@michigan-left we receive all of our project control, CAD files, linework, etc. in state plane coordinates. I’ve been with this company for two years now and being that I am from a completely different field the only training I’ve had is what I’ve been taught to do from my supervisor. As far as I know, we have never received job files/control that weren’t in SPC. However, we’ve always never used geoids/SPC/datum.
I got the geoid files from topcon support just yesterday and intend to use the recommended coordinate system settings (SPC83-MD/NAD83_NO_TRANS/g2018u8) to setup on a small job we will be using in the near future.
But as I mentioned before, I don't envision switching to this method as the order of operations for GPS setup on jobs has likely been this way since they first got these systems in 2001. However, I enjoy learning more about this software and how I can use it to make my job easier/more accurate.
I would have to believe that most of the reasoning behind the process we use is for machine control. At any one point in time on our jobs we typically have at least one base/rover running, several 3DMC equipped machines, and sometimes even MMgps. I know we will not change the localization process, even if I explain that the state plane coordinate system is accurate. It’s just as easy for us to localize on our data collector, export the project file and throw it into all the machines on site.
It is interesting to me that we essentially wouldn’t have to localize, rather just start our base on a random point and then check in to the provided control, shoot the point we intend to use as a base and go.
No you can't set your base on a random point and check into the provided control, you would need to set on the provided control and check into other provided control.
Your last couple of replies illustrate my last comment perfectly.
Maybe some day you should consider coming over to the survey side of things.
We could use some willing to learn thinkers like you.
Welcome to the forum.
@mightymoe apologies I think mixed up the process with how we were just taught to localize. So if using the SPC, I’d setup on one of the control points, check in to the other points provided. Could I then set a new base point (typically we use rebar/cap) to use for subsequent setup so I don’t have to use the provided control…? I believe the issue here is we have jobs that require a supervisor to setup his base on a daily basis and often times the provided control is not in the most ideal position for this.
@mightymoe apologies I think mixed up the process with how we were just taught to localize. So if using the SPC, I’d setup on one of the control points, check in to the other points provided. Could I then set a new base point (typically we use rebar/cap) to use for subsequent setup so I don’t have to use the provided control…? I believe the issue here is we have jobs that require a supervisor to setup his base on a daily basis and often times the provided control is not in the most ideal position for this.
Yes, you can do it that way, however, there are routines in Magnet I believe that allows you to set up on a remote point, tie control and calculate were the base is respective to the provided control. The rover becomes the "base" and the base becomes the "rover". Thus saving a set-up. Just understand that the projection doesn't change, there is no calibration to the control.
@mightymoe yes you are correct. I believe that is in the “correct base” menu.
Do you know what you have when you localize to state plane control? State plane coordinates with a little slop added. If accuracy is the concern nothing like adding a little slop from the get go. Btw I wouldn't recommend putting your base out on a random point. Use a known point.
Do you know what you have when you localize to state plane control? State plane coordinates with a little slop added. If accuracy is the concern nothing like adding a little slop from the get go. Btw I wouldn't recommend putting your base out on a random point. Use a known point.
I believe they need to do it. Much like the construction company building the bank next to our office, they have a point set-up on a position they could use permanently. Our points ended up being "compromised" by location, so they picked one that would be undisturbed throughout the construction phase. Seems like it might take 2-3 years the way it's going.
I'm so on-board with machine control, it's one of the best things to happen to surveying.
Yes, I wasn't referring to placing a point where its needed. I was referring to placing the base on a random location before you have determined its position. (just to be clear)