Why a Unified E57 Format Matters
E57 files are the backbone of data transfer in the reality capture industry, offering a structured way to store both point cloud data and associated images. However, inconsistencies in file formatting often lead to integration issues between devices and platforms.
By adopting a unified E57 format, manufacturers and users benefit from:
- Improved Interoperability: A single standard ensures that data from any compatible mobile scanner can be seamlessly processed by ATIS.cloud and Autodesk ReCap 2025.
- Simplified Workflows: Unified files eliminate the need to bundle separate data types (e.g., JPEG images) in external archives, streamlining operations.
- Enhanced Accuracy: Embedding metadata like camera position, rotation, and spherical representations improves data reliability and usability.
What’s New with ATIS.cloud and Autodesk ReCap 2025
Both platforms have embraced advancements in mobile scanner technology. Here’s how they’ve integrated the new E57 standard:
- ATIS.cloud Compatibility: As of February 2022, ATIS.cloud fully supports unstructured E57 files, including 360° images. This feature allows manufacturers to integrate both point clouds and images into a single, user-friendly file format.
- Autodesk ReCap 2025 Features: ReCap 2025 now enables direct import of E57 files with embedded 360° images. Users can visualize these images as bubbles within point clouds, enhancing data contextualization.
How Manufacturers Can Adapt
Manufacturers of mobile scanners play a pivotal role in the success of this unified standard. To ensure compatibility, they must:
- Adopt Spherical Representations: Ensure 360° images use an equirectangular projection and cover 100% of the field of view.
- Embed Metadata: Include essential information like camera position, rotation quaternion, and sensor vendor tags in the E57 file.
- Follow ATIS.cloud’s Guidelines: Leverage the GitHub repository provided by ATIS.cloud for step-by-step instructions on creating compatible E57 files.
Benefits for Users
End users, from construction professionals to reality capture specialists, will experience:
- Seamless Integration: Directly process data from any compatible scanner without additional formatting or software adjustments.
- Improved Collaboration: Unified files simplify sharing and editing across teams and platforms.
- Future-Proof Technology: Compatibility with emerging standards ensures that your data remains usable as technologies evolve.
A Special Offer for Manufacturers
To encourage the adoption of this unified E57 format, ATIS.cloud is offering one year of free Advanced 5TB subscription to manufacturers who demonstrate compatibility by February 15, 2025.
To qualify, manufacturers must:
- Showcase a public project demonstrating integration.
- Email their project details to integration360 @ atis cloud.
The unified E57 standard represents a groundbreaking advancement in the reality capture industry. By adopting this standard, manufacturers and users can achieve unprecedented levels of efficiency, precision, and interoperability.
Get started today by exploring the ATIS.cloud GitHub repository and contribute to building a more cohesive, innovative industry landscape.