the Berner Oberland, Switzerland, utilizing LiDAR-processed terrain and vegetation data to optimize route planning, mast placement, and regulatory mapping, while ensuring seamless integration with existing forest management GIS systems for both in-house and contracted operations.

Screen shot of the GIS system showing the planned aerial cable ways, logging cuts, topographic lines and vegetation height

Screen shot of aerial cable way CAD software SeilkranPROjekt

Project description: Autumn 2015. As part of the GIS operations management system project in the Berner Oberland, Switzerland, I was also tasked with developing a GIS system integrated with CAD software to facilitate the planning and construction of aerial cableways. These temporary cable systems are frequently used in forestry and construction due to limited road access on the region’s steep mountainous terrain.

The GIS system was built using QGIS, selected for its compatibility with CAD software, while maintaining full integration with the existing forest management GIS system built in DigiTerra. This setup allowed seamless data access between QGIS and DigiTerra, ensuring synchronized updates and automated backups.

To support precise cableway route planning, I processed raw LiDAR data to generate centimeter-accurate terrain and vegetation height layers. The planned cable routes were then exported to CAD software, where mast locations and heights were optimized for structural feasibility. Additionally, template maps were created for submission to aviation authorities to streamline regulatory approval.

Beyond system development, I also participated in on-site cableway construction, ensuring the GIS system was practical, user-friendly, and tailored to operational needs. The system was successfully implemented for internal planning operations as well as for contracted projects serving private individuals and companies.

End products: An integrated GIS and CAD system for quick and effective planning of temporary areal cable ways for forestry operations.

Demonstrated skills: GIS and CAD system design, Raw LiDAR data processing, Working with client in the field to understand their needs

Software used: ESRI ArcGIS, GRASS, QGIS, SAGA, DigiTerra, SeilkranPROjekt (from eß’wär Informatik, distributed by FOMEA GmbH)

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