Convert MVE to RVL

Understanding the mve file format

MVE files are video files primarily associated with the Interplay MVE format, which was used in classic video games such as Fallout and Baldur's Gate. These files contain both video and audio streams, optimized for playback within the game engine. MVE is a proprietary format and is not widely supported by modern media players or editors.

Understanding the rvl file format

RVL files are less common and can refer to different formats depending on the context. In many cases, RVL is associated with 3D point cloud data, such as the format used by the Stanford 3D Scanning Repository. These files store 3D scan data, including points and sometimes color information, for use in visualization and analysis software.

How to convert mve to rvl

Direct conversion from MVE (video) to RVL (3D point cloud) is generally not feasible, as these formats serve entirely different purposes: one is for video playback, the other for 3D data. If you are looking to extract frames from an MVE video and convert them into a 3D point cloud (RVL), you would need to:

• Extract frames from the MVE file as images.
• Use photogrammetry software to reconstruct a 3D model from the images.
• Export the resulting 3D model or point cloud in the RVL format.

Recommended software for conversion

For this multi-step process, consider the following tools:

• FFmpeg: To extract frames from the MVE file. Use the command line: ffmpeg -i input.mve frame_%04d.png
• Meshroom or Agisoft Metashape: For photogrammetry to create a 3D model from the extracted images.
• CloudCompare: To convert the 3D model or point cloud to the RVL format, if supported. Use File → Export and select RVL if available.

Note: If your RVL format is specific to a certain application, ensure compatibility before exporting.

Summary

While there is no direct one-step converter from MVE to RVL, you can achieve the conversion through a series of steps involving frame extraction, photogrammetry, and point cloud export. FFmpeg, Meshroom, and CloudCompare are recommended tools for this workflow.