View Point Clouds Without Installation! LRTK Cloud Beginner's Guide

Table of Contents

• What is point cloud data? Why viewing is important

• Challenges of using dedicated software

• Advantages of viewing point clouds in a browser

• What is LRTK Cloud?

• Basic workflow of LRTK Cloud

• Cloud security and access management

• Simple surveying with LRTK

• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

In recent years, opportunities to work with 3D point cloud data have increased in construction, civil engineering, and surveying sites. Point cloud data, which can record detailed shapes of terrain and structures by acquiring large numbers of measurement points with laser scanners, drones, or smartphone-mounted LiDAR, is an indispensable information resource for driving on-site digitalization (DX). The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism–led *i-Construction* initiative also encourages the use of digital data such as 3D point clouds, and the use of point clouds is expected across a variety of applications including as-built management, earthwork volume calculation, and displacement monitoring. On the other hand, there are many voices such as “Even though we measured point clouds, we can’t make good use of them” and “We don’t have dedicated software so we can’t check them on site.” In practice, there are several hurdles to making point cloud data useful in field operations, and collected data has sometimes gone unused. It is therefore important to break this situation and create an environment where anyone can easily view and share point clouds. A notable solution for achieving this is a cloud-based point cloud viewer that can be used without installation. This article explains for beginners what point cloud data is, the traditional challenges and benefits of cloud use, and how to use the cloud point cloud viewer “LRTK Cloud.”

What is point cloud data? Why viewing is important

Point cloud data is 3D data composed of countless points (coordinates) that make up the surface of an object or terrain. Each point has XYZ coordinates (and sometimes color or return intensity information), and the collection of points can represent an object's shape in detail. For example, when a laser scanner measures terrain, it records the shape as a collection of millions of points indicating positions on the ground and structures. Because point clouds can digitally capture the site “as it is,” they are utilized in many areas of construction and surveying work—such as as-built (post-construction) management, earthwork/volume and quantity calculations, displacement measurement, and construction planning simulations.

However, to truly leverage point cloud data in operations, an environment that allows proper “viewing” is indispensable. Because point clouds are enormous collections of points, simply having files is meaningless. Only by visualizing the point cloud obtained on site in a 3D viewer, measuring necessary dimensions, and checking cross-sections can practically useful insights be obtained. In other words, the ability for anyone to easily view and analyze point clouds is what leads to successful on-site DX. To extract the value of point cloud data itself, it is important to provide a means to “view point clouds smoothly anytime, anywhere.”

Challenges of using dedicated software

That said, there have been many challenges in establishing an environment to “view and utilize point clouds.” First is the barrier of dedicated software and hardware. Displaying and editing point clouds required powerful point cloud processing software or CAD software, which tends to be expensive and requires specialized knowledge and experience to operate. For small- and medium-sized enterprises and beginners, the cost of introduction and the learning curve were high, causing point cloud data to be seen as difficult. In addition, point cloud datasets can range from millions to hundreds of millions of points and file sizes from several GB to tens of GB, so a workstation-class high-performance PC was almost essential to handle them. It is not uncommon for a regular office PC to freeze when attempting to open a large point cloud. Thus, the combined burden of dedicated software + high-spec PC was a major obstacle to point cloud utilization.

Second, there was also the challenge of data sharing and timely utilization. Traditionally, point cloud data collected on site would be taken back to the office on a USB stick or external HDD, processed and analyzed on limited high-performance PCs, and the results compiled into drawings or reports to share with stakeholders. This workflow introduces a time lag before the 3D information obtained on site can be used. You might discover only after returning to the office that “the necessary area wasn’t sufficiently captured” and need to revisit the site, causing rework. Repeated copying and distribution of huge point cloud files also complicates version control—questions like “Which is the latest?” or “How far has processing progressed?” lead to confusion and the need to resend files each update, making it hard to share and utilize digital data among all stakeholders. Traditional workflows that separate the site and headquarters/offices made real-time collaboration difficult and prevented point cloud data from reaching its full potential.

Advantages of viewing point clouds in a browser

A revolutionary way to lower the above barriers to point cloud utilization is to use a viewer that can display and share point cloud data in a web browser. With any internet-connected PC or tablet, you can view point clouds via a browser without installing dedicated software, allowing immediate 3D data checks both onsite and in the office. Using a browser point cloud viewer offers the following benefits:

• No software installation required: As long as you have internet access and a web browser, you can use it from anywhere without complicated installation procedures or license management on your PC. You can access it from desktops, tablets, or smartphones. Even if you don’t have administrator rights on a site PC and can’t install software, accessing via a browser works fine.

• High-performance PC not required: Because storage and rendering are handled on the cloud side, your local device won’t be burdened even with large datasets. Even for massive point clouds of tens of millions of points, once uploaded to the cloud you can smoothly view and measure them in the browser. Typical notebooks and mobile devices can handle large point clouds without stress, enabling analyses that previously required high-spec machines.

• Always share the latest data: With data in the cloud, everyone involved can access the same latest point cloud. No more struggles with file transfers or version control, and no need for email attachments or USB handoffs. Sharing a URL link is enough for remote members to view and review 3D data in real time. Sharing a single “source of truth” reduces communication loss and speeds decision-making.

• Intuitive operability: Browser-based navigation enables intuitive 3D control via mouse drag and wheel, or pinch gestures on touch panels. Even those unfamiliar with specialized software can move through 3D space as if using a game or map app. With no complex commands to learn, beginners can easily handle point clouds, making it accessible for anyone in the company.

• Immediate feedback: You can check point clouds in the browser immediately without launching specialized software, allowing on-the-spot quality checks and additional measurements after data collection. For example, measurement omissions that used to be noticed only after returning to the office can be discovered on site with browser viewing, and additional scans can be made immediately to prevent rework. Because the cycle from point cloud acquisition to utilization can be completed the same day, data usage need not be abandoned even under tight schedules.

By handling point clouds in the browser, the effort of setting up specialized environments and constraints of location and equipment are greatly reduced, dramatically improving the speed and efficiency of point cloud data utilization.

What is LRTK Cloud?

Among these cloud-based point cloud viewers, “LRTK Cloud” is especially developed with a focus on construction and surveying field operations. LRTK Cloud provides a platform to upload various data collected on site to the cloud and display and analyze it in a web browser. No dedicated software is required; simply access the LRTK Cloud web app via the internet to 3D-display and measure your point cloud data.

LRTK Cloud makes possible point cloud utilization that used to require expensive software and special equipment using just your PC or tablet. Upload point cloud data obtained with a smartphone or drone from the field to your organization’s cloud storage, and an optimized 3D viewer will automatically launch in the browser. The cloud also includes functions to measure distance, area, and volume, so you can obtain needed information without relying on additional analysis software. With many practical features developed from on-site experience, it is designed as a point cloud utilization platform that is easy to use for everyone from field staff to management.

Basic workflow of LRTK Cloud

Let’s look at a typical workflow when actually using LRTK Cloud.

• Data acquisition and upload: First, acquire point cloud data—by laser scanner, drone, or smartphone LiDAR scanning; the method does not matter. After data acquisition, upload it to LRTK Cloud. You can drag & drop files from the dedicated upload screen or sync to the cloud with one tap from the LRTK smartphone app. Once upload is complete, data is stored in secure cloud storage, and you may delete raw data from your phone or tablet if no longer needed.

• Automatic processing and 3D rendering in the cloud: Uploaded point cloud data is automatically processed and optimized in the cloud, and after a few minutes a 3D model will be available for display on the web. Complicated tasks like registration and noise removal are automatically executed in the cloud, so users need not be concerned. Log in to LRTK Cloud via a web browser and select the dataset to launch an interactive 3D viewer. You can freely change viewpoints with mouse or touch controls to observe the site in three dimensions. Heavy processing is handled server-side, so the viewer runs smoothly on local PCs and tablets and large point clouds can be viewed without issue.

• Measurements and analysis in the browser: The LRTK Cloud viewer includes various measurement and analysis tools. Basic functions such as measuring the distance between two points, checking the height at arbitrary locations, calculating the area of a drawn region, and computing earthwork (volume) from point clouds are all available, allowing you to obtain required information entirely within the browser. Tasks like measuring dimensions between points and adding annotations, or calculating cut-and-fill volumes for earthwork management, can be completed on the cloud without transferring data to separate software. You can also save measurement results with comments or marks and take screenshots for inclusion in reports. The UI is easy to use even without specialized CAD knowledge, so field personnel can quickly obtain the numbers they need.

• Data sharing and collaboration: With point cloud data in the cloud, sharing information and collaborating becomes much easier. Multiple team members at remote locations can access the same 3D point cloud model from their own PCs or tablets to view and discuss it simultaneously. For example, field staff and office managers can look at the same area on their screens and exchange real-time feedback such as “There’s a step here” or “Let’s adjust the finish.” Situations that were difficult to convey with photos or drawings alone are easier for all stakeholders to understand by sharing immersive 3D point cloud data. Instead of emailing large files, sharing cloud links ensures everyone accesses the latest version and prevents mistakes from version mismatches. Access permissions can be set per user, so you can control who in the team can view or edit data. This kind of real-time sharing and access management smooths collaboration both inside and outside the company and leads to faster decision-making and improved operational efficiency.

Cloud security and access management

When entrusting data to the cloud, you may wonder, “Is the security OK?” LRTK Cloud gives sufficient consideration to data confidentiality and safety. Uploaded point cloud data is stored in an encrypted, secure cloud environment to minimize the risk of unauthorized access or information leakage. You can also set strict access permissions per user or project so that only authorized members can view or operate the data. If your company policy or privacy concerns make public cloud use uneasy, appropriate measures can be provided through individual consultation.

Additionally, as a cloud service, LRTK Cloud always has the latest version applied, so users do not need to worry about updating software or applying security patches. In the past, each PC had to be updated to ensure the latest features and vulnerability fixes, but with cloud usage this concern is eliminated and you can always use an optimal environment. With robust security measures and convenience, LRTK Cloud allows you to safely entrust and collaboratively use important project data.

Simple surveying with LRTK

With the advent of browser point cloud viewers, workflows that “obtain point cloud data and immediately use it” are becoming more accessible. This also means we are entering an era where anyone can perform simple 3D surveying without specialized knowledge or heavy surveying equipment. LRTK actually provides solutions that enable high-accuracy point cloud acquisition using familiar devices without expensive gear like laser scanners. For example, recent smartphones and tablets are equipped with LiDAR sensors and high-performance cameras, allowing you to walk around a site and capture surrounding 3D point cloud data. Furthermore, by combining a smartphone app called LRTK Phone with a small GNSS positioning device, you can assign centimeter-level absolute coordinates (half-inch accuracy) from a ground control RTK to the measured point cloud. This enables high-accuracy 3D surveying that previously required surveying specialists or costly equipment to be performed easily by on-site personnel.

Point cloud data obtained in this way is uploaded and processed immediately on LRTK Cloud. Because the wait time from measurement to cloud visualization is minimized, the speed at which results can be confirmed on site increases dramatically. For example, in one case a staff member walked around a site for about five minutes with a smartphone and captured a point cloud of terrain covering several tens of meters square, then used the automatically generated 3D model in the cloud to calculate required dimensions and volumes on the spot and complete rework and report creation the same day. A sequence of tasks that used to take days to weeks was completed in under half a day. This rapid PDCA cycle is a major strength of LRTK’s simple surveying.

Because it is easy to acquire high-accuracy 3D data, small businesses and local governments that previously had no connection to point cloud measurement are beginning to adopt LRTK-based simple surveying for infrastructure inspection and maintenance management. As on-site DX accelerates, the combination of a browser-based point cloud viewer and smartphone surveying will likely become a new standard. If you face challenges in utilizing point cloud data, try simple surveying using LRTK Cloud and a smartphone. LRTK, which requires no dedicated software and is easy to start, will surely dramatically improve productivity in your field operations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What devices and environments can I use LRTK Cloud on? A: You can use it from PCs such as Windows and Mac, as well as from tablets and smartphones. It runs on major web browsers like Chrome and Edge, and there is no need to install a dedicated app. However, because it is a cloud service, an internet connection is required.

Q: What point cloud data formats does LRTK Cloud support? A: It supports a wide range of standard point cloud file formats. For example, LAS/LAZ, PLY, XYZ, PCD, and other formats output by many measurement devices and software can be imported and displayed in 3D as-is. Data containing color or normal information can also be displayed without issue.

Q: Can it be used without specialized knowledge? A: Yes. LRTK Cloud is designed for intuitive operation so that people without surveying or CAD expertise can use it. Data upload and basic measurements can be executed easily by following on-screen guidance, and complex tasks such as point cloud registration are automated on the cloud side. If you are unsure about operations, comprehensive support and manuals are available to help you learn smoothly.

Q: What measurements can I perform with LRTK Cloud? A: It includes basic measurement functions such as distance and height measurement, area and volume calculation. You can measure dimensions between points, check the area of a specified region, and calculate earthwork volumes—all within the browser without switching to special software. Measurement results can be annotated and saved, and screenshots can be used in reports. More advanced analysis features are being added to the cloud progressively, so capabilities will continue to expand.

Q: How do I get started with LRTK Cloud? A: Contact LRTK via their official website, and a representative can provide detailed service information and a demo environment. Since it is a cloud service, initial setup is easy, and you can start using it soon after an account is issued. Please feel free to inquire about pricing plans and specific usage.

Q: Is the security of point cloud data uploaded to LRTK Cloud assured? A: Yes. LRTK Cloud takes comprehensive measures to ensure data security. Uploaded data is stored in a highly encrypted cloud environment to reduce the risk of unauthorized access. Access permissions can be set per user so that only authorized members can access the data. If your company policy raises concerns about cloud use, we can discuss flexible solutions.

Q: What are LRTK Cloud’s strengths compared to other free point cloud viewers? A: LRTK Cloud is a professional platform designed for practical use in the field. It does more than just display point clouds: it includes functions directly relevant to fieldwork, such as surveying measurements, comparison with design data, and smartphone-based AR guidance for stakeout, among others. Free viewers often limit you to viewing, but LRTK Cloud handles everything from data acquisition to analysis and sharing, reducing the need for additional software or manual work. LRTK’s strengths also include proven reliability from numerous industry deployments and a support team of experts. If you seriously want to advance point cloud utilization in your operations, LRTK Cloud, which offers an all-in-one efficiency boost, is an excellent choice.

Conclusion

By using LRTK Cloud, which is easy to use without installation, the previously high barriers to sharing and utilizing point cloud data become surprisingly accessible. End-to-end data utilization—from the field to remote offices—becomes possible, dramatically improving the efficiency of surveying and construction management. If you feel any challenges in utilizing point cloud data, please try LRTK Cloud. For more information or to request a demo, feel free to contact LRTK via their official website or inquiry desk. Use LRTK Cloud to evolve your sites to the next stage!