Skycatch makes it easy to localize your data into your local coordinate system.

A coordinate system is a reference system that uses numbers (coordinates) to define locations on a surface.

Many sites operate using a local (aka arbitrary) coordinate system, which is when a project uses its coordinates according to a chosen point of origin.

This is usually more precise than using a global coordinate system that bases its origin on the center of the earth.

Why Use a Local Coordinate System?

Using a drone data system that supports local coordinates results in:

• More accurate placement of data and overlays
• Everything that is constructed is related to a fixed common reference
• Ensures all construction on the project “fits” together
• Prevents costly mistakes

How it Works

First, Edge1 processes the data in a global coordinate system. By default, Edge1 delivers in UTM.

This localization feature can take that UTM point cloud and transform it into your site coordinate system. To do this, we need at least 4 pairs of points that are defined in both global and local coordinate systems.

A localization file describes the transformation from a global coordinate system to your local coordinate system. All the points will be held in vertical and horizontal control.

Step 1: Create Your Localization File

There are 2 ways to get your localization file:

1. Export your localization file from your base station
   • If using a 3D office, follow instructions for FAQ: How To Export Control Points From Topcon 3D Office?
   • If using Trimble Business Center, follow instructions for FAQ: How To Export Control Points From Trimble Business Center?
   • If using any other base station, see your base station manual for instructions on exporting control points
2. Create a localization file manually

Step 2: Copy localization file into SD card

Ensure that there is only one file named localization.csv on the SD card and that the localization file is on the main page of the SD card, not in a folder.

The file should look like this:

Step 3: Insert SD card into Edge1

Ensure that your SD card is inserted into Edge1 to enable the localization feature. If you import a new dataset and want to apply the localization you just created, leave the SD card inserted.

⚠ Warning: Do NOT tap EJECT after the import is completed. The SD card must be mounted until processing has started for this feature to be enabled. Once processing has started you are free to unmount the SD card.

Step 4: Set up a new processing job

• Tap PROCESS on the dataset you want to process. When the processing window pops up, select quality, density and desired output files as you usually do.
• When the SD card with your localization file is detected, a dropdown will be displayed. Skip selecting EPSG code or Geoid and select your localization file from the Custom Local Coordinate System dropdown menu:

• An accurate localization file will display the residual table without warnings:

If any residuals are over too high (over 5 cm) they will be displayed in yellow:

If your table has high residuals, please double-check that all coordinates are entered correctly in your localization file.

Once your table is correct, tap START PROCESSING.

Step 5: Process a job

You can track the progress of your processing job and confirm localization by checking the EPSG type in the processing job details:

 

 

Step 6: Export localized data files

• After processing is complete, tap EXPORT to export the files as usual.
• Once data has been exported, return to the Data Processing screen and eject the storage media.
  

Localization Troubleshooting and Notes