Scaling Point Cloud Data
Point cloud data is a type of 3D data that represents the surface of an object or environment as a set of discrete points in 3D space. It is often used in applications such as 3D scanning, virtual reality, and computer vision. While point cloud data can be very useful and versatile, it can also be cumbersome to work with due to a lack of proper tools and an unorganized infrastructure.
One of the main challenges with point cloud data is the exponential growth in data size as the resolution or density of the point cloud increases. A high-resolution point cloud can easily contain millions or even billions of points, which can be difficult to manage and process using traditional tools. This is especially true when working with large or complex point clouds, such as those generated by 3D scanning of real-world objects or environments.
The linear growth in processing capability is another challenge when working with point cloud data. While the amount of data generated by point clouds is increasing exponentially, the speed at which it can be processed is only increasing linearly. This means that it can take a long time to process and analyze large point clouds, even with the use of powerful computers and graphics processing units (GPUs).
In addition to the challenges of data size and processing capability, point cloud data also lacks proper tools and standards for handling and working with the data. There are few tools specifically designed for point cloud data, and those that do exist are often limited in their capabilities. There are also few standards for storing and exchanging point cloud data, which can make it difficult to share and collaborate on point cloud data with other researchers or professionals.
To address these challenges, the Mpeg (Moving Picture Experts Group) has developed a new standard for point cloud data called Mpeg-I Point Cloud Compression (PCC). This standard aims to improve the efficiency and interoperability of point cloud data by providing a common format for storing and transmitting it. This could potentially make it easier for researchers and developers to work with point cloud data and could lead to more widespread adoption of this technology.
Overall, point cloud data can be cumbersome to process due to its exponential growth in data and linear growth in processing capability, as well as the lack of standards and tools for processing and storing it and the unorganized infrastructure for accessing it. The Mpeg-I PCC standard could potentially help to address these challenges and make it easier for researchers and developers to work with point cloud data.