Posted: Wed Apr 04, 2007 6:26 am Post subject: Point Cloud data transfer
Is there a standardized data exchange format for point cloud data? I am referring to giving a point cloud to someone who is using a different software package that works with point clouds. I realize that each software has its own file structure that it works with. I was wondering if there is a basic universal format similar to a dxf for CADD programs.
There are not realy any standards in scandata formats just a selection of formats that most software can handle, Some better than others. These would be .PTX .PTS .XYZ .TXT .LAS .DXF(if small ). If you have a specific need just post which software you have and where its going and I'm sure someone will help.
Thanks actually you answered the question. I was just not sure whether other software had the abilty to handle the basic .PTX .PTS .XYZ .TXT point file structure.
Posted: Tue Jul 24, 2007 6:55 am Post subject: Re: Point Cloud data transfer
ScanningDutchman wrote:
Is there a standardized data exchange format for point cloud data? I am referring to giving a point cloud to someone who is using a different software package that works with point clouds. I realize that each software has its own file structure that it works with. I was wondering if there is a basic universal format similar to a dxf for CADD programs.
Trimble bought a software company called BitWyse Solutions out of Salem, MA. They read point cloud data from most all scanners and deliver it in a common file format or they can use the data inside of AVEVA, Autodesk, Bentley or Intergraph environments.
In the meanwhile, it depends on your native file and what program you want to import. If a file format doesn't exist, just contact the company and see if they will work with you. It benefits them that they have a vast assortment of dll's to read competitor's data...
Most commonly used file formats are of course ascii text files (xyz, pts, txt, cvs, asc, cor, svy) but these can be huge files when exported.
Binary files are the best, but it's not common for proprietary file formats to be openly distributed (yet). Cyclone now exports PTZ format and more people are starting to use that. Before ptx was most common. Some short range scanners use STL files for mesh surfaces, and not points.
It all depends what you want to do... _________________ Ed Oliveras
3SPACE, Inc.
Measurement Specialists
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