Table of contents

• What is point cloud data?

• Challenges of sharing point cloud data

• Benefits of sharing point cloud data via URL

• What is LRTK? A point cloud surveying tool completed with a smartphone

• URL sharing of point cloud data enabled by LRTK

• Benefits and use cases of LRTK

• LRTK is also useful for simple surveying on site

• Conclusion

• FAQ

What is point cloud data?

Point cloud data refers to three-dimensional data that represents an object or terrain as a collection of countless points (a point cloud). Each point includes X, Y, and Z coordinates (positional information), and the collection of points can capture the shape of objects and terrain in detail. Point cloud data is acquired using laser scanners, LiDAR, photogrammetry, and other methods, and in recent years it has been increasingly used across a wide range of fields, from surveying in construction and civil engineering to manufacturing and cultural heritage documentation.

The advantage of point cloud data is that it can measure wide areas at high density all at once. Rather than measuring one point at a time as in traditional methods, it acquires surface information from laser or photos, allowing you to collect a vast number of points in a short time and record an entire site. It also enables safe, non-contact measurement of hazardous areas where people cannot enter. After acquisition, you can slice arbitrary cross-sections on a computer or measure distances and areas, preventing situations where “we forgot to measure that part.” As a detailed and intuitive 3D data format, point clouds are extremely useful, but to realize their full value, smooth data sharing is indispensable. If the latest point cloud data can be shared from the site with stakeholders immediately, the current state can be reviewed in 3D from remote locations and discussed, dramatically improving operational efficiency and accuracy.

Challenges of sharing point cloud data

However, when attempting to share point cloud data with others, various challenges arise. The main issues include the following:

• Very large file sizes: Because point cloud data is highly detailed, it tends to be large. The number of scanned points can range from millions to hundreds of millions, and file sizes from several hundred MB to several GB are not uncommon. Such large files take time to upload and download, whether sent by email or shared via cloud storage. In environments with slow internet connections, transmission can take hours, which may not meet the needs of sites that need to share information quickly.

• Specialized formats and viewer software required: Point cloud data is generally saved in specialized formats such as LAS, PLY, or E57. If the recipient does not have a dedicated viewer that supports those formats, they cannot open or use the data. High-performance point cloud processing software is often paid or complex to operate, so it is not always an environment that everyone can use easily. In addition, handling high-resolution point clouds may require a high-performance PC, so viewing depends on the recipient’s environment.

• Sharing is cumbersome: Methods such as uploading files to online storage and sharing links are possible, but the procedures can be complicated and are often avoided. While spending time transferring data and organizing folders, people often default to “let’s just send photos for now,” and the 3D point cloud data collected ends up not being fully utilized. Even if a file is shared once, subsequent corrections or additional measurements frequently result in the latest version not reaching all stakeholders.

Because of issues such as data size, viewing environment, and procedural complexity, the barrier to smooth sharing of point cloud data has been high. Valuable 3D information obtained on site has often been difficult to share internally and externally and has not been fully leveraged.

Benefits of sharing point cloud data via URL

One approach attracting attention is sharing point cloud data via a URL. This involves uploading point cloud data to the cloud, making it viewable in a web browser, and then sending the URL of that viewing page to others. Recipients can click the link to launch a 3D point cloud viewer in their browser and view the data without special software. This method offers several advantages.

• Viewable by anyone without software: Since recipients only need to open the link, they do not need to install any dedicated software. As long as they have a web browser, PC, tablet, or smartphone can display the 3D point cloud. Because it does not depend on the recipient’s environment, customers who are not technically inclined or colleagues in different departments can easily view 3D data.

• Simple and fast distribution: Sharing requires sending just one URL via email or chat, which is overwhelmingly simpler than distributing large files to many people. If the cloud always holds the latest data, there is no need to send individual files to each stakeholder. Everyone referring to the same link ensures centralized sharing of the latest information, reducing concerns about different file versions or missed deliveries.

• No need for a high-performance PC: Because rendering and processing are optimized on the cloud side, recipients can smoothly view 3D data even without high-spec machines. Scenes that previously required workstation-class PCs to handle dense point clouds can be viewed on ordinary office laptops or tablets when shared via URL. Additionally, because data is exchanged via the cloud, risks associated with handing over USB flash drives or taking data off-site are avoided, providing security benefits.

• Interactive information sharing: Cloud-based point cloud viewers may be equipped not only for viewing but also with measurement tools and commenting functions. Recipients of a shared link can directly measure distances in the 3D viewer, place markers, or leave text comments on important points. Because everyone can communicate interactively while viewing the same 3D data, information that is hard to convey by words or photos becomes easier to share. With everyone sharing a common understanding on the 3D model, mistakes due to misunderstandings can be reduced.

As described above, the “upload the data and send the link” approach to URL sharing is an effective means of significantly lowering the hurdles to sharing heavy point cloud data. So how can such convenient sharing be implemented in practice?

What is LRTK? A point cloud surveying tool completed with a smartphone

To make the most of URL sharing of point cloud data, it is important to be able to easily acquire high-quality point cloud data. Enter LRTK, a solution designed to do just that. LRTK consists of a smartphone, a compact positioning device, and a dedicated app, and is an all-purpose surveying tool designed to enable anyone to perform high-precision point cloud surveying easily.

With LRTK, a dedicated ultra-compact GNSS receiver is attached to an iPhone or other smartphone and used in combination with the smartphone’s built-in LiDAR scanner. The GNSS receiver supports real-time kinematic (RTK) positioning, enabling centimeter-level positioning accuracy (cm level accuracy (half-inch accuracy)) even with a smartphone. By using that high-precision positional information, absolute coordinates in a global coordinate system can be assigned to each point scanned by the smartphone, so the resulting point cloud data attains survey-grade accuracy. Precision surveying that once required expensive laser scanners and specialized equipment can now be completed with palm-sized equipment and a smartphone using LRTK.

Actual usage is simple. Attach the LRTK GNSS device to the smartphone, launch the dedicated app, and start scanning. Then just walk around the area you want to measure; the smartphone automatically acquires surrounding point cloud data. For example, for a medium-sized construction site, a complete scan can be finished by walking around for just a few minutes. No special操作 or advanced knowledge are required, and the system is designed so that site workers can intuitively use it. The range of point cloud capture extends roughly 50-60 m (164.0-196.9 ft), allowing you to thoroughly record everything from terrain to structural details.

Thus, with LRTK you can capture precise 3D point clouds using only a smartphone, but what’s even more important is how the acquired data is used afterward. LRTK integrates with cloud services and includes a mechanism to upload and share measured data immediately after measurement.

URL sharing of point cloud data enabled by LRTK

Point cloud data acquired with LRTK can be synchronized to the cloud on site and a shareable link can be issued. Being able to share the latest scan from the field with the office or clients instantly is a major advantage. Here is an example of the specific steps.

• Completion of point cloud scanning: After finishing point cloud measurement with the LRTK app on your smartphone, save the measurement data to the device.

• Upload to the cloud: Tap the “sync” button in the app to upload the acquired point cloud data to the dedicated cloud. Large point cloud files can be sent with a single tap, and are automatically converted and stored in an optimal format on the cloud.

• Issue a sharing URL: After the upload completes, a unique URL that grants access to the corresponding data on the cloud is issued. The link is displayed in the app screen and can be copied with one tap.

• Share with stakeholders: Send the issued URL to the intended recipients via email or chat. Managers or clients away from the site can click the URL to view the 3D point cloud.

With these steps, LRTK allows you to obtain point clouds on site and share them with stakeholders within minutes. Recipients can use the browser-based viewer that launches automatically to reproduce almost the same 3D view as the sender and check the data. No special software or hardware is required. Even partners or clients outside the organization can view the same data if they know the URL, even if they do not have an LRTK account, greatly accelerating communication. Because data is stored securely in the cloud, risks such as lost USB flash drives or mis-sent emails are also reduced.

Benefits and use cases of LRTK

Introducing LRTK streamlines the entire process from point cloud acquisition to sharing, which is a major advantage. Below are the main benefits of using LRTK and the scenarios where it proves most useful.

Main benefits of adopting LRTK:

• Rapid information sharing: Processes that traditionally took days to weeks from on-site surveying to drawing and data distribution can be completed the same day with LRTK. Because point clouds can be synced to the cloud and shared via URL immediately after acquisition, near-real-time information sharing between the field and the office becomes possible.

• Labor savings and cost reduction: Since surveying can be completed with just a smartphone and LRTK device, expensive equipment rental or hiring specialized surveying contractors is unnecessary. Transporting equipment and coordinating personnel costs can be reduced. Sharing deliverables via the cloud also reduces paper drawings and USB handovers, simplifying procedures.

• Easy operation for anyone: The intuitive dedicated app enables people without specialist knowledge to operate the system, allowing site workers themselves to perform point cloud measurements and share data immediately. There are reported cases where site staff could use LRTK without prior training. Ease of use is a key factor in promoting on-site digitalization (ICT).

• High-precision, high-quality surveying: GNSS plus LiDAR yields positioning accuracy on the order of several centimeters (cm level accuracy (half-inch accuracy)), and high point density captures fine details. Corrections and verifications using known control points are possible if needed, ensuring sufficient accuracy for public works as-built management. Being able to quickly share such reliable data enables stakeholders to discuss and make decisions based on solid information.

• Multipurpose use of data: Once point cloud data is acquired, it can be used in various ways on the cloud. For example, you can automatically generate a 3D mesh model from the point cloud and perform difference comparisons with design data, or upload DWG drawings and overlay them on site using the smartphone’s AR functions. These processes can be handled entirely on the LRTK cloud platform, eliminating the need to move data to other software.

Expected use cases:

• Sharing construction progress: After each construction stage, scan the site and share the URL link with the client or head office staff so they can check progress in 3D from remote locations. Point clouds clearly show details that photos or text cannot, making it easier to align understanding among stakeholders.

• As-built inspection and quality checks: Measurement results based on as-built management guidelines can be shared on the cloud immediately, allowing distant inspectors to make pass/fail judgments in near real time. Overlaying drawings with point clouds to check quality and promptly providing feedback to the site if defects are found is possible.

• Recording and sharing disaster sites: In emergencies such as landslides or accident scenes, LRTK can quickly record the situation in 3D and share it with headquarters or support teams. Using shared point clouds, relevant parties can assess and discuss damage, speeding up initial response.

• Maintenance of infrastructure: During regular inspections of plant equipment or bridges, recording the current condition with point clouds and sharing with relevant departments enables remote experts to understand the situation from their offices. Comparing with previously acquired point clouds to discuss deterioration can aid in planning maintenance strategies.

LRTK is also useful for simple surveying on site

So far we have discussed point cloud acquisition and cloud sharing with LRTK. But LRTK’s benefits on site extend further. LRTK is powerful for “simple surveying,” situations where you want to quickly measure a dimension or volume on the spot.

For example, suppose someone at a site suddenly needs to know “the area of this section” or “the volume of this embankment.” Traditionally, this would require fetching a tape measure or calling a specialized surveying team, costing time and effort. With LRTK, you can quickly scan the area with a smartphone and obtain the latest 3D data. Upload it to the cloud and use built-in measurement functions to measure distances, areas, and volumes to get the required numbers immediately. Calculating the volume of an embankment on site can be done quickly, allowing immediate reflection in earthwork quantity management and estimating.

LRTK also features AR display functions using the acquired point cloud data. For example, if you record buried pipes in the point cloud before paving, you can later use the smartphone’s AR to display them transparently after paving, accurately identifying the underground pipe locations without excavation. This enables safer planning of future excavation work by avoiding buried utilities. In this way, LRTK supports a wide range of on-site tasks, from quick everyday measurements to advanced AR applications.

Conclusion

To the question “How should point cloud data be shared?” this article has thoroughly explained the solution of “sharing via URL” and how to utilize the LRTK cloud to achieve it. Even for large, specialized point cloud data, LRTK enables precise measurement with just a smartphone, uploading to the cloud, and then sharing smoothly with stakeholders simply by sending a URL link. Recipients can display the data in a browser without special software, dramatically improving information sharing with internal and external parties.

LRTK revolutionizes the time-consuming and labor-intensive processes of surveying, inspection, and data sharing. Being able to instantly convert necessary on-site information into 3D models and share them speeds up operations and accelerates consensus-building and decision-making among stakeholders. LRTK is one of the optimal solutions for the challenge of “point cloud sharing via URL.” Its ease of getting started with only a smartphone and a small device is also attractive, so consider experiencing this new surveying workflow.

FAQ

• Q: Is cloud necessary to share point cloud data? A: Traditionally, point cloud files could be handed over via USB flash drives or external hard drives. However, for smooth sharing, using the cloud is recommended. Especially with LRTK, cloud sync and URL sharing are standard features, allowing you to upload data and issue sharing links without extra effort. Using the cloud eliminates the need to copy files each time and provides the advantage of always being able to reference the latest data online.

• Q: How does someone who received a sharing link view the point cloud data? A: It’s very simple. Click the URL you received and a point cloud viewer will automatically launch in the web browser and display the data. The recipient does not need to install special software. Using mouse or touch operations in the browser, you can rotate, zoom, and change viewpoints to inspect the point cloud from various angles. With a supported browser, viewing is possible not only on PCs but also on smartphones and tablets.

• Q: How reliable is the accuracy of point cloud data acquired with LRTK? A: LRTK combines high-precision GNSS (RTK mode) positioning with the smartphone’s LiDAR sensor, ensuring centimeter-level positioning accuracy (cm level accuracy (half-inch accuracy)). Point cloud density is high and captures object shapes in detail. If necessary, accuracy can be adjusted and verified using known control points, achieving quality comparable to conventional terrestrial laser scanner surveys. There are cases where LRTK-acquired point clouds have been used in public works as-built inspections, demonstrating its reliability.

• Q: Can point cloud surveying really be done with just a smartphone? Is no additional equipment required? A: LRTK is a solution composed of a smartphone, a dedicated GNSS receiver, and an app. The GNSS receiver is a small, palm-sized device that can be attached to a smartphone, so it looks and feels like you are measuring with only a smartphone. Strictly speaking, a small device that attaches to the smartphone is used, but no large tripods or laptops are required. All components are battery-powered, enabling cable-free field operation. Its mobility makes it suitable for mountain areas or high places where bringing conventional equipment is difficult.

• Q: Can it be used in areas without cellular coverage? Can point clouds be acquired and shared offline in remote locations? A: LRTK supports Japan’s quasi-zenith satellite Michibiki (CLAS signals), enabling high-precision positioning even in areas without cellular coverage. Point cloud acquisition itself can be carried out in the field without an internet connection. Data obtained offline can be uploaded to the cloud and a sharing link issued later once you are back in an area with reception. In other words, you can measure in remote mountain areas and then share with stakeholders after returning to the office.

• Q: How do I adopt LRTK? A: LRTK is currently offered mainly to the surveying and construction industries. If you are interested, contact LRTK through the official website or via authorized resellers. You can inquire about detailed introduction procedures, pricing, and request demonstrations. This smartphone-based surveying workflow can deliver unprecedented efficiency—please feel free to contact us.