Sharing large files is never easy. But cloud technology makes it possible to by-pass the issue altogether. Fundamentally, the best way to share point cloud files is to share access to files that never actually go anywhere.
Although an agile cloud-based approach is not always possible, it should be your long-term goal. Developments in cloud computing, cloud-based point cloud registration software, and network infrastructure are all driving a ‘cloud revolution’ in surveying and reality capture technology. If you're interested in the strategic details, check out our free eBook — Are You Ready for the Cloud?
Here, we are going to look at two things. First, we’ll provide context on traditional ways to share standard point cloud files. Second, we’ll explain the foundations of building a cloud-enabled system and highlight the benefits that come with that approach.
Let’s start by addressing some of the fundamentals when sharing files.
Not all point cloud data is the same, or is intended for the same recipient. You will need to consider carefully:
What do you want to share?
There are many file formats used to store point cloud information, and each one has particular strengths and weaknesses depending on the method of capture, software used, computing hardware, and more. Being aware of what the capabilities and expectations are at the other end of the transfer could save a great deal of time and bandwidth.
You need full control over how you share files and with whom. You need to be able to set variable permissions for access to folders and individual files. Consider the encryption standards you may need to use.
Look at services available through the lens of reliability, safety and the amount of storage needed.
Examples include memory sticks, optical discs, memory cards and removable hard disks. You move or insert files from your equipment onto the removable storage device and then physically hand it over, or put it in the post.
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FTP has been around for years and has been a standard method for moving large files between computer systems. It was also a way of getting around the file size limitations on email attachments.
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If you want something quick and convenient to get a file from one place to another, you could consider basic file transfer services such as WeTransfer or Dropbox.
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Each of these traditional methods of file sharing have their place. Particularly for providing one-off access, files share services are a handy and quick option. However, when it comes to accommodating remote workflows, integrating data streams within wider projects, and building flexible options around access, all of these solutions present challenges. Ultimately, a fully cloud-based option is the more agile choice — and one that brings additional benefits as well.
The second option is to move into the cloud. Some file sharing services (e.g. Dropbox) allow you to provide cloud-based access to files that can be viewed without downloading. When it comes to end-product deliverables (3D models), this is a workable solution. However, this won't work with un-registered data sets if you want to avoid regular uploads and downloads.
To really move beyond file sharing requires moving the entire point cloud creation process into the cloud. The big stumbling block here is point cloud registration. However, this is also an area where cloud-technology can provide significant advantages.
Full disclosure: our company (Correvate) has pioneered the development of cloud-based point cloud registration software. We aren't the only company delivering cloud-based solutions. However, Vercator deploys an important new registration algorithm powered by a multi-stage, vector-based registration process able to align targetless point cloud scans without the need for manual oversight. This automation allows Vercator to take full advantage of the scalability of cloud computing power to parallelise registration and dramatically accelerate the time-frames involved in processing large point cloud data sets.
Within that context, with everything in the cloud, multi-processor, multi-threaded processing can be undertaken with ease.
This delivers:
Of course, all this is only possible with:
File sharing is a rudimentary prerequisite of collaboration. But true collaboration goes further and brings broader benefits. Taking advantage of these changes requires just as many process updates as technological investments. Collaborative outcomes allow:
A collaborative approach means not only having a place to safely store your files online, but also having document storage to allow you to share those with other users.
For a project based on Building Information Management (BIM), the Common Data Environment (CDE) is where project data is stored, i.e., documents, plans, models, calculations, contracts, or standards.
Cloud solutions for CDEs are becoming the norm. Such solutions are safer than generic cloud storage, give more freedom and offer possibilities that shared file services do not have (e.g. opening 3D models in a browser without using any special software).
The CDE connects project teams and data and covers every aspect from design through construction, supporting decision-making and more predictable and profitable outcomes. It’s intended to provide:
Traditional laser scanner and CAD software vendors are already offering tools which are taking the role of a CDE on projects. Some examples include:
It’s still early days, and a CDE may not actually end up being a single technology or platform. It’s more likely to become a combination of tools and workflows based around the vast store of data associated with a project.
Surveyors wear many hats (not all of them hard) including subject experts, communicators and analysts. These tasks can never be automated out of existence. However, cloud software can automate time-consuming aspects of the profession and allow surveyors to expand their roles.
By adopting the cloud as a means of sharing files, surveyors are creating vast potential to improve quality and save time. Cloud adoption also places them at the centre of this cloud-led transformation. In order to match the pace of change, surveyors need to keep learning and think creatively about how their processes can update to align with new technological possibilities.
Further reading suggestions: