Data Models in 3D Scanning
When working with 3D scanning, you inherently work with massive amounts of data. With photogrammetry specifically, it involves the processing of usually hundreds of images, as well as the resulting 3D model. If only doing one scan, processing and storing the data is manageable. However, as soon as multiple scans are needed, and especially if working with high volume 3D scanning, a good data model is essential. It determines how your scan data is organized, named, stored, and processed. A clear strategy in this area not only saves time, resources and potential headaches, but also minimizes potential errors and increases the reliability of your results.
Why a Good Data Model is so Important
Imagine you are managing an e-commerce project with hundreds of scans of various shoes. Without consistent naming conventions and a clear folder structure, finding specific scans becomes a tedious task. Inconsistencies in file names or missing metadata can lead to confusion and significantly complicate further processing. An added complication when working with photogrammetry software in particular is that they often require a clear source of which images should be used in the 3D model calculation.
A well-designed and thought-through data model provides a remedy in the form of:
Efficiency: Quickly finding and assigning data
Reliability: Minimizing errors and confusion
Reproducibility: Traceability of work steps, even after time has passed
Automation: Basis for the automation of scan processes
Examples of Data Models in 3D Scanning
A data model can vary depending on the project and application. Here are some examples of how you can design such a model:
Naming Conventions
Define clear rules for naming your scan files. Ideally these should include information about the scanned object, the date the scan took place and any other relevant parameters: “ObjectName_SerialNumber_Date.FileFormat”, e.g. “Engine_AB1234_20240701.stl”
Metadata
Use metadata to store additional information about your scans. This can include information about the scan settings, any materials used, camera settings or other relevant details.
Folder Structure
Creating a logical folder structure means your data gets organized meaningfully. This can be done according to project, object groups, date or other criteria:
ProjectName/
ObjectGroup1/
Date1/
Scans/
ProcessedData/
Date2/
Scans/
ProcessedData/
ObjectGroup2/
…
Unique Identifiers: DOI, URI and URL
In the context of data management, archiving and especially when publishing scientific 3D scan data, unique identifiers play a crucial role. They ensure that data can be unambiguously identified and accessed, even if its location or storage medium changes. Three important types of identifiers are:
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
A persistent identifier for digital objects, such as publications, datasets or 3D models. It provides a stable link to the object, even if the URL changes. DOIs are particularly relevant for academic publications and research data, ensuring long-term accessibility and citation of your 3D scan data.
Uniform Resource Identifier (URI)
A string of characters that identifies a resource on the internet. It can be a URL or another type of identifier. URIs are a general concept for identifying resources, while URLs are a specific type of URI that provides the location of a resource.
Uniform Resource Locator (URL)
A URL is a specific type of URI that provides the address of a resource on the Internet or internal server infrastructure. It tells you where to find the resource. While URLs are widely used, they are not always reliable. If a website or server infrastructure changes its structure, the URL may become invalid.
By using these identifiers, you can enhance the discoverability, accessibility and long-term preservation of your 3D scan data, especially in academic and research contexts.
QR-Code-Based Workflow Automation
A particularly elegant solution to streamline the scanning process is the use of QR codes. By labeling each object with a unique QR code in advance, containing details such as the object name, serial number or other relevant data, the workflow becomes both faster and more reliable. A QR code reader integrated into the scanning process automatically captures this information at the start, ensuring that objects are correctly identified without manual input. The data can then be used to generate automated file names and folder structures, saving time, reducing errors, and creating a seamless, fully organized workflow.
Conclusion
A well-thought-out data model is a critical factor for the success of 3D scanning projects. It creates order, saves time and minimizes sources of error. Investing in time to plan your data model will pay off in the long run. In particular, the integration of QR codes offers enormous potential for automating and increasing the efficiency of your scan processes. Furthermore, consider the use of unique identifiers like DOIs for long-term preservation and citation of your 3D scan data.
