Recommended method to storing spatial data to then post process

Hey Everyone,

Thanks for reading this in advance. I haven't posted on here before but thought it would be worth it as I cannot find any related discussion (or am just using the wrong words).

I have 3D spatial data; i.e. I am experimentally measuring flow velocity over a 3D space. At each measurement location, I need to storage various results (1000s of repeats for the 3 axes of velocity with multiple other values). I will then need to post process and visualise the data in various ways.

I know I could do this with a 3D structure but I wondered if there is another way, or more importantly, a better way? Does anyone have any recommendations or experience with this?

A 1D structure would be simpler but it might make it harder or even easier to manipulate the data later. It depends how you set it, meaning a 1D structure would require a reference array with all the coordinates of the measurement locations. I can see many different ways to tackle this problems so I am hoping someone might have some useful advice..?

Can anyone suggest a good method to store 3D spatial data?

Thanks, Pete

[Image Analyst]

Do you have a solid 3D rectangular block of data with values at each and every location ? Like a CT or MRI image? Or do you have just values at certain specific (x,y,z) locations, like you put up a dozen wind/temp/humidity-measuring instruments in a room? So that you have only a sampling of all possible locations?

[Peter Halswell]

The second, values at certain specific locations. Each experiment will involve a different set of specific locations. Thanks.