Smartphone-based LiDAR. Can this tool be used to map the trees that sustain Costa Rica's forests?

Overview of Module: 1) Content. Students will learn what LiDAR technology is, with an emphasis on its recent integration into high-end smartphones, and how to use these devices as tools for forest measurement. Basic concepts of forest inventories will also be covered, and the comparison between methodologies will be analyzed using statistical parameters. 2) Activities. Students will work with various point clouds of trees scanned at the study site, which they will be able to visualize, explore, and use to perform measurements on three-dimensional models. Additionally, a general introduction will be provided on the statistical comparison between traditional forest measurement instruments and the use of smartphones with LiDAR technology. 3) Impact. The student will explore the use of technological tools with applications in various fields and will address fundamental concepts such as precision and accuracy, which are essential in science and engineering. Additionally, basic notions about the comparison of methodologies using statistical parameters will be introduced. Learning Objectives: Explore the potential of mobile LiDAR technology for forest inventories and compare it with traditional field methods. Identify situations where 3D point clouds can enhance the understanding of forest structure and support ecological research. Learn best practices for using a smartphone-based LiDAR to measure trees under diverse field conditions. Translation: This module is available in Spanish. Support was provided by:Agrant from the United States National Science Foundation (DBI-RCN-UBE 2120141).