The Program allows the geometric Construction (CAD) and
Registration, Visualisation and Analysis of 2D Geo Data (GIS). It
saves these Data in a proprietary XML-based Format and
offers Import and Export Interfaces for usual
Data Formats/Specifications.
The Data Model was created based on the Primitives Point, (simple) Line and Area, so that different possibilities for using it, from a simple Viewer of CAD and Geo Data, via Surveyors Calculations and Attribute Data Regristration to Queries and Topological Analysis are possible. For Object Creation also Polylines (Multilines) are supported; Areas with Inner Boundaries ("Holes") are splitted into separated Objects, but these are marked as matching by an Identifier; Text Objects are treated as special Points.
For many Functionalities only minimum demands were implemented, to demonstrate the necessary elements. Because a comprehensive Functionality is very time-consuming, only an implementation by samples, but a conclusive implementation was done; so e.g. not all Reference Systems of the World are supported. In addition the used Programming Environment does not support all desired properties, e.g. the Graphical Representation, (VB.NET without Software Libraries).
You shouldn't import to large Data Files (DXF, Shape, GML) because MensorGIS is based on VB.NET which has a Memory Restriction for Array Structures of about 2MB.
In the following a short Overview over the supported Functionality should be given. Also the Routines in the background are mentioned/explained. At the end the Menus, User Elements and Windows of MensorGIS are explained in a User Manual.
There are about 43000 lines of Souce Code (about 1900KB), without Design and Resources Files.
Definition Modules
MensorGIS has six Definition Modules:
ModuleBaseGeom: Base Geometry Data Classes, Structures, Enumerations and Global Parameters
ModuleBaseData: Base Attribute Data Classes, Structures, Enumerations and Global Parameters
ModuleBaseTopo: Base Extended Topology Structures, Enumerations and Global Parameters
ModuleBaseGeod: Base Geodesy and Surveying Structures, Enumerations and Global Parameters
ModuleBaseTime: Base Date and Time Structures
ModuleGlobal: Global Constants and Parameters, that define the global Variables which are necessary to control the Program Flow at many situations.
Routine Modules
MensorGIS has nine Routine Modules:
ModuleInitStructures: Initialisation of Structures (Tools, Environment, Graphics, Data, Preferences, GUI, ...), contains about 30 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleMathFunctions: Mathematical Functions (Min/Max, Vector, Trigonometry), contains about 10 Subroutines and Functions
ModulePlotFunctions: Geometry Functions (Graphics Output, Printing), contains about 45 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleDataExchange: Data Exchange Functions (Internal Format, Import, Export), contains about 55 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleDataEdit: Data Edit Functions (Change of Properties), contains about 25 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleDataAnalysis: Data Analysis Functions (Basic Topology, Query), contains about 25 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleTopoFunctions: Topology Functions (Extended Topology, Routing, Buffering), contains about 20 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleGeodFunctions: Geodesy and Surveying Functions (Transformations, Basic Surveying), contains about 45 Subroutines and Functions
ModuleGridFunctions: Height Grid Functions (Height Contour Levels and Lines), contains about 15 Subroutines and Functions
Windows
MensorGIS has 22 Windows: one Main Window, a Splash Screen and 20 Windows for distinct Functions:
FormMensorGIS: Main Window with Graphic Plot, Menus, Control Elements, Display Elements and the corresponding Functionality Envocations and User Interactions in Graphic Plot.
FormLimiten: Adjustment of the Limits/Zoom to Place Markers
FormRefSystem: Adjustment of the Reference Systems
FormObject Class: Editor for Creation of new Object Classes with Attributes
FormTreeView: Display/Editor for Object Classes
FormAttribute: Display/Editor for Attribute Values
FormAbfrage: Execution of Queries
FormTopoAnalyse: Calculation of Topological Analysis
FormText: Generator for Text Objects from Object Classes
FormGetCSV: Import of Comma Separated Value Data
FormVKSchnitte: Calculation of Intersection Caluculations (Surveying)
FormVKPolygone: Calculation of Traverses (Surveying)
FormVKTransform: Calculation of Transformations (Surveying)
FormVKRoute: Development of Marked-Out Routes (Surveying)
FormAusgleichung: Calculation of Least Square Net Adjustment (Surveying)
FormContour: Generation of Height Contour Levels (Cartography)
FormContourLines: Generation of Height Contour Lines (Cartography)
FormProfile: Generation of Height Profiles (Cartography)
FormStyleEditor: Change of Graphic Style Properties (Cartography)
FormIconManager: Change of Point Icon Properties (Cartography)
FormAtlasView: World Atlas Viewer (Cartography)
essential DLL for PDF Printing (C# in Original by PDFsharp and MigraDoc Foundation (SourceForge Project) ):
PdfSharp.dll: PDF Printing compiled from Source mentioned above.
Properties of the Geometry Elements (Primitives)
The Data Model is based on the Primitives Point, Simple Line and Area. In this model the Geometry is based on Points. The Simple Line points to a Starting and an Ending Point (Line References). The Area points to their Boundary Points (Area References).
Only Point Objects are saved as visible Points; the Intermediate Points for the (Multi)Line and Area Objects remain as unvisible Points in the back (Property „visible“ is False), but they are selectable as Intermediate Points for other graphical Objects (!) -> Topology with Node-Edge-Model. So there are no two Points, Lines or Areas with the same Geometry; Exception: while an Import the Check for Existence is only done for the basic Geometry, but not for the Geo Objects, because of Program Performance.
A special case are Texts: they are saved like Points, but independently from the other Primitives and Object Classes. Texts have a Color, a Size and an assignment to a Layer. Texts can be created at the same place like Point Objects.
Geometry Elements and Texts are assigned to distinct Layers. Per Default only the Layer „1“ is existing.
Changes of Properties of the Geometry Elements can be done using the Attribute Editor or by the Layer which the Object are assigned to. Text Objects are treated independently from the Geometry Elements.
For deleted Geometry Elements and Text Objects the Property „activ“ is set to „False“ .
essential Variables: see Chapter Data Storage
essential Routines:
saveLayer: Save a Layer
getActivePoints/getActiveLines/getActiveMultilines/getActiveAreas/getActiveTexts: Number of Points, Lines, MultiLines, Areas, Texts which are not deleted.
changePsizeByLayer/changeLinTypByLayer/changeAreaHatchByLayer/changeColorByLayer: Change of the geometric Representation for all Objects of a certain Layer
changeTcolorByLayer/changeTsizeByLayer/changeTextAlignHorByLayer/changeTextAlignVerByLayer/changeTextOrientAngleByLayer/changeTextVisibleByLayer: Change of the geometric Representation / of Text Alignment / Text Orientation / of the Visibility of Texts of a certain Layer
Digitizing Geometry Elements
Before Digitizing the Properties (i.e. Point Size/Line Type/Area Hatch, Color, Layer) must be adjusted.
If connected Geometry Elements are added, the Topology is taken into account. Found Connection Points are signalized by a violett Marker (Highlight).
A Functionality for the Input of Coordinates by Keyboard is also implemented.
essential Variables:
pubActiveColor/pubActivePSize/pubActiveLinTyp/pubActiveAreaHatch: currently selected geometric Property
pubActiveLayer/pubActiveClass: currently selected semantic Property
pubActiveDigitizer/pubActiveData/pubActiveTopo: currently selected Digitizing, Attributes or Topo-Analysis process
essential Routines:
savePoint/saveLine/saveArea/saveText: Save a Geometric Primitive or Text
checkPoint/checkLine/checkMultiline/checkArea/checkText: Check for the nearest Object
checkPointLst/checkLineLst/checkAreaLst/checkTextLst: Check for the nearest Objects, returns an Array
deletePoint/deleteLine/deleteMultiline/deleteArea/deleteText: Delete an Object with the given Index
scrn2math: Transformation from Screen to Reference System Coordinates
Basic Methods of Point Determination used in Surveying
As a sample the basic Algorithms for calulating Intersections and calculating Traverses (Polygonal Lines), a Free Stationing and a Least Squares Network Adjustment are implemented.
essential Variables:
pubActiveVK: currently selected Calculation of Surveying
pubSizeVKPoly: Dimensioning for the Traverse (Polygon) Points
essential Routines:
VKriwi/VKpolaran: Direction Angle(Bearing) / Polar Point
VKbogensch/VKvorsch/VKruecksch: Arc Section / Forwards Section / Backwards Section
VKpolyein/VKpolybei: Traverse one-sided / two-sided
VKhelmert2Dpar/VKhelmert2Dtrafo: Helmert Transformation incl. Parameter Determination
VKaffin2Dpar/VKaffin2Dtrafo: Affine Transformation incl. Parameter Determination
essential DLLs for Least Squares Network Adjustment (C# in Original):
ClassMatrixCs.dll: Basic Matrix Operations
ClassUtilsCs.dll: Utilities for Vectors and Matrices
ClassVermausCs.dlll: Least Square Network Adjustment
View and View Control
To control View either the Limits can be set, or the Zooming Function or the Pan Function can be used:
The Limits set the lower left and the upper right corner of the View in the Coordinate System of the Project Data Set. Place Marker (Locations) can be registered and later a Zoom can be executed to one of these Place Markers.
The Zooming Function magnifies with a defined Zooming Factor to the picked Point as Mid Point (Zoom To Point) of the new View. The Pan Function shifts the View.
Layers (and Object Classes) can be set On or Off.
A Coordinate Grid with Scale Bar can be displayed optionally.
essential Variables:
pubMAT: Limits of the current Plotting Size of the Project
pubSRC: Limits of the PicturePlot Graphic Plot (Pixel)
pubZoomState/pubZoomCenter: Zoom State / Zoom Mid Point
pubImportNames/pubImportExtents: Informations about the Import Subsets
pubLocationNames/pubLocationCoords: Informations about the Place Markers
essential Routines:
plotPoint/plotLine/plotArea/plotText/plotPointIcon: Plot of the Points, Lines, Areas, Texts and Icons
plotGrid/plotScaleBar: Plot of a Coordinate Grid / a Scale Bar
plotall: central Routine for Plotting the whole Project Data Set
math2scrn: Transformation from Reference System to Screen Coordinates
checkLayer: Test if the Layer, on which an Object lies, is set On.
fitToExtent: Set the Limits on minimum possible Size (MBR) and Actualization of the View
fitToImportSet: Set the Limits on Size (MBR) of an Import Subset and Actualization of the View
Printing
Printing Functionality to PDF.
essential Routines:
printPoint/printLine/printArea/printText/printPointIcon: Print of the Points, Lines, Areas, Texts and Icons
printGrid/printScaleBar: Print of a Coordinate Grid / a Scale Bar
printall: central Routine for Printing the whole Project Data Set
math2pdf: Transformation from Reference System to PDF Coordinates
Data Format for Data Exchange
Part of the de-facto-Standard DXF (Drawing Exchange Format) of Autodesk, which is a Data Exchange Format for CAD Solutions, was implemented.
The Import of CSV Data (Comma Separeted Values) allows to read Point Objects from ASCII Files.
essential Variables:
pubDXF<>: some Variables which control the Import and Export of DXF Data.
essential Routines:
readDXF: Import of DXF Data: Points, Lines, MultiLines, Polygons
saveDXF: Export of DXF Data: Points, Lines, MultiLines, Polygons
readCSVdata: Import of CSV Data: Points including Attributes
Creating Objects
The Creation of Objects is done nearly like in the CAD Functionality; Rectangles are treated as MultiLines.
essential Routines:
Use of Object Classes
Object Classes allow a semantic division of the Objects. Therefore a Data Schema is needed, which defines the Object Classes with their Attributes.
Per Default no Object Class is selectable. Data Schemas can be created in MensorGIS or they can be imported.
Geometry Elements can be assigned to a certain Object Class while Digitizing or also later (CAD Data).
Changes of Properties can be performed in dependence of the Object Class, which the Objects belong to.
Object Classes can be set On and Off (Visibility).
essential Variables: see Chapter Data Storage
essential Routines:
saveSchema/readSchema/saveXSD/readXSD: Saving/Reading / Export/Import of Schema Information
changePSizeByClass/changeLinTypByClass/changeAreaHatchByClass/changeColorByClass: Change of the geometric Representation for all Objects of a certain Object Class
changeClassByLayer/changeLayerByClass: Change of the Object Class / Layer Assignment for all Objects of a certain Layer / a certain Object Class
createText: Creation of Text Objects by the Attribute of an Object Class
Selection of Objects and Editing Attribute Values
The Attribute Values can be selected, changed and saved in an Edit Window object by object. In this Attribute Edit Window as well the geometric Attributes for Point Size / Line Type / Area Hatch, Color and Layer as well as the Attributes of the Data Schema can be changed.
essential Variables: see Chapter Data Storage
essential Routines:
checkPoint/checkLine/checkMultiline/checkArea: Search which Object was clicked
orthogs/pointInPolygon: Subroutines for the Routines above (Orthogonal Intersection / Point-In-Polygon Test)
calLengthPolyline/calAreaPolygon: Calculation of the Length of a PolyLine Object / the Area of a Polygon Object
saveAttributes: Saving of the Attribute Values of the Attribute Edit Window
saveData: Saving of the Attribute Values while Reading/Import
Queries
Similar to a Database Query with SQL (Structured Query Language) Objects can be queried by distinct Properties. This can be done either by geometric or by attributive Criteria. The found Objects are signalized by a violett Marker (Highlight); additionally a Query Protocol is generated as a HTML File.
essential Variables:
pubActiveQuery: currently selected Query Process
pubQueryComp: Comparision Operators for the „Where“ Condition (!=, <, <=, ==, >=, >, LIKE, DISTINCT)
pubQueryCombine: Combination Operators for the „Where“ Condition (AND, OR)
essential Routines:
queryGeometry/queryAttribute: Execution of a geometric / attributive Query inclusive Generation of a HTML Protocol
highlightSelected: Signalization of the Query's Result (Highlighting)
Topological Analysis
Topological Analysis demand a suitable Topology. Points, which should be used as Nodes, must be existent as unvisible Point Objects. The Line and Area Objects point to these Nodes. Before calculating a Topological Analysis the Topology must be created.
As well for Routing as well as for Calculation of Buffes for Points or Lines the Registration of the necessary Preconditions (e.g. Starting and Destination Node) is done via a special Window.
The Results of the Analysis are signalized (Highlighting) and printed in HTML Files.
essential Variables:
Orte/Connections/Startbedingung/Dijkstra: Data Structures to store the Routing Informations (Topology, Preconditions and Results).
Puffer: Data Structure to store the Buffer Informations (Preconditions and Results).
essential Routines:
Triangulate: Triangulation for creation of a Triangle Network (Routing)
createTopo: Creation of the Topology from the current Project Data Set
prepareRouting/preparePointBuffer/prepareLineBuffer: Initialization of the Variables which are needed for the Analysis to be executed
calTopoDIJKSTRA: Calculation of a Routing with the Dijkstra Algorithm
calPointBuffer/calLineBuffer: Calculation of a Point / Line Buffer
showTopoGraph: Display of the Analysis's Result (Highlighting)
saveTopoToHTML: Printing of the HTML Protocol of the Analysis executed
Generation of Height Contour Levels, Height Contour Lines and Height Profiles
Height Contour Levels are held in a Matrix, which has the same Extent as the Plot Area of MensorGIS (in Units of Pixels). The Generation of Height Contour Levels can be computed for one Attribute of one Object Class (Points). The Area of Computation will be set to the Minimum Bounding Rectangular of these Points. Different Interpolation Methods are implemented (variations can be done). The Number of Contour Levels and their Grey Scale Representation can be adjusted. The Mode for Displaying Contour Levels can be set On and Off (Raster Representation not zoomable).
Double Buffering is used for the Plot of the Height Contour Level Matrix because of Program Performance.
Also the Height Contour Lines can be computed for one Attribute of one Object Class (Points). The Area of Computation will be set to the Minimum Bounding Rectangular of these Points. The same Interpolation Methods used for the Height Contour Levels are available for the Height Contour Lines. The desired Intervall of the Contours and the Resolution of the Interpolation Raster can be adjusted. Line Segments laying outside the Convex Hull of the Height Points are set to invisible (Extrapolation). Height Contour Lines can be stored into an Object Class (zoomable).
Also the Height Profiles can be computed for one Attribute of one Object Class (Points). The Area of Computation will be set to the Minimum Bounding Rectangular of these Points. The same Interpolation Methods used for the Height Contour Levels are available for the Height Profiles. The desired Resolution of the Length can be adjusted. The Interpolation is done for a PolyLine. Line Segments laying outside the Convex Hull of the Height Points are set to invisible (Extrapolation). The Height Profile is plotted into the Height Profile Window.
essential Variables:
pubCalContourLevels: Flag which controls the Interruption of Computation
pubNumberOfNextPoints: Dimension of the Array holding the Interpolation Points
pubInterMethods: Array containing the Interpolation Methods' Names
pubThreesholdsLUT: Array containing the Look Up Table of the Grey Scale Representation
pubPlotContourLevels: Flag which controls the Display Mode for the Contour Levels
pubHeightGrid: Matrix containing the Grey Scale Representation
pubNumContLinePnts: Dimension of the Array holding the Points of one Contour Line
pubProfileMAT and pubProfileSCR: Structures holding the Math. and Proj. Limits of Profiles
essential Routines:
calHeightProfile: Main Routine for Computation of the Height Profile of a PolyLine
math2profile/profile2math: Screen-Transformation and Inverse Screen-Transformation for Profiles
calContourLines: Main Routine for Generation of Height Contour Lines
calInterpolPoints: Interpolation of Raster Points in Real World Coordinates
searchContourLines: Generation of the Height-Contour Lines from the Raster Points
chainHull_2D: Andrew's monotone chain 2D convex hull algorithm
isLeft: Test if a point is Left|On|Right of an infinite line
sortXthenY: Sort X Coordinate, if X identical also Y
bubbleIndex: Bubble-Sort with Return of Sort-Index
calContourLevels: Main Routine for Generation of Height Contour Levels
rdHeightGrid: Redimensioning of the Contour Level Matrix
calThreesholds: Calculation of the Grey Scale Representation as Look Up Table
getHeightLim: Calculation of the Limits in Height
getGroundLim: Calculation of the Limits in 2D Space
getNextPoints: find next Interpolation Points
calInterpolLevel: Interpolation and Calculation of the Grey Scale Representation
setThreeshold: setting the Threeshold Values
plotContourLevels: Plot of the Contour Level Matrix by Double Buffering
Definition of Reference Systems
For the displayed Project Data Set and for the Data to be imported a Reference System must be determined, to allow a correct Combination of more Data Sets in the the Project Data Set. The main Difference is between Reference Systems which use either geographic or projected Coordinates. For the projected Reference Systems besides the Geodetic Datum also the kind of Projection, the Central Meridian (Zero Meridian) or Identification Code (e.g. American State Plane Projections) and the Measurement Units (degree/meter/feet) must be determined. For simplifying here the Geodetic Datum was unified with the Ellipsoid.
While Import and Export often a change of the Projection/Central Meridian/Datum is necessary. If Main (Coordinate) System and Import/Export System are adjusted in the right way, the Projection/Datum Transformation is calculated during the Import/Export Process.
essential Variables:
pubCRSMain<>: Informations about the Main (Coordinate) System
pubCRSInOut<>: Informations about the Import/Export (Coordinate) System
essential Routines:
trafoIn/trafoOut: Main Routines for Import/Export of Data Sets
trafoLonLat2EastingNorthing/trafoEastingNorthing2LonLat: projective Transformations between geographic and projected rectangluar Coordinates: Wrapper Function
trafoLB2RH/trafoRH2LB: projective Transformations between geographic and projected rectangluar Coordinates: UTM/GK System
trafoLonLat2OSGB/trafoOSGB2LonLat: projective Transformations between geographic and projected rectangluar Coordinates: OSGB System
trafoLonLat2StPl/trafoStPl2LonLat: projective Transformations between geographic and projected rectangluar Coordinates: State-Plane System
ellConstDef: Calculation of the Ellipsoid Constants
ellueberPar/ellueberMolode: Calculation of the fitting Parameters and Calculation of an Ellipsoid Change by Molodensky (in geographic Coordinates)
convFeet2Meter/convMeter2Feet: Conversion between Meters and Feet
Data Formats for Data Exchange
As Exchange Formats for the GIS Sector parts of the de-facto-Standard Shape File (*.shp) of ESRI, of the interoperable Specification GML, the neutral GPS Exchange Format GPX, the popular KML (ASCII) Data Format (Google Earth) and the XML-based Representation SVG (Scalable Vector Graphics – only Export) are implemented.
Using Shape Files the Geometry Objects are read from the *.shp Files and the Schema Attribute Data from the *.dbf Files; a creation of *.shp-, *.dbf- and *.shx Files is also implemented.
The Import of GML2 Data was adapted to the XSD-Schema and the GML2 Dialect of ESRI/FME. The exported XSD and GML Files also use this GML2-Dialect.
The Import/Export of GPX Data (track or route) also treates the Attributes „height“ and „time“ .
The Import/Export of KML Files (Placemarks) also treates the Attributes „name“ and the z-Coordinate as „height“ .
The Export to SVG is done using geographic Coordinates in the Main System whereby a selectable Map Projection (Cylinder-/Cone-/Azimutal Projection) is calculated.
essential Variables:
pubShape<>: some Variables, which control the Import and Export of Shape Files.
pubGML<>: some Variables, which control the Import and Export of GML Data.
pubSVG<>: some Variables, which control the Export of SVG Data.
essential Routines:
readShape/readDBaseUsingDataReader: Import of Shape Files with DBF File
saveShape/saveDBaseUsingNonQuery: Export of Shape Files with DBF File
readGML/readXSD: Import of GML Data with GML Schema (XSD)
saveGML: Export of GML Data and GML Schema (XSD)
readGPXdata: Import of GPX Data (track, route or waypoint)
saveGPXdata: Export of GPX Data (track, route or waypoint)
readKML: Import of KML Files (Placemarks)
saveKML: Export of KML Files (Placemarks)
saveSVG/math2svg/math2proj/proj2svg/pol2cart: Export in SVG Representation (maybe inclusive selected Map Projection)
CAD and GIS Data
The Geometry Elements / Geo Objects and the Object Classes inclusive Attribute Data are stored in form of indexed Lists. For Point, Line and Area Ojects and for the Data Schema and the Attribute Data (and Values) such a List is held separatedly. The Reference System Parameters and the Topological Information used for Topological Analysis are stored in indexed Structures.
Limitations: For simplfying, for the Attribute Values no Data Types (like Integer, Double, String) are distinguished, all Attributes are internally Strings. VB.NET limits the Memory for these Structures to about 2MB. So MensorGIS can hold only small Data Sets, but this is enough for learning GIS Functionality.
essential Variables:
pubPlotPoint/pubPlotLine/pubPlotArea/pubPlotText: Structures for Point, Line, Area and Text Objects
pubPlotData/pubDataSchema: Structures for Attribute Data and Object Class Definitions
pubGraphTyp/pubColors: Array for the Graphic Primitives and their Colors
pubLayer/pubLayerOnOff: Array for the Layers' Names / Array for the Layer Visibility
essential Routines:
rdPlotPoint/rdPlotLine/rdPlotArea/rdPlotText: Redimensioning of the Structure Variables of the Geometric Objects
rdPlotData/rdDataSchema: Redimensioning of the Structure Variables of the Attribute Data and the Data Schema
testPoint/testLine/testArea/testText: Check if the Object with the distinct Coordinates is already existent (before Saving); if an Object is already existent, the Index of this Object is returned.
Constants and Control Parameters
To control the geometric, semantic and topological Functions some public Constants and Variables are used. Also the Import and Export Formats need some important Constants.
Remark: The Dimensioning Variables can be reset by Preferences (also: Viewing Parameters, Mapping Parameters, Custom Directories).
essential Variables:
pubCountPoint/pubCountLine/pubCountArea/pubCountText: Number of Point, Line, Area and Text Objects
pubSizePoint/pubSizeLine/pubSizeArea/pubSizeText: Dimensioning of the Objects' Structures
pubSizeIDref/pubSizeIDref2: Dimensioning of the Area References to Points / Lines / of the Topological References of a Geometry Element to other Geometry Elements.
pubCountData/pubCountSchema: Number of Data Sets / of Object Classes
pubSizeData/pubSizeSchema: Dimensioning Size of the Data Sets' Structures
some important Enumerations, which contain the possible Values of public Variables.
essential Routines:
some init<> Routines which are executed when starting up the MensorGIS Application before the Main Window is shown.
readPreferences: Routine which is executed optionally to restore the Preferences from a File (mgisprefs.cml).
savePreferences: Routine to store the Preferences into a File.
Loading and Saving
The Saving is done in an internal XML-based Format, whereby for Points, Lines, Areas, Texts, Schemas, Attribute Data (inclusive Attribut Values) and Configuration (Limits, Reference Systeme, Layers) each a File is created separatedly. A central Project File with the Extension „*.minfo“ controls the access to these Files.
essential Variables:
pointFile/lineFile/areaFile/textFile/dataFile/schemaFile/cfgFile: File Names of the internal Storage Format.
essential Routines:
saveFiles/readFiles: Saving / Reading of the Data Set which belongs to the Project
MensorGIS Preferences
MensorGIS allows to save Preferences (Viewing Parameters, Custom Directories, Mapping Parameters and Array Dimensions) into a certain File. When starting up MensorGIS a MessageBox asks if you want to "Start up with Standard Preferences". Clicking "Yes" MensorGIS uses the internal (original) Settings for the Preferences; clicking "No" MensorGIS loads your recently saved (custom) Settings for the Preferences.
Remark: Your custom Settings can be saved via the Menu „Extras – Save Preferences– Export“. For more Details on Preferences see chapter „Preferences“ .
MensorGIS Projects
MensorGIS manages the displayed Data using Projects. As well the Geometry and Attribute Data inclusive Data Schema as well as the Configuration (Layers, Limits, Reference Systems) are saved. Each Project has its own Project File with the Extension „*.minfo“ and corresponding Data Files. Before the first Save Command a new Project has the Name „new“ .
Saving a Project: choose Menu „File – Save“
Opening a Project: choose Menu „File – Open“
New Project: choose Menu „File – New“
Internal Data Format
The internal Data Format is XML-based with exception of the Project File. The Geometry Elements / Geo Objects are save explicitely readable. The Attributes are coded by Object Classes and upcounting Numbers. The following Data Files can exist in a Project (dependent of the existence of distinct Graphic Types or a Data Schema):
<Projectname>cfg.xml: Configuration (Layers, Limits, Reference Systems), always existent
<Projectname>pnt.xml: Point Objects
<Projectname>lin.xml: Line Objects
<Projectname>are.xml: Area Objects
<Projectname>txt.xml: Text Objects
<Projectname>att.xml: Attribute Values of all Objects
<Projectname>sch.xml: Object Classes (Data Schema)
You may have a look at these file with an (XML-)Editor to see how Data are stored.
Beware: While Saving or Opening a Project keep all xml-Project Files closed.
Project Overview
A Project Overview gives Informations on the kind and number of the currently managed Geometry and Attribute Data. These Informations are printed in an ASCII Text Protocol with the Name of the Project; if the Project does not have a Name (before the first Save Command) the Project Overview has the Name „new.txt“. The Protocol File is stored in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS Project directory.
Creating a Project Overview: choose Menu „Extras – Project Overview“
Print to PDF
MensorGIS allows to print into a PDF File. For the current View you can create a File with the Extension „*.pdf“ . For this task a DLL made from Open Source PDFSharp is used.
Printing a View: choose Menu „File – Print“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name for the PDF File (*.pdf). In the Input Dialog enter a Number for the Orientation.
Remark: When recreating a PDF File with the same Name be aware to close the PDF Viewer before starting the PDF Print.
The Adjustments of the Reference Systems are saved in the Configuration File of the Project.
Remark: Because of the CAD/GIS Data Mixture MensorGIS denotes
X as Longitude/Easting
Y as Latitude/Northing
Main System
The Main System determines if the Project uses Geographic Coordinates or Projected Coordinates. If Geographic Coordinates are used for displaying, no Projection can be selected; as in the most commercial GIS Systems a Plattkarte with corresponding big Distortions near the Poles is plotted. If Projected Coordinates (e.g. UTM) are used, the kind of Projection, the Central Meridian (Zero Meridian) or Identification Code (e.g. American State Plane Projections) and the Measurement Units (degree/meter/feet) can be selected / entered. In both cases the Geodetic Datum in form of the combination Ellipsoid / Datum must be selected.
See also Tutorial "ProjectionsTutorial.htm".
Adjustment of the Main System: Menu „ Reference Systems – Main System“-> The Window „Main System“ is shown, in which the Choices and Inputs explained above can be done and saved for the Graphic Plot.
Import/Export System
The Import/Export System defines the Reference System Adjustments analogous to the Main System, but for the Data Sets to be imported/exported.
Adjustment of the Import/Export System: Menu „ Reference Systems – Import/Export System“ -> The Window „Import/Export System“ is shown, in which the Adjustments are done and saved analogous to the Main System.
Remark: By right clicking into the Graphic Plot Area a Cursor Menue gives the most important View Control and Attribute Display Functions.
Adjustment of the Limits
The Adjustment of the Limits can defined either via Input of Lower Left and Upper Right Corner of the area to be displayed (Extent) – variable by the User – or via the Fit Function for the Bounding Box (MBR) of the whole Project Data Set or via the Fit Function for the Bounding Box (MBR) of an Import Subset. The Adjustments of the Limits (Project Data Set) are saved in the Configuration File of the Project Data Set.
Adjustment of the Limits by manual Input: Menu „View – Limits – set“ -> The Window „Set Limits“ is shown, in which the Coordinates for Lower Left and Upper Right Corner can be typed in and saved.
Adjustment of the Limits by Fit Function: Menu „View – Limits – Fit“ or Button „Fit“ in the Tool Bar or Menue „Zoom Fit“ of the Cursor Menue.
Adjustment of the Limits by Fit Subset Function: Menu „View – Limits – Fit Subset“ -> in the Window shown choose a File Name of the Import Subset at the bottom an press the Button „Save“.
Zoom Control
The Zoom Functions allow to Zoom In with a defined Factor (change of Value via Menu Extras – Preferences) onto the selected Point as Center Point of the new View and also the to Zoom Out with the same Factor.
Zoom In: Menu „View – Zoom – Zoom In“ or Button „Z+“ in the Tool Bar or Menue „Zoom In“ of the Cursor Menue -> choose Center Point of the new View.
Zoom Out: Menu „View – Zoom – Zoom Out“ or Menue „Zoom Out“ of the Cursor Menue .
Place Markers
Points can be saved using a Name and later a Zoom to these Place Markers is possible. The Place Markers are saved in the Configuration File of the Project Data Set.
Setting of a Place Marker: Menu „View – Place Marker – set“
Zoom to Place Marker: Menu „View – Place Marker – Zoom To“ -> in the Window shown choose a Named Place Marker at the bottom an press the Button „Save“
Pan of the View
The Pan Function allows the Shifting of the View by a Distance to be defined by the Mouse Pointer.
Pan: Menu „View – Pan“ or Button „Pan“ in the Tool Bar or Menue „Pan“ of the Cursor Menue -> Click (left) the first an second Point of the Shift Vector with the Mouse.
Redraw
The Redraw of the View in the Graphic Plot is usually done automatically after a hiding by an other Window or if the Project Data Set was changed. The Redraw by the User allows often to delete temporary Markers of Graphic Elements – e.g. after Selection of Objects when using Digitizing, Queries or Analysis –.
Make a Redraw: Menu „View – Redraw“
Coordinate Grid and Scale Bar
For better Orientation a Coordinate Grid inclusive Scale Bar can be displayed.
Set On: Menu „View – Coordinate Grid – Grid On“
Set Off: Menu „View – Coordinate Grid – Grid Off“
Visibility of the Layers
Each Layer can be set On or Off via the ChoiceList „Layer“ by the ControlBox (Check) left side of the Layer Name.
Visibility of the Object Classes
Each Object Class can be set On or Off via the ChoiceList „Object Class“ by the ControlBox (Check) left side of the Object Class Name.
Measure Distance
The Distance between two Points in Kilometers (km) can be measured as well for geographic as well as for metric projected Coordinates.
Measure Distance: Menu „Measure – Distance“ or Button „Dist“ -> pick Starting and End Point.
Measure Area
Der Area of a Polygon in (Square Kilometers) sqkm can be measured as well for geographic as well as for metric projected Coordinates.
Measure Area: Menu „Measure – Area“ or Button „Area“ -> pick Boundary Points of Area.
After choice of the corresponding Object Type (Point, Line, PolyLine, Poly-Area) in the Digitizer ComboBox and other Properties (Point Size / Line Type / Area Hatch, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class) in the correspondig ComboBoxes, Geometry Elements / Geo Objects can be registered. As an alternative you may type in Coordinates via the Keyboard when Digitizing. As an example for complex Geometry Elements the Rectangluar is supported; it is saved in four Line Elements which form a PolyLine. Texts can created one by one independently from Object Classs or generated in dependence of the Attributes of an Object Class automatically; in this case the Centroid Point of the corresponding Objects is used as Anchor Point for the Text. Limitation: only Line Elements can have Texts, but no PolyLines.
When adding connected Geometry Elements the Topology should be kept in mind. Found Connection Points are signalized by a violett Marker (Highlight). Not yet completed Objects e.g. like PolyLines or Areas are also signalized violett as Highlight Color. Right click to finish an Object with more Edges.
Also Deleting of Geometry Elements / Geo Objects is possible. Text Objects can only be manipulated and deleted via the „Texts“-Menu.
Set Keyboard Input On/Off:
Press Button „T“ beneath the ComboBox „Digitizer“ : orange = Mouse Input, cyan = Keyboard Input; The Keyboard Input is only active/inactiv until this Button is pressed again.
Remark: With active Keyboard Input when (left) clicking the Mouse an Input Dialog for the Point is displayed, in which the 2D Coordinates have to be typed in Point by Point, separated by Comma.
The following Geometry Elements can be digitzed:
Digitizing Points
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Point“ ;
choose Point Size, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class;
set Point set via Mouse Click or type in the Coordinates.
Digitizing Lines
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Line“ ;
choose Line Type, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class;
set Starting and End Point via Mouse Click or type in the Coordinates.
Digitizing Polylines (Multi-Lines)
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „PolyLine“ ;
choose Line Type, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class;
set Starting and more Intermediate Points via Mouse Click or type in the Coordinates; after last Point right click with the Mouse.
Digitizing Rectangles
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Rectangle“ ;
choose Line Type, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class;
set two diagonale Corners or type in the Coordinates.
Digitizing Polygon Areas
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Poly-Area“ ;
choose Area Hatch, Color, Layer and maybe Object Class;
set Points via Mouse Click or type in the Coordinates; after last Point right click with the Mouse.
Placing Text Objects (without Object Class)
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Set Text“ ;
choose Point Size, Color and Layer;
set Point via Mouse Click or type in the Coordinates;
Enter Text Contents (String) In the Input Dialog and confirm with „OK“.
Generating Text Objects (from Attributs of an Object Class)
choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Create from Object Class“ or press Button „TG“ in the Tool Bar.
In Window „Create Texts“ choose at first the Object Class, then the Attribute from which to take the Text Contents;
Choose the geometric Properties „Color“, „Size“ and „Layer“ .
Choose the Layout Properties „Horizontal Alignment“ , „Vertical Alignment“ and „Orientation Angle“ (Defaults already set).
By Confirming with the Button „Create Texts“ start the Generation of Text Objects.
Deleting Objects (not Text Objects)
In the ComboBox „Digitizer“ choose the Function „Delete Object“ or press the Button „Delete“ in the Tool Bar.
Select the Object to delete (Point, Line, PolyLine, Area) with the Mouse. -> temporary violett Marker signalizes found Objects.
Answer the Security Question.
For PolyLines additionally the Question „Option PolyLine ?“ is displayed. With „Yes“ the selected PolyLine will be deleted, with „No“ only the selected Line Element.
Deleting Text Objects
Choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Delete Text Object “ -> Anchor Points get visible;
Left Click Anchor of the Text Object (violett Point, up at left side) with the Mouse;
Answer the Security Question.
Calculations of Intersections and Traverses: Arc Section, Forwards Section, Backwards Section and one-sided or two-sided Traverse.
See also Tutorial "SurveyTutorial.htm".
Calculations of Least Squares Network Adjustment in 1D, 2D and 3D.
See also Tutorial "AdjustmentTutorial.htm".
Remark: Points used as Input and Points calculated as Output can be exchanged with the current Project Data Set.
Calculation of Intersections
Arc Section: Menu „Surveying – Arc Section“ -> the Window „Arc Section“ is shown: With the Buttons „P1“ and „P2“ select the Basis Points and type in the Distances; then press „Calculate“ -> the Coordinates of the New Point are displayed, for signalizing a violett Marker (Highlight) in the Graphic Plot appears. Pressing „Save“ puts the New Point into the Project Data Set.
Forwards Section: Menu „ Surveying – Forwards Section“ -> the Window „Forwards Section“ is shown: With the Buttons „P1“ and „P2“ choose the Basis Points and type in the Angles; then press „Calculate“ -> the Coordinates of the New Point are displayed, for signalizing a violett Marke (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot appears. Pressing „Save“ puts the New Point into the Project Data Set.
Backwards Section: Menu „ Surveying – Backwards Section“ -> the Window „Backwards Section“ is displayed: With the Buttons „P1“, „PM“ and „P2“ choose the Target Points and type in the Angles; then press „Calculate“ -> the Coordinates of the New Point are displayed, for signalizing a violett Marker(Highlight) in the Graphics Plot appears. Pressing „Save“ puts the New Point into the Project Data Set.
Calculation of Traverses (Polygonal Lines)
Traverse one-sided: Menu „ Surveying – Traverse one-sided“ -> the Window „One-sided Traverse“ is shown: With the Buttons „P0“ and „P1“ choose the Target Point and the first Standing Point and type in the Distances and Angles; then press „Calculate“ -> the Coordinates of the New Points are displayed, for signalizing violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot appear. Pressing „Save“ puts the New Points into the Project Data Set.
Traverse two-sided: Menu „ Surveying – Traverse two-sided“ -> the Window „Two-sided Traverse“ is shown: With the Buttons „P0“ and „P1“ choose the Target Point and the first Standing Point and with the Buttons „PN“ and „PN+1“ the last Standing Point and Target Point and type in the Distances and Angles (for the last Distance enter any number not zero); then press „Calculate“ -> the Coordinates of the New Points are displayed, for signalizing violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot appear. Pressing „Save“ the New Points are put into the Project Data Set.
Free Stationing (Geodetic 2D Transformations)
Measurement Mode: Menu „ Surveying – Free Stat./Measurement“ -> the Window „Free Stationing/Measurement“ is shown: At first choose the Type of the Measurement System (Cartesian/Polar). The upper half of the Window allows the Determination of the Transformation Parameters using Identical Points (Points known in the Measurement Coord System and in the current GIS Coord System). Use the four InputText Fields to enter the 2D Coordinates of an Identical Point. To get the Coordinates of a Point in the the GIS Coord System push the Button „Pick Fixed Pnt.“ and pick the apropriate Point in the Graphics Area. To add an Identical Point (2D Coords in both Systems) to the List below (DataGridView) press the Button „Add“; the Button „Delete“ clears the whole List. Before computing the Transformation Parameters choose the Transformation Model from the ComboBox: Helmert with 4 Parameters and Affine with 6 Parameters. Pressing the Button „Calculate Parameters“ shows the 4 or 6 Parameters and the Residues of the Identical Points.
The lower half of the Window allows the Transformation of the measured Points into the GIS Coord System. Use the four InputText Fields to enter an optional Point Number (Text/String), the 2D Coordinates in the Measurement Coord System and an optional Height Information. To add a Measurement Point to the List below (DataGridView) press the Button „Add“; the Button „Delete“ clears the whole List. Alternatively you may add Measurement Points from a Text File using the Button „From File ...“; the File Format needs four Columns: Point Number, Easting, Northing and Height (Cartesian Coords) or Point Number, Horizontal Distance, Direction (Gon) and Height (Polar Coords). Pressing the Button „Calculate New Points“ shows the Coordinates of the New Points in the GIS Coord System. To save the New Points into the current Project Data Set either choose a Layer in the MensorGIS Main Window or choose an Object Class and the Attribute to contain the Height Information in the current Window and the Press the Button „Save“.
Stake-Out Mode: Menu „ Surveying – Free Stat./Stake-Out“ -> the Window „Free Stationing / Stake-Out“ is shown: At first choose the Type of the Measurement System (Cartesian/Polar). The upper half of the Window allows the Determination of the Transformation Parameters using Identical Points (Points known in the Measurement Coord System and in the current GIS Coord System). Use the four InputText Fields to enter the 2D Coordinates of an Identical Point. To get the Coordinates of a Point in the the GIS Coord System push the Button „Pick Fixed Pnt.“ and pick the apropriate Point in the Graphics Area. To add an Identical Point (2D Coords in both Systems) to the List below (DataGridView) press the Button „Add“; the Button „Delete“ clears the whole List. Before computing the Transformation Parameters choose the Transformation Model from the ComboBox: Helmert with 4 Parameters and Affine with 6 Parameters. Pressing the Button „Calculate Parameters“ shows the 4 or 6 Parameters and the Residues of the Identical Points.
The lower half of the Window allows the Transformation of the planned Points into the Measurement Coord System. Use the four InputText Fields to enter an optional Point Number (Text/String), the 2D Coordinates in the GIS Coord System and an optional Height Information. To add a Planned Point to the List below (DataGridView) press the Button „Add“; the Button „Delete“ clears the whole List. Alternatively you may add Planned Points by picking them in the Graphics Area using the Button „Pick Point“. Pressing the Button „Calculate New Points“ shows the Coordinates of the New Points in the Measurement Coord System. To save the New Points into a Text File the Press the Button „To File ...“; the File will have four Columns: Point Number, Easting, Northing and Height (Cartesian Coords) or Point Number, Horizontal Distance, Direction (Gon) and Height (Polar Coords).
Development of Marked-Out Routes
Remark: The Element Types "Straight" (Line) and "Arc" (Part of Circle) are supported. Up to 20 Elements can be concatenated.
Enter Route Elements and Calculate Route: Menu „ Surveying – Develop Marked-Out Route“ -> the Window „Marked-Out Route“ is shown: Follow the Instructions in the Window: Please choose Element Type first, then enter Parameters, press Button Register, press Button Reset, after entering all Elements including Parameters press Button „Calculate“. In the Preview Pane a Sketch of the current Marked-Out Route is drawn. The DataGrid containing the Elements shows each Element Length and the whole Route Length.
Hint: You may clear the DataView containing the Elements by pressing the Button „Delete“.
To transfer the Main Points of the Route's Axis choose two different Points (ComboBoxes) and then pick the matching Points in the Plot Area of the MensorGIS Main Window (Buttons), then press Button „Tranformation“. The calculated Axis Points should appear in the Main Window.
Hint: You may refresh the Route Drawing by pressing the Button „Redraw“.
Calculation of Least Squares Network Adjustment
Remark: You can set the preferred Net Data Directory via the Preferences in the „Extras“ Menu (for details see Chapter „Preferences“).
Creating Files: Menu „ Surveying – Least Squares Network Adjustment“ -> the Window „Least Squares Network Adjustment“ is shown: The Tabs at the bottom let you enter and save the Information needed for Calculating the Adjustment. There are three Tabs:
The first Tab lets you enter the Coordinates of Reference/Fixed Points and of Preliminary Positions of the Unknown Points.
The second Tab lets you enter the Observations (Measurement) that define the Surveying Network:
The third Tab lets you enter the Orientational Unknowns if needed.
In every Tab the Process of Data Registration is similar: At first enter/select the Information for one Element (Point/Observation/Orientation) in the Input Line, then press the Button „Register“ to add the Input Line Information to the DataGrid. Before entering another Element, Press the Button „Reset“ to clear the Input Line. Remark: You may load Reference Points into MensorGIS and use the Button „Pick“ to get their Coordinates into the Coordinates Input Line.
When Input is finished, press the Button „Save“ to write the Information into a Text File (Extension *.kin for Coordinates / *.min for Observations (Measurement) / *.oin for Orientation). The Button „Delete“ allows to Delete all Entries.
Remark: If you create or change the Input Files by hand in an Editor be careful: Point Numbers must be Integers! Between each Number/Column there must be just one Blank!
Calculation: Menu „ Surveying – Least Squares Network Adjustment“ -> the Window „Least Squares Network Adjustment“ is shown: With the Buttons „Coordinate File“, „Observation File“ and „Orientation File“ define the Text Files which contain the Information for Calculation. Then select the Network Type. All other Selections or Text Inputs may be changed if needed.
When Input is finished, press the Button „Calculate“ -> in the Textbox below an Information about finishing or maybe error is shown; the New Points are higlighted in the Graphics Plot. In the same Directory as the Input Text Files are stored the Result Text Files (Extension *.kot for Coordinates / *.mot for Observations (Measurement) / *.oot for Orientation), a HTML Protocol File and a SVG File are saved. Also other temporary Text Files containing the Matrices are saved, but these are overriden when calculating another Task.
If you want to store the New Points into the Project Data Set, activate the CheckBox „Store New Points in MensorGIS“ before pressing the Start Button.
Geometric Properties
By assigning Geometry Elements / Geo Objects to Layers / to Object Classes the change of geometric Properties can be performed distinctly for Objects on a certain Layer / in a certain Object Class. For all geometric Properties, which can be chosen before Digitizing, also a Change is possible afterwards:
Change of Color by Layer / Object Class: choose new Color and Layer / Object Class of the Objects to change, the choose Menu „Edit – Colors – Color by Layer / Color by Object Class“ .
Change of Point Size by Layer / Object Class: Choose new Point Size and Layer / Object Class of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Point Size – Size by Layer / Size by Object Class“ .
Change of Line Type by Layer / Object Class: choose new Line Type and Layer / Object Class of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Line Types – Line Type by Layer / Line Type by Object Class“ .
Change of Area Hatch by Layer / Object Class: Choose new Area Hatch ad Layer / Object Class of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Area Hatch – Hatch by Layer / Hatch by Object Class“ .
Change of Text Color / Text Size by Layer: choose new Color / Text Size and Layer of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Color – Color by Layer“ / Menu „Edit – Texts – Size – Size by Layer“ .
Change of Text Horizontal Alignment / Text Vertical Alignment by Layer: choose active Layer of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit– Texts – Alignment – Horizontal by Layer “ / Menu „Edit– Texts – Alignment – Vertical by Layer“ . Remark: Alignment toggles between Horizontal: left-center-right / Vertical bottom-middle-top.
Change of Text Orientation Angle by Layer: choose active Layer of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit– Texts – Orientation – Angle by Layer “ and then enter Angle between -180.0 and +180.0 (0.0 = horizontal).
Change of Text Color, Text Size or Text Layer of a single Element: choose new Color / new Text Size / new Layer, then choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Color – change single one “ / Menu „Edit – Texts – Size – change single one “ / Menu „Edit – Texts – Layers – change single one“ .
Change of Text Alignment (Hor and Ver), Text Orientation Angle of a single Element: choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Alignment – change single one “ / Menu „Edit – Texts – Orientation – change single one “ , then enter Value for Horizontal Alignment: -1/0/+1 and then for Vertical Alignment: -1/0/+1 / enter Value for Orientation Angle: any Value between -180.0 and +180.0 (0.0 = horizontal).
Change Point Location: choose Menu „Edit – Geometry – Point-Location “ . Pick any Point (also PolyLine or Polygon Points) -> Input Dialog gives current Coordinates; enter here new Coordinates separated by a Comma.
Chaikin Algorithm to encrease Level of Detail: choose Menu „Edit – Geometry – PolyLine - LOD – Chaikin-plus “ . Pick a PolyLine -> Answer Question if old PolyLine should be deleted. Remarks: Attribute Data are not transferred.
Chaikin Algorithm to decrease Level of Detail: choose Menu „Edit – Geometry – PolyLine - LOD – Chaikin-minus “ . Pick a PolyLine -> Answer Question if old PolyLine should be deleted. Remarks: Not suitable for all PolyLines; Algorithm stop if there is a Problem. Attribute Data are not transferred.
Douglas-Peucker Algorithm to decrease Level of Detail: choose Menu „Edit – Geometry – PolyLine - LOD – Douglas-Peucker “ . Pick a PolyLine -> Answer Question if old PolyLine should be deleted. An Input Box asks for the Tolerance Value, type in the maximal tolerable Distance in current Units of the Main Reference System. Remarks: Better Alternative to decrease LOD. Attribute Data are not transferred.
Logical and Semantic Properties
Also the logical Assignment to Layers in dependence of the Property to a Object Class and vice versa the semantic Assignment to Object Classes in dependence of the Layer Property can be changed. The change of the Object Class only makes sense, if the corresponding Objects have the same Graphic Type (Point, Line, Area).
Beware: The already stored Attribute Values are deleted when changing the Object Class. The change of an Object Class is used only if a Geo Object is created from a CAD Geometry Element.
Registration of a new Layer: Choose Menu „Edit – Layers – New Layer“ and type in a Name for the New Layer in the Question Dialog. The Layers are saved in the Configuration File of the Project Data Set.
Change of Layers by Object Class: choose the new Layer and Object Class of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Layers – Layer by Object Class“ .
Change of Object Class by Layer: Choose the new Object Class and Layer of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Data – Attributes – Object Class by Layer“ .
Change of Visibility of Text Objects: choose the Layer of the Objects to change, then choose Menu „Edit – Texts – Visibility – Text On by Layer“ or Menu „Edit – Texts – Visibility – Text Off by Layer“ .
Change of Contents of Text Objects: Choose Menu „Texte – Change Text Contents “ , select Text Object with left Mouse Click Maus, then type in the new Text Contents in the Input Dialog and confirm by pressing „OK“ .
Data Schemas are typically used when dealing with GIS Data. MensorGIS allows the creation of new Object Classes by hand and also the Import of a Data Schema in XSD and internal XML Format
Registration of Object Classes with Attributes
In MensorGIS new Object Classes with Attributes can be defined by the User Input. In MensorGIS an Object Class is based on a graphic Type. The display in the ComboBoxes shows the graphic Types with the following Symbols: * for Point, - for Line, o for Area.
Registration of a new Object Class: choose Menu „Data – Schema – New Object Class“ -> the Window „New Object Class“ is shown: At first the Graphic Type (Point, Line or Area) has to be chosen and the Name of the Object Class typed in. For each Attribute of this Object Class the Name must be typed in and then chosen if a Limitation for the allowed Range of the Attribute Value should be checked while Registration of Attribute Data (Default „not limited“). When choosing „limited“, lower and upper Bound as Number has to be entered. When Input for an Attribut is finished, then by Confirming with the Button „Add Attr“ the Attribute is added to the Attribute List below. With the Button „Clear“ the Input Texts for the Attribute Input can be cleared again. With the Button „Save“ the Object Class will be put into the Data Schema and then will be selectable when creating (Geo) Objects.
Import of Data Schemas
Data Schemas can also be read in from external sources. Therefore either the Schema of the MensorGIS-internal Format „*sch.xml“ or from a XSD Schema for GML2 Data can be imported.
Import from internal Schema: Menu „Data – Schema – sch.xml Import“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows with Filter for the internal Schemas. Choose the desired Schema.
Import from XSD Schema: Menu „Data – Schema – XSD Import“ > the Choose File Window of Windows with Filter for XSD Schemas. Choose the desired Schema.
Manipulation of Object Classes and their Attributes
In MensorGIS the Object Classes and their Attributes can be redefined by User Input. The Name of the Attribute and if there are Limitations and the Limits can be changed.
Manipulation of Object Class Names and States by a Tree View: choose Menu „Data –Schema – Schema Tree View“ -> the Window „Schema Tree View“ is shown: active Object Classes are printed in green, inactive ones in red; Pick the Object Class which you want to change (Name or State) -> the Object Class Name and State are displayed. Change the Name / the State Information and press the Button „Save“ to save the changes. Remark: also the Object Class-CheckedListBox of the Main Window of MensorGIS and in dependence the Graphics Plot get changed.
Manipulation of Object Class Attributes by a Tree View: choose Menu „Data –Schema – Schema Tree View“ -> the Window „Schema Tree View“ is shown: Expand the Tree at the Object Class in which you want to change something in the Attributes. Pick the Attribute you want to change -> the Attribute Name and maybe the Limitation Information inclusive lower and upper Bound are displayed. Change the Name / the Limitation Information / the Bounds and press the Button „Save“ to save the changes.
Functions for displaying, assigning and editing Attributes are distinguished.
The Multiple Object Selection Function allows a Choice if two or more Objects are near to each other: the found Objects (max. 20) are listed in the order Point Features - Line Features - Area Features; type in the Number in Brackets (X) of the Feature to display. The default Number "1" allows just to press "OK", e.g. if the wished Point Feature is over a Line or Area Feature or if the wished Line Feature is over an Area Feature. Keep in mind: if too much Objects are listed, a Zoom In could help!
Remark:By right clicking into the Plot Area a Cursor Menue gives the most important View Control and Attribute Display Functions.
Displaying Attributes
As well the geometric Properties as well as the Object Class Attributes can be displayed for each Geometry Object in the current Project Data Set of MensorGIS. Text Objects are treated separately.
Displaying of geometric Properties / Attributes: choose the Menu „Data – Attributes – display“ or the Button „Show Attr“ in the Tool Bar or the Menue „Attribute“ of the Cursor Menue, then select the desired Geometry Element with the left Mouse Button -> the Window „Attributes View“ is shown.
Assignment of Object Classes to Geometry Elements
The Creation of Geo Objects can be done by 3 Alternatives: 1. Already when Digitizing by Choice of the desired Object Class; 2. afterwards for CAD Elements, like described in „Change of Object Properties“ , via the Layer Property; 3. afterwards for CAD Elements, like described in following:
Attribute Registration (new): Choose the Menu „Data – Attributes – register“ , then select the desired Geometry Element with the left Mouse Button -> the Window „Attributes New“ is shown. Choose the Object Class to be assigned in the ComboBox beneath „Object Class“ . Keep in mind the Graphic Type (Symbols: * for Point, - for Line, o for Area). To assign press the Button „set Class “ . Above the ComboBox the determined Object Class is displayed and an the Attributes of the Object Class are shown.
Registrating and Editing of Attribute Values
After assigning an Object Class to a Geometry Element (see above), in the same Window also the Attribute Values can be typed in and saved into the Project Data Set. Changing Attribute Values afterwards is also possible at any time. The change of geometric Properties (Point Size/Line Type/Area Hatch, Color, Layer) is also possible for CAD Elements via the Attribute Editor.
Change of Attribute Values / geometric Properties: Choose the Menu „Data – Attributes – change“ or the Button „Edit Attr“, then select the desired Geometry Element with the left Mouse Button -> the Window „Attributes Change“ is shown. Type in the Attribute Values to change / choose the Geometric Types and save the changes with the Button „Save“ into the Project Data Set.
Deleting Object Class Assignments
If you want to cut a Geo Object from the Assignment to an Object Class (and therefore make a CAD Element from it) you can cut the Assignment to an Object Class inclusive a Clearing of the Attribute Values (only the Geometric Properties are held).
Deleting Object Class Assignment: Choose then Menu „Data – Attributes – delete“ , then select the desired Geometry Element with the left Mouse Button -> the Window „Attributes Delete“ is shown. In the ComboBox beneath „Object Class“ choose the List Item „-----“ (first Item; it means no Object Class) and then press the Button „set Class“ and confirm the Security Question „Do you really want to delete the Assignment with an Object Class?“ .
Display of Quick Info from Attributes.
An Attribute of the active Object Class can be selected to have a visible and faster Access to this Attribute.
Display of Quick Info from Attributes: At first select the active Object Class in the Tool Bar. Choose then Menu „Data – Attributes – Quick Info“ or in the Status Bar click the green Label „Quick Info“. Then the Dialog lets you choice the Attribute from which to take the Attribute Value; enter the Number. -> Moving the Cursor over Objects of the active Object Class should display the Attribute Value. To deactivate this Function either choose the same Menu or the same (now reddish) „Quick Info“ Label again.
Geometric Query
Geometric Queries make a Selection of Objects via Input of Coordinates. This is possible as well for CAD Elements as well as for Geo Objects. The Query is structured in the Syntax of SQL (Structured Query Language).
Geometric Query: Choose Menu „Data – Query – geometric“ -> the Window „geometric Query“ is shown. Choose at first the Object Class, and then the Attribute and type in the Limits in both Coordinates Directions. With the Button „Query“ you execute the Query. Beneath the Number of found Objects is displayed. In addition the selected Objects are signalized in the Graphic Plot of MensorGIS by temporary violett Markers, which can be redrawn with the Button „Redraw“ in the Query Window. The Result of the Query is printed into a HTML Protocol File; here all selected Objects are listed. Die Protocol File „Select.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS Project.
Attributive Query
Attributive Queries make a Selection of Objects via Input of Attribute Values of Object Classes. This is only possible for Geo Objects. The Query is structured in the Syntax of SQL (Structured Query Language). As Comparison Operators in the „Where“ Condition numeric (!=, <, <=, ==, >=, >) and textual (!=, =, LIKE, DISTINCT) Comparisons are supported. As Combination Operators for the optional second „Where“ Condition AND and OR as supported. To query for an empty Entry, use the textual Comparison Operator DISTINCT and enter NULL as String. Remark: The textual Queries are case-sensitive (here: Capital Letters), i.e. lower case and upper case letters are distinguished.
Attributive Query: Choose Menu „Data – Query – by Attribute“ or press Button „SQL“ in the Tool Bar -> the Window „attributive Query“ is shown. Choose at first the Object Class, then the Attribute and make Input for the (first) „Where“ Condition and type in the Value Criterium (Number or String); with „Where“ a certain Condition can be made for the Attribute Value. For an optional second „Where“ Condition select the Combination Operator and then repeat the selections/input in the same way as for the first one.
With the Button „Query“ you execute the Query. Beneath the Number of found Objects is displayed. In addition the selected Objects are signalized in the Graphics Plot of MensorGIS by temporary violett Markers, which can be redrawn pressing the Button „Redraw“ in the Query Window. The Result of the Query is printed into a HTML Protocol File; here selected Objects are listed. The HTML Protocol File „Select.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ Directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Topological Analysis is also an essential Task of Geo-Information Systems. Before executing such Analysis a Topology has to be created.
Creating a Topology
MensorGIS saves only these Topological Informations which are needed for displaying the Project Data Set, like e.g. Start and Ending Point of a Line, Line Elements of a PolyLine (MultiLine) and Boundary Points of an Area. The additional Topological Connections for Topological Analysis are computed before performing these Analyses from the current Project Data Set. If there are only Points, for the Routing a Triangulation with the Points can be computed, which creates Line Objects according to the Triangle Network.
Remarks: The Triangulation needs Points of an Object Class, Points without Object Class can not be used. The Triangulation also needs non-identical Points; the Import Functions give an Option to check for identical Points (click Option Yes). Data Sets with PolyLines only need to be prepared with "Use all Points" before creating the Topology; so Background Points become real Points.
Triangulation (optionally): Choose at first Color, Line Type, Layer and Object Class, then choose Menu „Topology – Triangulation“ .
Use all Points (optionally): choose Menu „Topology – Use all Points“.
Adjustment of the Analysis Topology: Choose Menu „ Topology – create Topology“. After computing the Message „Topologies created successfully!“ should be displayed.
Routing
One of the most often used Topological Analysis is the Searching for an optimal Way through a Node-Egde-Network (Routing). MensorGIS supports the Routing Function without and with usage of attributive Information for Street Classification.
See also Tutorial "TopoTutorial.htm".
Routing without Street Classification: Create or import Project Data Set with Point Objects and Line Objects between these Points. Choose Menu „Topology – Routing“ -> the Window „Routing“ is shown. At top the Number of the Points, Lines and Areas which are in the Topology are displayed. After pressing the Button „Start“ select in the Graphic Plot Area of MensorGIS the Starting Point with the left Mouse Button; then after pressing the Button „Destination“ select in the Graphic Plot Area of MensorGIS the Destination Point. Select „no Attribute“ and press the Button „Calculate“ . Below there is displayed how many Points are needed for the Optimal Way and which Distance (in km) and which Time (in km/h) is needed therefore. In addition the calculated Optimal Way is signalized by temporary violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot. With the Button „Redraw“ (in the Routing Window) you may redraw the Markers. The Result is printed in a HTML Protocol File; here all Points on the Optimal Way are listed with additional Informations. The Protocol File „Routing.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Routing with Street Classification: Create or import Project Data Set with Point Objects and Line Objects between these Points. Then an Attribute is registered which contains the Information about the die Street Classifying. Default are four Street Classes with the Attribute Values 1 = small Street, 2 = usual Street, 3 = Main Street, 4 = Motorway. For the Routing choose the Menu „ Topology – Routing“ -> the Window „Routing“ is displayed. At top the Numbers of the Points, Lines and Areas which are in the Topology are displayed. After pressing the Button „Start“ select in the Graphics Plot Area of MensorGIS the Starting Point; then after pressing the Button „Destination“ select in the Graphics Plot Area of MensorGIS the Destination Point. Choose the Attribute which contains the Information about the Street Classifying and press the Button „Calculate“. Below there is displayed how many Points are needed for the Optimal Way and which Distance (in km) and which Time (in km/h) is needed therefore. In addition the calculated Optimal Way is signalized by temporary violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot. With the Button „Redraw“ (in the Routing Window) you may redraw the Markers. The Result is printed in a HTML Protocol File; here all Points on the Optimal Way are listed with additional Information. The Protocol File „Routing.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Spreading
Another Topological Analysis computes which of the connected Points are reachable with distinct Costs, i.e. Distance (Spreading). MensorGIS supports the Spreading Function without and with usage of attributive Information for Street Classification.
Compute Spreading: Create or import Project Data Set with Point Objects and Line Objects between these Points. Choose Menu „Topology – Spreading“ -> the Window „Spreading“ is shown. At top the Number of the Points, Lines and Areas which are in the Topology are displayed. After pressing the Button „Start“ select in the Graphic Plot Area of MensorGIS the Starting Point with the left Mouse Button. Enter the Costs, i.e. the Distance, which give the maximum Distance. Select „no Attribute“ and press the Button „Calculate“ . Below there is displayed how many Points are reachable within the given Costs (Distance). In addition the calculated reachable are signalized by temporary violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot. With the Button „Redraw“ (in the Spreading Window) you may redraw the Markers. The Result is printed in a HTML Protocol File; here all reachable Points are listed with additional Information. The Protocol File „Spreading.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Point Buffer
The Point Buffer allows the Searching for all Objects which lay in a user-defined Radius around a certain Point. With not Point Objects certain topological Relations can be determined which determine if an Object is selected. As an example in MensorGIS the Relations „overlaps“ for partial Overlap and „covers“ for full Overlap by the Buffer Area are implemented.
Remark: Two Point Buffers can be calculated and combined by a Set Operation (AND/OR).
Calculating a Point Buffer: After Creation of the Topology choose the Menu „Topology – Point Buffer“ -> the Window „Point Buffer“ is shown. At top the Numbers of the Points, Lines and Areas which are in the Topology are displayed. After pressing the Button „Point 1“ select in the Graphics Plot Area of MensorGIS the Point around which the Buffer should be calculated. Type in the Radius and choose the Relation which should be used as additional Selection Criterium and press the Button „Calculate“ . Below there is displayed, how many Points, Lines and Ares are selected via the Point Buffer. In addition the Result of the Selection is signalized by temporary violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot. With the Button „Redraw“ (in the Routing Window) you may redraw the Markers.
You may select a second Point (Button „Point 2“), type in the Radius and choose the Relation, and choose the Set Operation (between the Point Buttons) to combine the two Results.
The Result is printed into a HTML Protocol File; here all Objects in the Buffer Area with additional Information are listed. The Protocol File „Puffer.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Line Buffer
The Line Buffer allows the Searching for all Objects, which lay in a user-defined Distance from a certain Line. With not Point Objects certain topological Relations can be determined which determine if an Object is selected. As an example in MensorGIS the Relationen „overlaps“ for partial Overlap and „covers“ for complete Overlap by the Buffer Area are implemented. Limitation: the Line Buffer manages only simple Lines, but no PolyLines.
Remark: Two Line Buffers can be calculated and combined by a Set Operation (AND/OR).
Calculating a Line Buffer: After Creation of the Topology choose the Menu „Topology – Line Buffer“ -> the Window „Line Buffer“ is shown. At top the Numbers of the Points, Lines and Areas which are in the Topology are displayed. After pressing the Button „Line 1“ select in the Graphics Plot Area of MensorGIS the Line around which the Buffer should be calculated. Type in the Distance and choose the Relation which shoud be used as additional Selection Criterium and press the Button „Calculate“ . Below there is displayed, how many Points, Lines and Ares are selected via the Line Buffer. In addition the Result of the Selection is signalized by temporary violett Markers (Highlight) in the Graphics Plot. With the Button „Redraw“ (in the Routing Window) you may redraw the Markers.
You may select a second Line („Line 2“), type in the Distance and choose the Relation, and choose the Set Operation (between the Line Buttons) to combine the two Results.
The Result is printed into a HTML Protocol File; here all Objects in the Buffer Area with additional Information are listed. The Protocol File „Puffer.html“ is in the „bin/Debug“ directory of the MensorGIS directory.
Free Topology
After Topological Analysis have been done, you should free Topology for reasons of Program Performance .
Free Topology: After finishing Topological Analysis choose the Menu „Topology – quit Topology“
Height Contour Levels
Height Contour Levels can be computed for a distinct View of the current Project. The openCartoDB***.xml Data Format provides a Theme named „gridline“ that can contain a DTM-like Array of Height Data Points. For more Information see Chapter „Data Import“ / Section „Open Carto Database Data“ .
See also Tutorial "ContourLevelsTutorial.htm".
Generation of Contour Lines is a complex computation. For simplification MensorGIS can generate Contour Levels, i.e. you will get a grey shaded matrix behind the 2D Objects. The Tool for Generation of Height Contour Levels lets you choose the Object Class and the Attribute which contains the Height Information (Data Points). There are different Methods to interpolate these Contour Levels: Next Neighbourhood, Inverse Distance and Inverse Squared Distance with different Number of Data Points used. By a Threeshold you can define how many Contour Levels are displayed (maximum of 256 from White to Black); by a Scaling Factor the Contrast of the Contour Levels can be defined. The Display Mode for the Height Contour Levels can be set On and Off.
Limitation: The Contour Level Matrix is computed for the actual View only; Zoom or Pan does not scale or move this Matrix.
Generation of Height Contour Levels: Menu „ Height Data – Compute Contour Levels“ -> the Window „Height Contour Levels“ is shown: At first select the Object Class and then its Attribute from which to take the Height Information (you may use Points which are placed in a Grid or are irregularly distributed). Then select the Interpolation Method: Next Neighbourhood / Inverse Distance (4) / Inverse Distance (9) / Inverse Square Distance (4) / Inverse Square Distance (9).
When Adjustment is finished press „Calculate“ -> the Percent Number and Progress Bar show you the State of Computation; if want to stop the Computation press „STOP“ . Beware: The more Data Points you use/the larger the Area of Computation the more the Computation is slowed down. When Computation of the Contour Level Matrix is finished, the new Information is displayed automatically (also Double Buffering takes some time!).
The next two ComboBoxes let you change the Appearance of the Contour Levels by setting Threesholds for the Height Levels an by Scaling the Contrast: The Number of Contour Levels can be set between 2 and 256 (32 is Default); the Scaling can be set between 1.00 (full range) and 0.25 (a quarter of range). Pressing „Redraw“ redraws the Graphics Plot with the new Threeshold. Pressing „Height Plot OFF“ sets the Display Mode for the Height Contour Levels to Off -> the Button changes in „Height Plot ON“ : toggles the Mode to On.
Adjustment of Display Mode of Height Levels: Choose Menu „ Height Contour Levels – Contour Levels Off“ or click „Cont.Level“ in the Status Bar to set the Display Mode for the Height Contour Levels Off.
Adjustment of Display Mode of Height Levels: Choose Menu „ Height Contour Levels – Contour Levels On“ or click „Cont.Level“ in the Status Bar to set the Display Mode for the Height Contour Levels On.
Height Contour Lines
Height Contour Lines can be saved as PolyLines into an Object Class of type "Line".
See also Tutorial "CombinedTutorial.htm".
Generation of Contour Lines is a complex computation. The Tool for Generation of Height Contour Lines lets you choose the Object Class and the Attribute which contains the Height Information (Data Points) and the Object Class and the Attribute which shall contain the generated PolyLines. There are different Methods to interpolate these Contour Lines: Next Neighbourhood, Inverse Distance and Inverse Squared Distance with different Number of Data Points used. The Intervall between the Contour Lines and the Resolution of the Grid of the interpolated Raster Points can be chosen. The Preview Mode lets test if Intervall and Grid Resolution are acceptable, the Store Mode saves the Height Contour Lines into the Destination Object Class.Remarks: If the Intervall is to small or the Grid Spacing is to narrow, the Interpolation Routine automatically doubles the Intervall / Grid Spacing. The Grid of Raster Points is necessary for the Contour Line Generation. The Levels of the Height Contour Lines are Multiples of the chosen Intervall. The Height Contour Lines are adapted to the Convex Hull of the Data Points.
Generation of Height Contour Lines: Menu „ Height Data – Compute Contour Lines“ -> the Window „Height Contour Lines“ is shown: At first select the Object Class and then its Attribute from which to take the Height Information (you may use Points which are placed in a Grid or are irregularly distributed). Then select the Object Class and then its Attribute which shall store the Contour PolyLines and the according Height Information.
Finally choose the Interpolation Parameters: select the Interpolation Method: Next Neighbourhood / Inverse Distance (4) / Inverse Distance (9) / Inverse Square Distance (4) / Inverse Square Distance (9); the Intervall: Difference of the Contour Lines Heights in Meters or Feet; the Grid Resolution: Distance of the Interpolation Raster Points, for a metric Main System in Meters or Feet, for a geographic Main System in Meters which will be converted into Degrees internally. The Mode „Preview“ shows only non-permanent Lines, the Mode „Store“ saves the Height into the chosen Object Class.
When Adjustment is finished press „Calculate“ -> the Percent Number and Progress Bar show you the State of Computation; if want to stop the Computation press „STOP“ . Beware: The more Data Points you use/the larger the Area of Computation/the finer the Raster Resolution the more the Computation is slowed down.
Height Profiles
Height Profiles can be computed for distinct PolyLines of the current Project.
See also Tutorial "CombinedTutorial.htm".
The Tool for Generation of Height Profiles lets you choose the Object Class and the Attribute which contains the Height Information (Data Points). There are different Methods to interpolate a Height Profile: Next Neighbourhood, Inverse Distance and Inverse Squared Distance with different Number of Data Points used. The Resolution in Length can be chosen. The Profile is drawn into the Height Profile Window; vertical Lines indicate the End Points of Line Segments. Moving the Mouse Cursor in the Plot Area yields the Length and Height Information.Remarks: The Resolution in Length is entered in Meters of Feet; if the Main System is in Geographic Coordinates, then the Resolution is internally converted. The Height Profiles are adapted to the Convex Hull of the Data Points; therefore parts of the PolyLine may be not shown in the Profile.
Generation of Height Profiles: Menu „ Height Data – Compute Height Profiles“ -> the Window „Height Profiles“ is shown: At first select the Object Class and then its Attribute from which to take the Height Information (you may use Points which are placed in a Grid or are irregularly distributed).
Finally choose the Interpolation Parameters: select the Interpolation Method: Next Neighbourhood / Inverse Distance (4) / Inverse Distance (9) / Inverse Square Distance (4) / Inverse Square Distance (9); the Length Resolution: Distance of the Interpolation Points in Length, for a metric Main System in Meters or Feet, for a geographic Main System in Meters which will be converted into Degrees internally.
When Adjustment is finished press „Calculate“ -> the Profile is drawn into the PictureBox of the Height Profiles Window. Move the Mouse in the PictureBox to get the current Length and Height Information at the Position of the Mouse Pointer.
Most of the Open Carto Database Data (openCartoDB***.xml) Object Classes (Themes) define an Attribute which has (distinct) Values that define the Cartographic Appeareance of Features of this Theme (see Chapter „Data Import“ / Section „open Carto Database Data“ below for more Details). For example, Point Features may also be represented by an Vector Symbol, Line Features may have different Linewidth.
See also Tutorial "CombinedTutorial.htm".
Point Symbols, Line Styles, Area Styles and Area Hatches
MensorGIS defines a Triangle, a Square and a Rhomb as Point Symbol and Texture Bitmaps as Area Hatches; also in Cartographic Style more Colors are available. You may change the Assignment of the Symbol Style and Color for a whole Object Class or for distinct Objects which have a distinct Attribute Value.
Remark 1: The Point Symbols and Line Styles are also printed into PDF Output; Area Styles and Hatches are not supported. Non-solid Line Styles can have Width "1" only.
Remark 2: The Change is formulated like a Database UPDATE Statement.
Change of Symbol and Style Assignment using Style Editor: Menu „ Cartography – Style Editor“ -> the Window „Style Editor“ is shown: At first select the Graphic Type (Point/Line/Area) and then the Graphic Style:
Form: for Point Features choose a Symbol, for Line Features choose a Line Type, and for Area Features choose an Area Style or Hatch;
Size: for Point Features choose the Size, for Line Features the LineWidth;
Color: for Point, Line and Area Features choose one of 10 Colors.
The small PictureBox at the bottom shows the currently chosen Style. The Target of Change can either be a Layer (containing the same Graphic Type!) or all Features of an Object Class or distinct Features having a distinct Attribute Value. After selecting the Target of Change:
in case of Layer just press the Button „Change“;
in case of whole Object Class choose the Object Class, choose Attribute Condition >WHOLE_CLASS< and then press the Button „Change“;
in case of distinct Features choose the Object Class, choose the apropriate Attribute, enter the Attribute Value and then press the Button „Change“.
After pressing the Button „Change“ a MessageBox says how many Feature were changed and the Plot Area of MensorGIS is updated.
Most of the Open Carto Database Data (openCartoDB***.xml) Object Classes (Themes) define an Attribute which has (distinct) Values that define the Cartographic Appeareance of Features of this Theme (see Chapter „Data Import“ / Section „open Carto Database Data“ below for more Details). Point Features may also be represented by an Icon which is based on an Image File (e.g. *.jpg, *.bmp, *.gif). Image Files in the /bin/Debug/Icons Directory of the MensorGIS Project may be used as Icon Files.
See also Tutorial "OpenCartoDBTutorial.htm".
Point Icons
Some Icons are defined for the Attribute „religion“ of the Theme „sanctuaries“ . You may change the Assignment between the Attribute Values and the Icon Files, if you prefer other Icons. Optionally the Transparency Mode for white Pixels can be activated. The Scale and the Orientation of the Icons may also be adapted to your preferences.
The Icons' Display Mode can be set On and Off; Mode Off means that Points of a distinct Color are plotted/printed instead.
Remark: The Icons are also printed into PDF Output. You can set the preferred Icon Directory via the Preferences in the „Extras“ Menu (for details see Chapter „Preferences“).
Change of Icon Assignment using Icon Manager: Menu „ Cartography – Icon Manager“ -> the Window „Icon Manager“ is shown: At first select the Theme (Object Class) and then the Attribute Values of the Icon-relevant Attribute -> current assigned Icon File is shown. To change the Icon File, select the desired File in the Icon File ComboBox -> the Icon is shown. The CheckBox for Transparency of White Color allows to alter the Transparency Mode. After pressing the Button „Save“ the Plot Area of MensorGIS is updated.
Change of Icon Geometry using Icon Manager: Menu „ Cartography – Icon Manager“ -> the Window „Icon Manager“ is shown: At first select the Theme (Object Class) and then the Scale (in Percent) or the Orientation you would prefer. After pressing the Button „Save“ the Plot Area of MensorGIS is updated.
Adjustment of Display Mode of Point Icons: Choose Menu „ Cartography – Icons Off“ or click „Point Icon“ in the Status Bar to set the Display Mode for the Point Icons Off.
Adjustment of Display Mode of Point Icons: Choose Menu „ Cartography – Icons On“ or click „Point Icon“ in the Status Bar to set the Display Mode for the Point Icons On.
The Cartographic Atlas Viewer loads and presents 4 Datasets:
Countries as Area Features (countries.shp)
Lakes as Area Features (lakes.shp)
Rivers as Line Features (rivers.shp)
Cities, Peaks and Sanctuaries as Point Features (openCartoDBworld.xml)
The Window „Atlas Viewer“ lets you open the Attributive Query Window. Query for a Country, Lake, River, City, Peak or Sanctuary in this Window. The two ComboBoxes let you select the Category and a distinct Feature Name. After executing the Query a RichTextBox shows the Extents of the Features found. The Button „Zoom to Query Result“ lets you Zoom to the last Query's Result.
Remark: The Query Operator "DISTINCT" takes a strict String Comparison, whereas the Query Operator "LIKE" also accepts Parts of a String.
Start Atlas Viewer: choose Menu „Cartography – Atlas Viewer“ -> a Question asks if you want to delete the current Project DataSet -> click "No" if you want to save it first, click "Yes" if the Atlas Loading Process should start. Another MessageBox informs that some DataSets will be loaded and you will have to confirm. When loading is finished a MessageBox informs you about.
Attributive Query with Atlas Viewer: Click „Open Query“ to open the attributive Query Window. Select at first a Category (Countries/Lakes/Rivers/Cities/Peaks/Sanctuaries) and the the Name of a distinct Feature -> in the Query Window the Selection is done for you. Perform a Query by pressing "Query" (like described in Section Executing Queries). If the Query was successful click the Button „Zoom to Query Result“ to Zoom to the Features which are selected as the Query's Result.
Remark: If you close the Window „Atlas Viewer“ by mistake, just click the Atlas Viewer Menu again; the DataSets won't be loaded again!
The Cartographic Weather Viewer loads and presents 4 local Datasets:
Coastlines as Line Features (50m_coastline.shp)
Countries Boundaries as Line Features (ne_50m_admin_0_boundary_lines_land.shp)
Lakes as Area Features (50m_lakes.shp)
Rivers as Line Features (50m_rivers_lake_centerlines.shp)
The Weather Data are downloaded at the instant from a NASA Data Server, which provides Weather Data of all Airports in the World. Each Airport has a 4-letter Identity Code (ICAO): the first letter indicates the Region (Part of Continent), the second letter indicates the Country and the last two letter designate the Airport. You need your Internet Connection open to use this Functionality (ISDN sufficient).
Start Weather Viewer: choose Menu „Cartography – Weather Viewer“ -> a Question asks if you want to delete the current Project DataSet -> click "No" if you want to save it first, click "Yes" if the Weather Loading Process should start. Another MessageBox informs that some DataSets will be loaded and you will have to confirm. When loading of the local Base Datasets is finished a MessageBox informs you about. Then you have to enter the Number of Airports for which the Weather Data should be downloaded (up to 105 Airports). Another MessageBox informs you that the Download begins; confirm this MessageBox and watch the Data coming up. At the end of the Download a last MessageBox says that all Datasets are retrieved.
For each Airport one Point Feature and four Text Features are created: the Point Feature contains all Information in its Attributes; the Color of this Feature indicates the Sky Conditions: orange: clear / cyan: partly cloudy / grey: mostly cloudy / black: overcast / green: unknown. The four Text Features give the ICAO Code and Country of the Airport, the Temperature and the Pressure.
Remark: Of course the Text Features overlap each other, so use the Zooming Functionality to get better view!
Import/Export System
Before the Data Import as well the Main (Coordinate) System as well as the Import/Export System have to be adjusted. How to adjust the Reference Systems see Chapter above „Adjustment of Reference Systems“.
Remark: You can set the preferred Data Directory via the Preferences in the „Extras“ Menu (for details see Chapter „Preferences“).
DXF
Via the de-facto-Standard „DXF“ (Drawing Exchange Format) CAD Elements and Texts can be imported into MensorGIS. Routines are implemented for Objects, which are denoted in DXF with „POINT“, „LINE“, „POLYLINE“, „3DFACE“ or „TEXT“ . Beware: The „3DFACE“ consists in DXF of maximum four Points and differs therefore from the Polygon Definition in MensorGIS (any Boundary Point Number, but no internal Triangulation). Also the Limits (MBR) and the corresponding Layers get imported.
Import of DXF Data: choose Menu „File – Import – DXF“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired DXF File (*.dxf) . Remark: If Zero Points/Lines/Areas are read, then try to save the DXF File in a (ASCII) Text Editor and start the Import again; reason for the problem: Line End differs between UNIX and Windows.
Shape File
Via the de-facto-Standard „Shape File“ (*.shp) Geo Objects can be imported into MensorGIS. Also the corresponding Attribute Data inclusive Data Schema (*.dbf) get imported. Routines are implemented for Objects, which are denoted in the Shape Definition with „POINT“, „POLYLINE“ or „POLYGON“ (Types 1, 3 and 5). Also the Limits (MBR) and the Shape File Name as new Object Class get imported.
Limitations: More PolyLines which belong to one „POLYLINE“ in the Shape File are splitted into independent PolyLines; in the same way more Polygons which belong to one „POLYGON“ in the Shape File are splitted into independent Polygons. But Inner Boundarys of Areas („Object with Hole“) can be imported as "White Polygons". The Attribute Pointers (*.shx) are not used – as in many other Programs.
Beware: The Functionalities needed to read the DBF File are based on the FoxPro 9.0 Driver. If you get an Error Message reading the DBF File install this Driver also included in the ZIP File.
Remark: the FoxPro 9.0 Driver limitates the Length of Attribute Names to 10 Characters; if a DBF File contains longer Names (e.g. saved using commercial Solutions), then the Import can't get the Attribute Information.
Import of Shape Files: choose Menu „File – Import – ShapeFile“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired Shape File (*.shp) .
GML
The XML-based GML Format (Geography Markup Language) allows the interoperable Exchange of Geodata independently from firm-spezific Formats. Routines are implemented for the Simple Features of GML2 „point“, „lineString“ and „polygon“. Precondition for the Import is the existence of an XSD-Schema which fits to the Data.
Limitations: Only the Format of ESRI / FME is fully supported; other GML Data are not read completely (only Geometry / not all Attributes). Inner Boundaries of Area Objects („Object with Hole“) can be imported as "White Polygons". The Limits (MBR) get imported, but not the Reference System; the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User.
Remark: There are a lot of GML 'Dialects', depending which Institution saved them or which commercial Solution was used. So maybe only Geometry can be read and Attribute Information not.
Import of GML2 Data: choose Menu „File – Import – GML2“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired GML File (*.gml) .
GPX
For the XML-based GPX Format (GPS Exchange Format), also used in OpenStreetMap, Import for the Track, Route and Waypoint Data without Attributes is implemented. Because the Reference System gets not imported, the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User.
Import of GPX Data: choose Menu „File – Import – GPX“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired GPX File (*.gpx) containing Track, Route or Waypoint Data.
KML
For the XML-based KML Format (Keyhole Markup Language), used in Google Earth, Import for the Placemark Data without Attributes is implemented for the Types "Point", "LineString" and "Polygon" in ASCII Format; for each Type a separate Object Class is created. Because the Reference System gets not imported, the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User. Inner Boundaries of Area Objects („Object with Hole“) can be imported as "White Polygons".
Import of KML Files: choose Menu „File – Import – KML“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired KML File (*.kml) containing Placemarks.
CSV Data (Comma Separated Values)
Some Data which contain Coordinates don't have typical GIS Data Formats. For example you may have Cities with Population Data saved in an Excel Sheet and you export these Data into an ASCII File with a distinct Separator between the Columns. Such Data can be read by MensorGIS by creating a new Object Class or by using an Object Class already defined in a Data Schema. The only thing you have to do is to match certain Colums of the ASCII File to certain Attributes of an Object Class.
E.g. the ASCII-File-based Format of World Cities Population Data by (?) can be read using this Functionality. For parts of this big File, like for a single Country, the Memory of Mensor GIS may be sufficient. Because the Reference System gets not imported, the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User.
Import of CSV Data: choose Menu „File – Import – CSV Data“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired CSV Data File (*.txt or *.dat). The Window „Import CSV Points“ is shown, in which there are four Tasks to do:
At first choose or type in the Separator (just one Character!) which is between the Columns of the CSV File and Press the Button „Start Prescan“ -> at the left side of the Section „Assignment“ the Elements of the first Column of the CSV File should appear.
Then choose either „Create new Object Class“ or select one of the Object Classes of the current Project Data Set -> at the right side of the Section „Assignment“ the Attributes and Coordinates of the selected Object Class appear.
To match the Columns of the CSV File to the Attributes of the Object Class, assign a CSV Element to a Class Attribute by selecting one Pair left and right side an then press the Button „Add“ -> in the DataGrid below the two Selections appear; if you want to clear all Entries of the DataGrid press the Button „Clear“ .
At last press the Button „Start Import“ -> the Point Features should appear in the Graphics Plot Area and a MessageBox tells how many Features were imported.
Options: If the Coordinates in the CSV File are scaled, you may enter a Factor for each Direction (X/Y) to adjust the Coordinates to the Reference System. If there is a first row in the CSV File that describes the data, you may activate the CheckBox „Ignore first Line“ .
Remark: Only Point Features can be imported because Line or Area Features are more complex Structures which may be defined to differently in an ASCII Text File.
Open Carto Database Data
The XML-based openCartoDB Format was created for Cartographic Perposes of MensorGIS. It supports Point, MulitLine and Area Objects and DTM-like Grid-Line Points. These Data can be visualized by MensorGIS in a Cartographic Manner. For these Data the Main Reference System always is WGS84/geographic, so the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User to this System.
Remark: For this Data Format the Import of each Object Class was implemented separatedly to display the Information in a Cartographic Manner: e.g. Cities get Points of different Size, Sanctuaries get different Symbols or Point Icons (see Chapter above), Traffic Lines get different Line Types automatically when importing the Data Sets.
See also Tutorial "OpenCartoDBTutorial.htm".
Import of Open Carto Database Data: choose Menu „File – Import – openCartoDB“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Choose here the desired openCartoDB File (*.xml) .
Export System
Before the Data Export as well the Main (Coordinate) System as well as the Import/Export System have to be adjusted. How to adjust the Reference Systems see Chapter above „Adjustment of Reference Systems“.
DXF
CAD Elements and Texts can be exported from MensorGIS into the de-facto-Standard „DXF“ (Drawing Exchange Format) . Objects are created, which are denoted in DXF with „POINT“, „LINE“, „POLYLINE“ or „TEXT“ . Beware: „POLYLINE“ is used for Export as well for PolyLines as well as for Polygons in MensorGIS, because the Definitions for Polygons differ (in MensorGIS no internal Partitioning is implemented to represent Elements like 3DFACE). PolyLines are exported as open „POLYLINE“ Objects, Polygons as closed „POLYLINE“ Objects (End Point is the same as the Starting Point). Also the Limits (MBR) and the corresponding Layers get exported.
Export of DXF Data: choose Menu „File – Export – DXF“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name for the DXF File (*.dxf) .
Shape File
Geo Objects can be exported from MensorGIS into the de-facto-Standard „Shape File“ (*.shp). Also the corresponding Attribute Data inclusive Data Schema (*.dbf) and the corresponding Attribute Pointers (*.shx) are exported. Routines are implemented for the Objects, which are denoted in the Shape-Definition with „POINT“, „POLYLINE“ or „POLYGON“ (Types 1, 3 and 5).
Limitations: More PolyLines which belong to one „POLYLINE“ are splitted into independent PolyLines; in the same way more Polygons which belong to one „POLYGON“ are splitted into independent Polygons. Inner Boundaries of Areas („Object with Hole“) can be exported.
Beware: The Functionalities needed to read the DBF File are based on the FoxPro 9.0 Driver. If you get an Error Message reading the DBF File install this Driver also included in the ZIP File. Also the Limits get exported.
Remark: the FoxPro 9.0 Driver limitates the Length of Attribute Names to 10 Characters; if you create longer Names or import such from other Formats, then the Export will shorten these Names.
Export of Shape Files: choose Menu „File – Export – ShapeFile“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name for the corresponding Shape Files (*.shp / *.shx / *.dbf) .
GML
The XML-based GML Format (Geography Markup Language) allows the interoperable Exchange of Geodata independently from firm-spezific Formats. Routines are implemented for the Simple Features of GML 2 „point“, „lineString“ and „polygon“. Besides the geometric and attributive Data also the corresponding Data Schema in form of a fitting XSD-Schema gets exported. Also the Limits (MBR) and the adjusted Import/Export System get exported. Limitations: The Export is implemented in the specific „GML-Dialect“ of ESRI / FME. Inner Boundaries of Areas („Object with Hole“) can be exported.
Remark: There are a lot of GML 'Dialects', depending which Institution saved them or which commercial Solution was used. So maybe only Geometry can be read and Attribute Information not.
Export of GML 2 Data: choose Menu „File – Export – GML2“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name for the corresponding GML Files (*.gml / *.xsd) .
SVG
For Visualization of Geodata often Internet Browsers are used. SVG can be displayed by many Browsers – at least after Installation of a Plug-In. The Export of Objects is implemented for the SVG Types „CIRCLE“, „LINE“, „POLYLINE“, „POLYGON“ and „TEXT“.
The Export offers different Mapping Projections. You have to keep in mind, that only the Cylinder Map Projections are usable for the whole Earth. The Cone and Azimutal Map Projections allow only to display each one Half of a Sphere (Northern or Southern Hemisphere) . The Main Latitude is set per Default to 45 Degrees North, the Main Merdian to 0 Degrees. To change these Values see next Chapter „Preferences/SVG Map Projections“.
See also Tutorial "ProjectionsTutorial.htm".
Export in SVG Format: choose Menu „File – Export – SVG“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name for the SVG File (*.svg) and confirm with „OK“ . If geographic Coordinates are adjusted in the Main (Coordinate) System, the desired Map Projection (Cylinder /Cone /Azimutal Projection) can be defined by an Input Dialog.
GPX
For the XML-based GPX Format (GPS Exchange Format), also used in OpenStreetMap, Export for the Track, Route and Waypoint Data without Attributes is implemented. Because the Reference System gets not imported, the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User.
Export of GPX Data: choose Menu „File – Export – GPX“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Answer the Question if Track, Route or Waypoint Data should be exported. Type in here the desired Name of the GPX File (*.gpx) to be exported.
KML
For the XML-based KML Format (Keyhole Markup Language), used in Google Earth, Export for the Placemark Data without Attributes is implemented for the Types "Point", "LineString" and "Polygon" in ASCII Format. Because the Reference System gets not imported, the Import/Export System must be adjusted manually by the User. Inner Boundaries of Areas („Object with Hole“) can be exported.
Export of KML Files: choose Menu „File – Export – KML“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name of the KML File (*.kml) to be exported.
Open Carto Database Data
The XML-based openCartoDB Format was created for Cartographic Perposes of MensorGIS. It supports Point, MulitLine and Area Objects and DTM-like Grid-Line Points. These Data can be visualized by MensorGIS in a Cartographic Manner (see Data Import). For these Data the Main Reference System is either geographic/WGS84 or UTM/WGS84 (but the Import/Export System is not needed to be adjusted manually). Up to 3 Files are created: each for the Graphic Types Points, Lines and Areas.
Restriction: Only special Open Carto DB Object Classes can be saved:
Export of Open Carto Database Data: if not Open Carto DB Data were imported, then rename Features with Names listed above using the Schema Tree View (see "Manipulation of Object Class Names and States by a Tree View"); then choose Menu „File – Export – openCartoDB“ -> the Choose File Window of Windows is shown. Type in here the desired Name of the openCartoDB File (*.xml) to be exported. Answer the Question if geographic or projected Coordinates should be exported; if projected Coordinates are chosenm then type in the Central Meridian of the desired UTM Zone.
Preferences allow you to adapt graphical Properties, Directory Names and Redimensioning of the Data Arrays, which is done so that very different Calculations and Visualizations can be done, e.g. Areas with much Boundary Points, Attribute Data, Topological Analysis.
Remark: Preferences should be set after starting up MensorGIS (before you work with Projects).
Beware: Don't play to much with Redimensioning, you may exceed the 2MB-Restriction of VB.NET.
Snap Radius
The Snap Radius controls the Selection of Objects with the Mouse Pointer. Per Default 5 Screen Units (Pixel) are set. A to small Snap Radius needs a very exact Positioning with the Mouse, a to big Snap Radius yields no distinct Selection (more Objects).
Adjusting the Snap Radius: Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Snap Radius“ -> Type in the new Snap Radius into the Input Dialog and save with „OK“ .
Zooming Factor
Der Zooming Factor controls the Factor of Maximizing / Minimizing when Zooming In / Zooming Out. Per Default a Value of 5 is set. A to small Zooming Factor needs more Zooming Levels, a to big Zooming Factor needs a very exact Positioning of the Mid Point (Zoom To Point).
Adjusting the Zooming Factor: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Zoom Factor“ -> Type in the new Zooming Factor into the Input Dialog and save with „OK“ .
Redimensioning of Data Arrays
The Geometry Elements / Geo Objects inclusive Topology and Object Classes inclusive Attribute Data are stored in form of indexed Structures. For the Number of storable Elementes a certain Value is set. If the Dimensioning of the Structures is not sufficient, these Dimensioning can be increased for each Data Component separately.
Beware: Limitations may occur because of VB.NET Memory Limits of 2MB.
Redimensioning for Colors: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Colors“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning for Layers: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Layers“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning for Object Classes during Import: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Object Classes Import“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning for Attributes per Object Class: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Attributes per Object Class“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning for Area References: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Area References“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning for Topological References: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Topological References“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning the Number of Triangulation Points: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Triangulation Points“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning the Number of Triangulation Triangles: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Redimensioning – Triangulation Triangles“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning the Number of Traverse Points: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Traverse Points“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
Redimensioning the Number of Place Markers: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Place Markers“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Dimensioning by pressing „OK“ .
SVG Map Projections
Parameters for Cartographic Mapping into SVG Files may be set to your needs.
Pole Distance of the Central Latitude: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – SVG Map Projections – Pole Distance Central Latitude“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Pole Distance by pressing „OK“ .
Main Meridian: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – SVG Map Projections – Central Meridian“ -> Type in the new Value into the Input Dialog and update the Main Meridian by pressing „OK“ .
Directory Settings
Directories for CAD/GIS Data, Net Adjustment Data and Cartographic Icons may be set to your needs.
Preferred Data Directory: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Data Directory“ -> copy desired Data Directory from the Windows Explorer Adresse Line into the InputBox and Save by pressing „OK“
Preferred Net Data Directory: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Net Data Directory“ -> copy desired Net Data Directory from the Windows Explorer Adresse Line into the InputBox and Save by pressing „OK“
Preferred Icon Directory: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Icon Directory“ -> copy desired Icon Directory from the Windows Explorer Adresse Line into the InputBox and Save by pressing „OK“
Import Settings
For big Files of any Data Type the Import Process slows down if Import Display State is set "active" (Default). You may set this State to "passive" to get "quiet" Import. The currently used Setting is underlayed light green, the other light red.
Import Display State: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Import Display – active“ -> Import Display ("verbose").
Import Display State: choose Menu „Extras – Set Preferences – Import Display – passive“ -> no Import Display ("quiet").
Export Preferences to File
Remark: You should not edit the MensorGIS Preferences File manually; use better this Export Function.
Export to File: choose Menu „Extras – Save Preferences – Export -> your current Settings of the Preferences are saved into the MensorGIS Preferences File (mgisprefs.cml).
Active Digitizer Function
The active Digitizer Function is displayed in the second Row of the State Bar on the left side. Possible Values are: „Digitizer Off“, „Point“, „Line“, „PolyLine“, „Rectangle“, „Poly-Area“, „Delete Object“ and „Measure Distance“.
Scale and Reference System
Scale of the Graphics Plot and Type and Datum of the Main Systems (Reference System) are the first Display Elements above the Digitizer Function in the first Row of the State Bar. The Scale belongs to the Screen Size. For more Information about the Main System see above „Adjustment of Reference Systems“.
Current Mouse Position
In the Mid of the first Row of the State Bar the current Coordinates of the Mouse Pointer converted into the Main System are displayed. „X“ and „Y“ denote either Latitude and Longitude (geographic) or Easting and Northing (projected).
Number of Objects
The Numbers of active (not deleted) and visible Objects – i.e. the Point, Line, PolyLine (MultiLine), Area and Text Objects – and the Number of Intermediate Points in the Project Data Set are displayed in the first and second Row of the State Bar on the right side. While performing a longer Import you can watch the process when these Numbers increase.
Number of Layers and Object Classes
The Numbers of Layers and Object Classes in the Project Data Set are displayed in the State Bar on the right side.
File State
While Opening or Saving of Data in the internal Format of MensorGIS the File State is displayed. Above the State Bar on the left side the currently opened File is displayed; beneath the Total State of the Reading / Saving Process can be watched by an increasing Bar. While Saving big Project Data Sets it may take time until the corresponding DOM Tree for the XML-based Output is created. For Reading the access on the Attribute Values was optimized.
MensorGIS Version 1.1.8, Stand: 14. November 2012