Framework Data Content - Geodetic Control Related Topics

NSDI Training Tracks:

An initiative to define areas,
topics, and materials for
Course Information training within the NSDI.

The National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI) Framework is a collaborative ISO 19100 Series:
initiative to develop a set of commonly used geographic datasets that are Suite of standards
compatible based upon spatial location and content. The Framework developed for geographic
data and datasets. The
approach allows data collected for variety of reasons and agencies to work
most notable is ISO 19135
together seamlessly; which can ultimately reduce project costs and increase which pertains to metadata.
interagency cooperation. The Framework Data Content Base Standards Suite
dictates the requirements for Framework data. ANSI Standards:
Similar work to ISO, but
standards directly apply to
This course covers the fundamentals of the Framework Data Theme: Geodetic
data created within the
Control as developed by the Framework Data Content Standard. It is designed United States.
for users who are both interested in an overview of the Framework Data
Content Standard Geodetic Control theme as well as designers and
developers implementing Framework data, and associated tools specific to
Geodetic Control data.

Prerequisites
• General Understanding of geodetic referencing and horizontal and vertical datum's
• General Understanding of GIS, Geospatial Data and Metadata
• Familiarity with the Federal Geographic Data Committee (FGDC)
• Familiarity with the National Spatial Data Infrastructure (NSDI)
• Basic knowledge of Geographic Data Standards (specifically ISO 19100 series)
• Completion of Framework Data Content Base Standard Course
 Learning Objectives
Understand Geodetic Control
Data
Course modules Comprehend basics of
Geodetic Control framework
• Understanding Geodetic Control standard

• Geodetic Control (Part 4) of the Framework Data Content Standard Understand how to implement
the standard
• Implementing the Geodetic Control Standard

• Course Review

Estimated Time
Estimated time for the entire course is 100 minutes.
Module 1: Understanding Geodetic Control

Time Requirement
Topics
Estimated time for this module is 30 minutes
• What are Geodetic Control Data

• Types of Geodetic Control Data

• Geodetic Control in Action

• Module Exercise and Summary

First Topic
What are Geodetic Control Data
What is Geodetic Control Data
Geodetic control is normally established by, either measurements of angles and
distances or the Global Positioning System (GPS). GPS uses electronically measured ranges
between ground receivers and a constellation of satellites operated by the US Department of
Defense. No matter which measuring system is employed, geodetic control is established in a
hierarchical manner. More densely spaced points are established by starting from a most precise,
but rather sparse, network of points. This method is generally less precise but sufficient to meet
most specific user needs.

The various requirements for geodetic control demand different levels of positional accuracy.
Traditionally, geodetic control is categorized as primary, secondary, or supplemental. Primary or
First Order control is used to establish geodetic points and to determine the size, shape, and
movements of the earth. Secondary or Second Order, Class I control is used for network
densification in urban areas and for precise engineering projects. Supplemental or Second Order,
Class II and Third Order control is used for network densification in non-urban areas and for
surveying and mapping projects

In order to ensure the accuracy of land record systems as well as natural resource,
communication, transportation, and other mapping projects, it is essential to have a consistent
coordinate system. The National Spatial Reference System (NSRS), under the management of the A n example of a benchmark marker
http://www.gis.state.mn.us/images/Geodetic%20Control.gif
National Geodetic Survey (NGS) and managed by the Federal Geodetic Control Subcommittee
(FGCS), is the standard in defining the latitude, longitude, elevation, scale, gravity, and
orientation of control points throughout the United States. Both state and local governments have
producers that generate geodetic control data for smaller-scale needs

Today, the technological expansion of GPS has made it possible to perform extremely accurate
geodetic surveys at a fraction of the former cost.

While this is a brief overview of Geodetic Control, the topic and details are beyond the scope of these
materials. Feel free to explore the following website for more information: http://www.ngs.noaa.gov

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Geodetic Control Data in Action
Geodetic Control Data

Geodetic control surveys are usually performed to

establish the basic positional framework from which
supplemental surveying and mapping are performed.
Geodetic control surveys are distinguished by use of
redundant, interconnected, permanently
monumented control points that comprise the
National Spatial Reference System (NSRS) or are
often incorporated into NSRS.
Geodetic control surveys are performed to far more
rigorous accuracy and quality assurance standards
than those for local control surveys for general
engineering, construction, or topographic mapping
purposes. Geodetic control surveys included in
NSRS meet automated data recording, submittal,
project review, and least squares adjustment
requirements established by the Federal Geodetic
Control Subcommittee (FGCS).

A screen capture of the CRSC Data Portal, showing different

next Topic Control points across the SW USA.
http://csrc.ucsd.edu/maps/mapBrowser.html
Geodetic Control in action
Geodetic Control in action

In the example to the right

we see geodetic control
data for the state of
Kentucky. We can get a
clear idea of the set of
control points (geodetic
control) that establish a link
between real world locations
and their correct
corresponding locations via
maps and mapping
applications.

http://kygeonet.ky.gov/ngs/viewer.htm

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Geodetic Control Exercise
Geodetic Control s Module 1 exercise

Geodetic Control data is being applied and used in real world

projects by many Federal, State, and local agencies. These
agencies use Geodetic Control data for a variety of reasons.
Now that you have some basic Geodetic Control knowledge let’s
see some a Geodetic Control data set in action.

Step 1) Open an Internet Browser and proceed to:

http://csrc.ucsd.edu/
Step 2) Explore the California Spatial Data Reference Center
Map Browser
Step 3) Click on several one of the data points on the map
Step 4) Notice the general information that is displayed, explore
the other information you can acquire
Step 5) Close all Internet windows and proceed with
the course

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Module Summary
Module Summary

Understanding Geodetic Control

• Geodetic Control data describe how people delineate a landscape

• Many different Geodetic Control features can be collected, mapped, and utilized for a variety of reasons

• Different control points can serve different purposes.

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Module 2: Geodetic Control (Part 4) of the Framework Data Content Standard
Module 2: Geodetic Control of the Framework Data Content
Standard

Key Terms
Topics
Geodetic Control Framework Standard
• What is the Geodetic Control Standard
Framework
• Purpose for Standard Control Points
Survey
• Goals of the Standard

• Capacities of the Standard

• Standard Related Contact Information

• Module Exercise and Summary

What is the Geodetic Control s standard Quick Facts
Each Framework standard part
was developed and edited by
The Geodetic Control Framework Data Content Standard: thematic experts

Geodetic Control is one of the

• One of the seven themes defined as Framework data seven themes of Framework
• Establishes a baseline for Geodetic Control data collection and data. Each has a separate
distribution standard, some including
• Builds on the Framework Data Content Base Standard and Framework subparts.
Geodetic Control s Standard. All standards use the Framework
Data Content Base Standard as
the foundation for this data.
• Only when a dataset meets the requirements set forth in its thematic
standard part and the Framework Base Standard can it be considered
Framework data.

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Purpose for the Standard
Purpose for the Standard More Information
This part of the Framework Data
Content Standard is applicable
to any geodetic control dataset
This standard provides a common methodology for creating and is intended to facilitate a
datasets of horizontal coordinate values and vertical common methodology to
coordinate values for geodetic control points represented by create, manage, and share
geodetic control datasets from
survey monuments, such as brass disks and rod marks. It various organizations at the
provides a single data structure for relating coordinate values Federal, State, Tribal, and local
obtained by one geodetic survey method (for example, a government levels; academia;
and the private sector.
classical line-of-sight traverse) with coordinate values Although this part does not
obtained by another geodetic survey method (for example, a encompass non-geodetic
Global Positioning System geodetic control survey). control points, such as Public
Land Survey System points,
local government control
points, project control points
for public and private projects,
aerial-photo control points, and
so on, it can be used as a model
for other control points and
coordinated points.

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Goals of the Standard
Goals for the Geodetic Control Standard

• The goal of the Geodetic Control part of the Framework Data Content Standard is to
provide common definitions and syntax to enable collaborative development, use, and
exchange of data specific to Geodetic Control data

• The audience for this part of the standard includes Geodetic Control data
users, maintainers, and distributors. Specific guidance on the implementation of the
data that meets framework specifications for Geodetic Control is outlined

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Capacities of the Standard
Capacities for the Geodetic Control Standard More Information
This part of the Framework Data
The development of this part of the Framework Data Content Standard Content Standard is applicable
will greatly assist in mitigating the following issues: to any geodetic control dataset
and is intended to facilitate a
• Duplication of data and application development common methodology to
create, manage, and share
• Complications exchanging Geodetic Control data and information geodetic control datasets from
various organizations at the
• Difficulties integrating data Federal, State, Tribal, and local
government levels; academia;
• Poor framework/support for analytic activities and the private sector.
Although this part does not
encompass non-geodetic
• Difficulties managing multiple representations of features
control points, such as Public
Land Survey System points,
local government control
points, project control points
for public and private projects,
aerial-photo control points, and
so on, it can be used as a model
for other control points and
coordinated points.

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Contact Info
Who to Contact for Questions about the Geodetic Control s Standard Standard Coordination
Part The FGDC is the responsible
organization for coordinating work
on all parts of the Geographic
Information Framework Data
Federal Geographic Data Committee Secretariat Content Standard. The
c/o U.S. Geological Survey development and maintenance
authority for Part 6: Geodetic
590 National Center Control is held jointly by the U.S.
Reston, Virginia 20192 USA Geological Survey and U.S.
Telephone: (703) 648-5514 Environmental Protection Agency.
Facsimile: (703) 648-5755 The FGDC shall be the sole
Internet (electronic mail): [email protected] organization responsible for direct
coordination with the InterNational
WWW Home Page: http://www.fgdc.gov Committee for Information
Technology Standards (INCITS)
concerning any maintenance or any
other requirements mandated by
INCITS or ANSI.

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Module 2 Exercise
Geodetic Control Module exercise

Now that you have some basic Geodetic Control knowledge let’s
see some a Geodetic Control data set in action.

Step 1) Open an Internet Browser and proceed to:

http://gis.nysdot.gov/geodeticcontrol/
Step 2) Explore the New York State Department of
Transportation Geodetic Control Viewer
Step 3) Click on “identify” and then on one of the data points on
the map
Step 4) Notice the information that is displayed. What types of
reference (geodetic) can your gather from this data?
Step 5) Close all Internet windows and proceed with
the course

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Module Summary
Module summary

• The goal of the Geodetic Control s part of the Framework Data Content Standard is to
provide common definitions and model to enable collaborative development, use, and exchange of
Geodetic Control data.

• Establish the content requirements for the collection and interchange of Geodetic Control
features

• The Geodetic Control part is one of the seven themes of Framework Data

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Module 3: Geodetic Control Requirements
Module 3: Geodetic Control Standard Requirements

Time Requirement

Topics Estimated time for this module is 60 minutes

• Framework Data Content Geodetic Control Standard Requirements

• Encoding and Implementing the Standard

Key Terms
• Module Summary
UML
Coding Elements
Feature Relationships

First Topic
Geodetic Control Standard Requirements
Framework Data Standard Geodetic Control Requirements

In this module you will learn about the three different requirements for Framework
Geodetic Control data, as specified in the standard. Each requirement is addressed as
a separate topic, however more attention may be given to certain requirements as they
are the most crucial requirements for creating Framework quality Geodetic Control
data. Many of the requirements are specific UML features. For these requirements the
a brief description of the component will be included. Please see the UML chart and
associated tables, included as an appendix in the standard for specifics.

Additionally encoding and implementation will be covered briefly. Also note that data
dictionaries, and code lists and standard annex’s are included with the standard
documentation.

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Geodetic Control Requirements Continued
Framework Data Standard Geodetic Control Requirements

The diagram to the right is the UML flow

chart for the Framework Geodetic Control
Standard. This diagram shows the
components and relationships that
comprise the Framework Geodetic Control
Standard. UML is designed to show these
relationships in a generic manner without
specifying a coding language or specific
software needed to complete the task.
For more information about UML visit
http://www.uml.org

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Geodetic Control Requirements Continued
Framework Data Standard Geodetic Control Requirements
The following is a list of the four main UML components to the Geodetic Control Standard including a
brief description of the requirement:

ControlPoint
ControlPoint is a class that contains the identifier for the point, information about horizontal coordinates, accuracy, and datum.
ControlPoint also contains a link to a resource for the point. It also contains an association with the UML class VerticalInformation.

VerticalInformation
VerticalInformation is a class that contains information about vertical coordinates associated with ControlPoint, including the type of height,
accuracy, and datum. This class also contains an association with ControlPoint.

RS_Identifier
RS_Identifier is a class that contains information about the namespace used for the reference system, namely the datum.

HeightType code list

HeightType is a non-exhaustive CodeList of values for the attribute heightType.

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Geodetic Control Requirements Continued
Framework Data Standard Geodetic Control Requirements

2.UML model

The UML diagram

was introduced
earlier, however it is
a major component
in the Geodetic
Control Standard, as
such a larger version
is provided to the
right.

Notice the
relationships and
instances allowed in
the UML diagram

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Geodetic Control Requirements Continued
Encoding and implementation The Bigger Picture

The Framework Standards do not

have a specific application schema
that can be implemented.
The process of encoding is simply formatting or structuring data in a regulated Implementation of the Framework
manner. The Framework standards are encoded by applying the application Standards in relation to data and
schemas through the use of several different modeling and markup languages: tool creation occurs at the thematic
level. Each thematic part complies
with the Framework Base Standard.
• Unified Modeling Language (UML)
As such a layer (for example)
created in accordance with the
• Extensible Markup Language (XML) Framework Geodetic Control part
meets all Framework requirements.
• Geographic Markup Language (GML)

Specific knowledge of each language is important for data and tool designers;
for more information see the Framework Base Standard Training Materials.

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Module Review
Module 3: Geodetic Control Requirements Summary

• Three different requirements, with multiple subparts are specified by the Framework Governmental
Boundaries Standard

• This module covers the specifications for Geodetic Control framework data implementation

• Provides rigid requirements to ensure proper structure and documentation for Geodetic Control data

• UML diagrams and data dictionaries provide specifics for programmers and data creators to develop
Geodetic Control data that meets Framework specifications

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Module 4: Summary
Module 4: Examples, Exercise, and Certificate

Topics
• Geodetic Control Example

• Review Exercise

•Certificate of Completion

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Review Exercise
Review of Geodetic Control

This example
illustrates how
geodetic
control works
and the need
for known
points to tie
the real world
to the way we
define data as
it appears on a
map or in
mapping
applications.

http://principles.ou.edu/earth_figure_gravity/geoid/geoid-ellipsoidal-orthometric_height.jpg

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Exercise
Geodetic Control Exercise

So far we have looked at two separate mapping applications that

show geodetic control points, however there are many more:

1. Open an Internet Browser

2. Pick your favorite search engine (Google, Yahoo, etc)
3. Type in “Geodetic Control Map”
4. Search 3 or 4 different sites and compare them and how
they display Geodetic Control data
5. Now visit:
http://www.granit.unh.edu/geodetic/datasheethttp://www.gra
nit.unh.edu/geodetic/datasheet
6. Compare how New Hampshire shares its Geodetic Data as
compared to some of the other sites. Are there advantages
and/or disadvantages?
7. Close your web browser and continue on with the course.

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Course completion
Course Certificate
Congratulations, you have successfully completed the Framework Geodetic Control s
Standard Training! In order to print the certificate below you will need a copy of
Adobe Acrobat Reader, http://www.adobe.com/products/acrobat/readstep2.html.

After you open the certificate file, type your name and today’s date on the name/date
line and print.

Click here to receive course certificate