3D Data Science with Python

Chapter 1. Introduction to 3D Data Science

Have you seen the movie The Matrix? Can you picture the thousands of moving green characters set against a black background? These represent “the world” for a computer program, with a set of rules and algorithms that determine how things work. Without stretching the fundamentals too much, our setting for 3D data science is not too far from this idea.

Imagine having the ability to create accurate digital settings of real-world phenomena. From an existing factory, you could study the impact of a new virtual assembly line with robots and conveyor belts. In healthcare, you could simulate the effect of different medical treatments on a patient virtual model. Based on a city model, you could predict the impact of natural disasters and propose the best emergency response scenario. We have so much to gain by digitizing our world. But where do we start?

In 3D data science, we generate and work with spreadsheets that describe environments such as your city. We then combine interdisciplinary techniques to extract valuable insights and design tools that can augment the three-dimensional groundwork. This revolutionizes our decision-making capabilities by working toward an accurate digital link with reality.

The best part? You do not need a PhD to get started. A basic curiosity and a sprinkle of programming skills (think very basic Python) are all you need to dive into this exciting field.

This chapter establishes the foundation for our exploration ...