Convert CSM to PLY

The CSM (Character Studio Marker) file extension is associated with Autodesk's Character Studio, a component of the 3ds Max software. This file format is used to store 3D character position markers, which are essential for animating biped characters in motion capture data. Introduced in the late 1990s, CSM files are ASCII text files that contain raw marker position data generated by motion-capture devices. These files facilitate the accurate alignment and calibration of character models, ensuring realistic animation sequences. Character Studio Marker files have been instrumental in advancing 3D animation and motion capture technology, providing a standardized format for storing and manipulating character motion data.

The Polygon File Format (PLY) is a versatile file format designed for storing 3D polygonal models. It originated at Stanford University in the mid-1990s to support the Stanford 3D Scanning Repository project. The primary purpose of PLY is to efficiently represent and exchange three-dimensional data, including vertex coordinates, colors, and normals. Its flexibility makes it valuable for various applications such as 3D scanning, computer graphics, and 3D printing. PLY files can store both ASCII and binary data, making them adaptable for diverse processing needs within computer technology.