Define Coordinate System

Objects and scans may not have a coordinate system associated with them. When working with various objects, or according to overall requirements of a project, it may be necessary to ensure all objects are oriented and positioned correctly. This function is used to define an initial coordinate system to the selected object. This sets a reference system for coordinate conversions, and is required before a coordinate conversion can be performed. Objects with a coordinate system assigned can be used to flag other objects with the same system.

Refer to How Do I? > Understanding Coordinate Systems for a background discussion of relevant components and derivations of coordinate systems. This discussion can help in understanding the significance and use of options in the function presented here.

Related commands:

Define coordinate system

  1. Select the required object.

  2. On the ribbon tab navigate to the Coordinates group and select Define.

  3. Specify a coordinate system either by automatically transferring the coordinate system applied to another object, or specifying manually by clicking the specify system button.
  4. To transfer a coordinate system automatically from another object, give focus to the Specify system by picking object field, then either:

    • Drag and drop the reference object into the field.
    • OR

    • Click on the reference object in the view window.

  5. Alternatively to manually set up a coordinate system to define to select New system... from the or choose from drop-down menu.

    Tip!  Follow the steps in Manually Setting up a Coordinate System here for further assistance.
  6. Add projection scaling to scan points option toggles applying projection scaling and distortion as if transforming from a geocentric coordinate system. This should only be used for raw laser scan data.

  7. Click OK or Apply.