What is geocoding in Pythagoras?

Modified on Mon, 19 Jan at 11:46 AM

What is geocoding in Pythagoras?

Geocoding is the function in Pythagoras that automatically converts survey measurements into a structured drawing. Instead of importing raw points and drawing everything manually afterwards, geocoding defines how objects are created and displayed during import.



What does geocoding do?

In a geocoded survey, each measured point contains not only coordinates but also a code. This code describes what the point represents, such as a point object, a line, an arc or text.

During import, Pythagoras:

  • reads the survey codes

  • interprets them using predefined rules

  • and automatically generates drawing objects

The result is an immediately usable and consistent drawing.



Which components are involved?

Geocoding always relies on three elements working together:

  • Field data file
    The survey file containing coordinates and codes entered in the field.

  • CDF file (Code Description File)
    Defines how each code is interpreted and which type of object is created.

  • Library file (LIB)
    Contains the symbols, line styles and patterns used in the drawing.

Together, these elements determine how survey data is converted into a drawing.



Why use geocoding?

Geocoding shifts interpretation work from the drawing office to the field, where context is clear. This offers clear advantages:

  • less manual drawing

  • consistent plans

  • fewer interpretation errors

  • faster processing of survey data

This is especially valuable for repeated or complex surveys.



What defines the final result?

Geocoding itself is the mechanism. The final result depends on:

  • how you measure

  • which codes you use

  • how the CDF is structured

  • and which library is active

These choices determine how automated the process is and which conventions are applied.



IN SUMMARY

Geocoding in Pythagoras is the link between survey data and drawing output. With well-chosen codes and a properly configured CDF, measurements can be converted automatically into clear and consistent plans.


Geocoding is not a unique concept. Other surveying and CAD software also automatically converts survey codes into drawing objects using predefined rules.

This is commonly referred to as:

  • feature coding or linework processing
  • feature definitions or survey linework

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