Abstract: A summary of the definition, classification and application of point cloud segmentation was presented, several kinds of typical point cloud segmentation algorithm were compared, analyzed and evaluated, such as edge-detection method, surface-growing method, scan-line method, clustering methods, graph partitioning methods, etc. The characterstics and application environments of each method were presented. The main problems in point cloud segmentation methods were pointed out, and the description and evaluation of point cloud segmentation in related fields were conducted. At last, problems and prospect of the techniques were also discussed.

Key words: Point cloud, Segmentation, Laser scanning