This specification describes a data file exchange format for three-dimensional (3D) imaging data, known as the ASTM E57 3D file format, Version 1.0. In this specification, the term "E57 file" is used as a short version of "ASTM E57 3D file format". An E57 file is capable of storing 3D point data (those produced by 3D imaging systems), attributes associated with 3D point data (color and intensity), and 2D imagery (digital photographs obtained using a 3D imaging system). This specification describes all data that will be stored in the file, which is a combination of binary and eXtensible Markup Language (XML) formats.

1.1 This specification describes a data file exchange format for three-dimensional (3D) imaging data, known as the ASTM E57 3D file format, Version 1.0. The term “E57 file” will be used as shorthand for “ASTM E57 3D file format” hereafter.

1.2 An E57 file is capable of storing 3D point data, such as that produced by a 3D imaging system, attributes associated with 3D point data, such as color or intensity, and 2D imagery, such as digital photographs obtained by a 3D imaging system. Furthermore, the standard defines an extension mechanism to address future aspects of 3D imaging.

1.3 This specification describes all data that will be stored in the file. The file is a combination of binary and eXtensible Markup Language (XML) formats and is fully documented in this specification.

1.4 All quantities standardized in this specification are expressed in terms of SI units. No other units of measurement are included in this standard.

1.4.1 Discussion—Planar angles are specified in radians, which are considered a supplementary SI unit.

1.5 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety and health practices and determine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.

1.6 This standard does not purport to address legal concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility of the user of this standard to comply with appropriate regulatory limitations prior to use.