The Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism has published a collection of case studies for its "Project to Promote Efficient Construction Work Toward the Realization of Work Style Reform," and a case study on the implementation of the 3D scanning app " Scanat " was featured as a result of the model project.
Background and Challenges
In light of the overtime regulations for the construction industry that took effect in April 2024, the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism (MLIT) implemented a pilot project to promote efficient construction work as part of its efforts to achieve work-style reform. On March 24, 2025, a compilation of case studies summarizing the project’s results was published, and a case study on the implementation of the 3D scanning app Scanat was included as one of the project’s achievements.
Maintenance work on national highways requires a wide range of responses, from road patrols to repairs, snow removal, and emergency operations, whether for scheduled or unscheduled maintenance and repair projects. In particular, on-site inspections prior to construction and information sharing with the project contractor are essential. However, traditional methods presented the following challenges:
- - Effort required to assess site conditions: Taking measurements and photographs is time-consuming, and remeasurements are often necessary.
- - Increased travel time: I have to make multiple trips back and forth between the job site and the branch office to meet with the client.
To address these challenges, we partnered with Kotobuki Construction Co., Ltd.—a company specializing in tunnel construction, structural repairs, and general civil engineering—and our company, which provides the 3D scanning app " Scanat," to work on improving operational efficiency.
Initiatives and Implementation Results
- measures
Field staff carry iPads or iPhones Scanat installed, allowing them to quickly create 3D models whenever they need to assess the on-site situation.
We will utilize the acquired 3D models to share information with clients online. Our goal is to achieve significant time savings compared to existing measurement processes.
- Benefits of Implementation
(1) Reduction of working hours
On-site measurement time: 36 hours/month → 15 hours/month (approx. 58% reduction)
Eliminates measurement omissions and reduces the hassle of follow-up visits.
(2) Reducing travel time
By conducting online meetings using 3D models, we have reduced the number of on-site inspections with the client.
This eliminates the need for on-site visits to partner companies, reducing travel time.
(3) Improving operational accuracy
Measurements using 3D data enable the collection of consistent data that is not dependent on the operator’s experience.
We share 3D models during pre-project meetings to eliminate any misunderstandings among stakeholders.
*For details on the measures and their implementation results, Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Case Studies , pages 60–63.
Future Outlook
This initiative can be applied not only to national highway maintenance and repair projects but also to other fields such as structural renovation work on tunnels and infrastructure inspections. We will continue to strive for improved operational efficiency and quality through the promotion of digital transformation (DX) at construction sites.
