Import data from Baseline

[kdberends]

This issue is to document approaches on how to get data from Baseline so that FM2PROF can use it

[kdberends]

Elevation data in Baseline *.gdb files is stored as a Terrain Dataset. This data is not directly accessible using Python or other open source tools, and is ArcGIS proprietary.

Our approach:

1. extract the data using GIS tools to a readable format (e.g. CSV).
2. Implement a CSV importer for point data
3. Make FM2PROF work on point data alone
4. Later, see if there is a better workflow to access point data

How to get to the data

Here's the tested workflow on getting data from Arc. You will need access to the 3D Analyst toolbox first:

1. Select "ArcGIS Advanced (Concurrent)" License in ArcGis Administrator"
2. In ArcMap, choose customize -> extensions and select 3D Analyst

Then to get the data:

1. Convert Terrain to Tin using the toolbox: 3D Analyst Tools -> Conversion -> From Terrain -> Terrain to TIN
2. Convert Tin to Point using the toolbox: 3D Analyst Tools -> Conversion -> From Tin -> TIN Node
3. Add XYZ data: Data Management Tools -> Feature -> Add XY Coordinates
4. Export to *.dbf: left click on feature -> data -> export
5. Open QGIS, import the points, right click on feature -> Export -> save feature as -> save as csv