title: 3D Equivalent of Bitmap (bmp)
body: <p>In the same way that a bitmap (bmp) is just a 2 dimensional array of values representing white/black or color - is anyone aware of a similar type of "structure" for a simple 3 dimensional bitmap?  In other words, a 3 dimensional array of values representing black/white or color?  </p>
  
  <p>It seems like there are a variety of problems that <b>could</b> potentially be solved relatively easily with such a "point cloud" type of structure. </p>
  
  <p>In other words, without getting into the whole 3d rendering world, some problems seems solvable with a much simpler data structure, and far less math than is usually involved with managing 3d objects effeciently (using OpenGL, DirectX, Axiom, GDI+, etc).</p>
  
  <p>I understand that this structure would not be "efficient" along a variety of vectors - but... it seems like there may be certain problems that would seem to lend themselves to such a "model" of a 3d object.  </p>
  
  <p>It would also be helpful to have an algorithm to generate such a point cloud from other 3d file types such as STL, Mesh, POV, BLEND, etc).  Maybe one of these is already such a structure?  (newbie) :)</p>
  
  <p>Any suggestions or information greatly appreciated.  Thanks in Advance.</p>