E57 File – What is .e57 file and how to open it?
E57 File Extension
LIDAR Point Cloud Data File – file format by ASTM E57 Committee on 3D Imaging Systems
The E57 file extension represents a point cloud data file developed by the ASTM E57 Committee on 3D Imaging Systems. It enables the exchange of 3D point cloud data collected from various LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) systems.
Origins and Development
The ASTM E57 file format was created by the ASTM International Committee E57 on 3D Imaging Systems. The primary purpose of this format is to facilitate the interchange of point cloud data between different software applications and systems that process and analyze three-dimensional spatial information. The E57 file format is widely used in the fields of surveying, architecture, engineering, and manufacturing, where it has become the de facto standard for storing and sharing large point clouds.
Technical Specifications
An E57 file is a binary file that stores both geometric information (point coordinates) and descriptive attributes (colors, intensities, labels, etc.) associated with each point. The file format follows a hierarchical structure, allowing for efficient organization and retrieval of data. E57 files support lossless compression, which preserves the full accuracy of point cloud data, making them suitable for applications where high precision is required. Additionally, E57 files can embed annotations, metadata, and other auxiliary information, providing context and additional details about the point cloud data.
Opening E57 Files using Software
To open .E57 files, specialized software is required as they contain complex 3D point cloud data. One popular option is CloudCompare, an open-source software for processing and visualizing point cloud data. It supports importing, exporting, and manipulating E57 files, allowing users to inspect, filter, and analyze the data.
Furthermore, commercial software such as Geomagic Design X and Leica Cyclone are also capable of opening and working with E57 files. These programs offer advanced features for point cloud processing, including point cloud registration, mesh generation, and data analysis. They are commonly used professionals in fields such as engineering, surveying, and architecture.
E57 File Format
The E57 file format is an industry-standard format for storing and exchanging point cloud data captured by laser scanning (LIDAR) systems. Developed by the ASTM E57 Committee on 3D Imaging Systems, E57 files are widely used in various industries, including architecture, engineering, construction, surveying, mapping, and manufacturing. The E57 format provides a standardized way to store and manage large amounts of 3D point cloud data, including point coordinates, intensity values, and other attributes associated with each point.
Advantages of E57 Files
E57 files offer several advantages over other point cloud formats. They are highly efficient in terms of file size, allowing for the storage of massive datasets without compromising accuracy or detail. The E57 format also supports lossless data compression, ensuring that no data is lost during storage or transmission. Additionally, E57 files are independent of the hardware and software used to capture the data, making them compatible with a wide range of scanning systems and software applications. This interoperability facilitates data sharing and collaboration among professionals working with point cloud data across different platforms.