The GeoMap Module - STM Environmental · The GeoMap Module will now appear on your screen as a window named GeoMap that contains three floating toolbars (Navigator, Read, and Write)

GeoMap_Module_GEv4.2_UK, 7Ed_pdf.doc Number of pages: 37 Printed: 23-05-03

The GeoMap Module

GeoEnviron 4.2 Table of Contents

Table of Contents

IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn ..................................................................................................................................................44 Development of the GeoEnviron Program ................................4 The Manual and its Application................................................4

IInnttrroodduuccttiioonn ttoo tthhee GGeeooMMaapp MMoodduullee............................................................................55 History and Application Area of the Module .............................5

BBeehhiinndd tthhee GGeeooMMaapp MMoodduullee....................................................................................................66 Tables and Geoset ...................................................................6 Creating and Opening a Geoset in GeoMap............................6 Map Layers ..............................................................................7 Map Objects ............................................................................8

SSttaarrttiinngg tthhee MMoodduullee........................................................................................................................ 1100

TThhee NNaavviiggaattoorr TToooollbbaarr .............................................................................................................. 1111

TThhee RReeaadd TToooollbbaarr ............................................................................................................................ 1122

TThhee WWrriittee TToooollbbaarr ............................................................................................................................ 1133

EEddiittiinngg IInntteeggrraatteedd MMaapp LLaayyeerrss ...................................................................................... 1144 Drawing a New Feature and Linking it to GeoEnviron ............14 Linking an Existing Feature to GeoEnviron..............................15 Moving a GeoEnviron Linked Feature.....................................17 Deleting a GeoEnviron Linked Feature ...................................17

CCoommmmuunniiccaattiinngg wwiitthh GGeeooEEnnvviirroonn .............................................................................. 1188 Transferring from GeoEnviron to GeoMap..............................18 Transferring from GeoMap to GeoEnviron..............................19

Retrieving a Single Object in GeoEnviron............................. 19 Selecting GeoEnviron Linked Features in GeoMap ............... 19 Retrieving Objects in GeoEnviron from a Selection ............... 21

TThheemmaattiicc MMaappppiinngg .......................................................................................................................... 2222 The Basics..............................................................................22 Drawing Features to Show Site Type Categories .....................22

IInnssttaallllaattiioonn ooff tthhee GGeeooMMaapp MMoodduullee............................................................................ 2244 Installing the MapInfo MapX Program ....................................24 About the GeoEnvir.ini File ....................................................24

Ver. 4.2, 7th Edition, May 2003 - 2 -

GeoEnviron 4.2 Table of Contents

Adapting the GeoEnvir.ini File................................................25

SSeettttiinngg uupp tthhee IInntteeggrraattiioonn wwiitthh aa DDaattaassoouurrccee ............................................ 2266 Starting the Module ...............................................................26 Getting Started ......................................................................26

Creating a Geoset with Background Map Layers .................. 27 Opening a Geoset in GeoMap ........................................... 29 Creating and Opening Integrated Map Layers ..................... 30 Choosing Symbol Style for Integrated Map Layers ................ 33 Choosing Label Properties for Integrated Map Layers ........... 35 Refreshing Integrated Map Layers ....................................... 35 Distributing a Geoset File to Other Users ............................. 36

SSeettttiinngg uupp tthhee IInntteeggrraattiioonn wwiitthh AAnnootthheerr DDaattaassoouurrccee ...................... 3377


GeoEnviron 4.2 Introduction

Introduction

Development of the GeoEnviron Program

In 1994 Geokon began the development of the GeoEnviron Environ-mental Management Database. Since then the system has been improved significantly in breadth as well as functionality. Today, we offer the GeoEnviron system with 15 different modules, broadly designed for the management of various types of registration, inspections and reporting.

The development of the GIS module GeoMap adds another link to the chain of possibilities the system offers.

The Manual and its Application

This manual will go over how to use the GeoEnviron GeoMap module, which is used to integrate GeoEnviron with the GIS program MapInfo MapX.

The manual also contains explanatory notes on some of the fundamental principles to help obtain a fuller understanding of the module. The comprehension of the manual implies a basic knowledge of the GeoEnviron program corresponding to what is described in the course manual GeoEnviron Basics.

Although the manual is designed as course material, it is also useful in connection with private study, provided that the user has a computer with a correct installation of GeoEnviron 4.2 at his/her disposal. However, it would be advantageous if assistance from one or more persons already familiar with the program is at hand.

Please Note! As you will be encouraged to make changes in the database, we advise you to use a copy of the existing database in this phase.

Geokon, May 2003 - by Erik Sten


GeoEnviron 4.2 Introduction to the GeoMap Module

Introduction to the GeoMap Module

In this chapter we will introduce you to the GeoEnviron module GeoMap and give you an overview of its application areas.

History and Application Area of the Module

The first version of the GeoEnviron module GeoMap was developed and released in early 2003.

The development of GeoEnviron GeoMap is based on GeoEnviron´s GIS universe. GeoMap is an embedded solution which means a closer integration between GIS and GeoEnviron than with GIS programs like MapInfo Professional and ArcView. Technically speaking, GeoMap is an ActiveX or OCX component (MapX) that allows developers to integrate MapInfo functionality into existing software.

The integration between GeoEnviron and GeoMap makes it possible to work with data from the GeoEnviron database in a map window in the GeoMap module. The integration expects map coordinates of points, lines, and polygons to be placed in the GeoEnviron database, and the integration can generate their geography by transfering coordinate data from the database to local MapInfo tables.

Database records can be displayed as points on map layers in GeoMap. Sites, surveys, and remediation projects can also be displayed as polygons and polylines on map layers. It is possible to create multiple layers displaying different types of records in different map projections. Map layers can be edited by adding new features or copying features from other MapInfo tables. Features on map layers can be moved or deleted. Any changes are automatically saved to the GeoEnviron database.

When performing a search and retrieval in GeoEnviron, the search result can be transfered to GeoMap in order to display on a map the location of the record(s).

A single GeoEnviron linked feature on a map layer in GeoMap can be searched for and retrieved in the database. A map layer can be searched for GeoEnviron linked features that fall within a search area having the shape of a circle, a marquee or other polygon. Database records found by the search will be shown on a list in GeoMap from which they can be retrieved individually or all together on a list in an overview window of a GeoEnviron module.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Behind the GeoMap Module

Behind the GeoMap Module

This chapter contains some background information about the GeoMap module.

Tables and Geoset

In GeoMap all data are organised into MapInfo tables that are attached to a Geoset. A Geoset contains a list of all open tables and information on how they should be displayed.

Existing MapInfo tables that contain graphical objects (having x and y coordinates) can be opened in GeoMap and added as map layers to the active Geoset. MapInfo tables containing map coordinates from the GeoEnviron database can be created in GeoMap and added as map layers to the active Geoset.

For more users to run the GeoMap module with a common GeoEnviron database, a Geoset file must be placed locally on each client machine. The path to the Geoset and its filename is registered in the GeoEnviron initialisation file, GeoEnvir.ini. Users of GeoMap that use the same path and filename for their Geoset, can all use the initialisation file that is placed on the server where GeoEnviron is installed.

Should a GeoMap user prefer a different path to the Geoset or another name of the Geoset file, then the path to the Geoset and its filename must be specified in a local copy of the GeoEnviron initialisation file, GeoEnvir.ini, that is placed on the client machine.

More GeoMap users can share the same MapInfo tables if these table files are placed on a common server. An advantage of this setup is that any changes to a MapInfo table made by one user are automatically shown in the GeoMap window of other users. Thus the GeoMap window always reflects the actual contents of the MapInfo tables.

Only users having write permission to the server where the common MapInfo tables are placed can edit the tables using the various tools in the GeoMap module.

Creating and Opening a Geoset in GeoMap

When you want to work with data in GeoMap you should first create a Geoset and add the MapInfo tables you would like to work with. This is done using the program Geoset Manager that can be activated from the GeoMap module.



When a Geoset has been created it should be opened in the GeoMap module. From now on this Geoset is automatically opened every time the GeoMap module is started.

Please notice, that if you delete, rename, or move a MapInfo table that is attached to a Geoset, then you will no longer be able to open the Geoset file. Before performing one of these actions you must start the GeoMap module, open the Geoset and remove the table in question using the Layer Control dialog. The Geoset is automatically saved when closing the Layer Control dialog window.

Map Layers

In GeoMap a number of transparent maps can be stacked, displaying each open table as a separate layer. Thus each layer may contain different aspects of the complete map - e.g. county limits, groundwater catchment areas, various site types (displayed with a unique symbol) and background map layers.

Below is shown an example of a map having a number of map layers.

Map layers / themes: Sites

Geology

Drainage areas

Urban districts

Contours Visible map

While raster layers (background map layers) are bitmap graphics - i.e. images containing a predefined number of points refering to x and y axes, with individual points having a color, all the other map layers are based on vector graphics.

This means that the curves, circles, lines, and points (symbols), and any text attached to these layers, are defined by a relatively low number of points plus a number of equations describing the shape of the connecting lines. These vector based map layers are



- as opposed to the bitmap based - independent of scale. They can be scaled to any size and resolution without getting the characteristic sharp edges known from bitmap graphics.

Map layers can have different settings in GeoMap. Using the Layer Control in GeoMap you can choose whether map layers should be visible or not.

You can alter the display order, choose which layers should be editable, how layers should be displayed, and you can also add or remove layers. In GeoMap more map layers can be editable at the same time.

The map layer settings that have been chosen are automatically saved to the Geoset when closing Layer Control in GeoMap.

Map Objects

A map is constructed by adding layers to a Geoset in GeoMap. Items that can be placed on vector based map layers are named map objects. Map objects can be divided into four basic types:

• Region objects that are closed objects (polygons, ellipses, rectangles, etc.) covering a region. They are typically used to visualise national border lines, county limits, post code zones, groundwater catchment areas, etc.

• Point objects that mark the location of individual data points. E.g. contaminated land sites, groundwater wells, etc.

• Line objects that are open objects (lines, polylines, and arcs) of a certain length. These can visualise streets, streams, railway lines, power cables, etc.

• Text objects that are labels describing a map object. The different type of objects can not be combined into one GeoEnviron linked map layer. Separate layers are used for each object type you want to display on the map, except for text labels that are always placed in a GeoEnviron linked map layer containing region, point, or line objects.



The illustration above shows the GeoMap module with a map that consists of a number of layers; a raster image, sites, streams, groundwater catchment areas, and water wells.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Starting the Module

Starting the Module

Start by selecting the menu item File|GeoMap.

The GeoMap Module will now appear on your screen as a window named GeoMap that contains three floating toolbars (Navigator, Read, and Write) on which functions and tools can be activated. Functions and tools on these toolbars are described in the following three chapters.

If the GeoMap window is empty, then open an existing Geoset as described in the chapter: Setting up the Integration with a

Datasource.

If the Geoset contains GeoEnviron linked map layers, then opening the Geoset will automatically open MapInfo tables for these layers. It may show as below:


GeoEnviron 4.2 The Navigator Toolbar

The Navigator Toolbar

The Navigator toolbar contains functions and tools that are used to set up the GeoMap module and to navigate within the GeoMap window.

Zoom In. Use this tool to zoom in and enlarge a part of the map. You can also zoom in in small intervals using the PageDown key or in larger intervals by rolling the mouse wheel upwards.

Zoom Out. Use this tool to zoom out and overlook a part of the map from a greater distance. You can also zoom out in small intervals using the PageUp key or in larger intervals by rolling the mouse wheel downwards.

Pan. Use the Pan tool to move the map within the GeoMap window frame. You can also move the map in small intervals upwards/downwards or left/right using one of the arrow keys.

Open Geoset. Use this function to select an existing Geoset to be opened in GeoMap.

New Geoset. Use this function to create a new Geoset. Save As... Use this function to save the active Geoset. Layer Control. Opens up the dialog Layer Control that allows you to specify which layers sholud be displayed in a Geoset, the display order of the layers, and the properties of symbols and labels used when displaying map objects. In this dialog you can also choose which layers should be selectable or editable. Full Extent. Use this tool to zoom to full extent of a single map layer or all map layers. Using this tool automatically brings back the Navigator, Read, and Write toolbars to their original position in case the toolbars have been moved.


GeoEnviron 4.2 The Read Toolbar

The Read Toolbar

The Read toolbar contains tools that are used to read information about records in the GeoEnviron database that have been mapped.

Select. This tool has more functions: - Clicking on a GeoEnviron linked feature in GeoMap using this tool will cause it to be selected. GeoEnviron data for this feature are displayed in the status bar beneath the GeoMap window and as a label on the map. - Clicking+Ctrl on individual GeoEnviron linked features in GeoMap using this tool will cause them to be selected. GeoEnviron data on these features are then displayed in a datalist in GeoMap. - Double-clicking on a GeoEnviron linked feature in GeoMap using this tool will bring a GeoEnviron module to the front whilst at the same time displaying data on the selected feature.

Marquee Select. This tool is used to select GeoEnviron linked features in GeoMap by drawing a marquee on the map. GeoEnviron data on the features that fall within the marquee are then displayed in a datalist in GeoMap.

Radius Select. This tool is used to select GeoEnviron linked features in GeoMap by drawing a circle on the map. GeoEnviron data on the features that fall within the circle are then displayed in a datalist in GeoMap.

Polygon Select. This tool is used to select GeoEnviron linked features in GeoMap by drawing a polygon on the map. GeoEnviron data on the features that fall within the polygon are then displayed in a datalist in GeoMap.

Show/Hide Datalist. Use this button to show or hide a list of GeoEnviron data on features that have been selected in GeoMap. From this datalist a GeoEnviron module can be brought to the front whilst at the same time displaying data on either a single feature or all selected features of a type.

Thematic Mapping. Opens up the dialog Individual Value Theme Options that allows you to specify a thematic mapping for a GeoEnviron linked map layer by drawing features to display type categories using different colour or symbol for each type.

Find Feature. This tool is used to select GeoEnviron linked features in a map layer by searching for a specific textstring in certain data fields. GeoEnviron data on these features are then displayed in a datalist in GeoMap.


GeoEnviron 4.2 The Write Toolbar

The Write Toolbar

The Write toolbar contains functions and tools that are used to link features on the map to records in the GeoEnviron database.

Insert Point. This tool is used to add a new point feature on a GeoEnviron linked map layer and linking it to a database record.

Draw Polygon. This tool is used to draw a new polygon feature on a GeoEnviron linked map layer and linking it to a database record.

Draw Line. This tool is used to draw a new polyline feature on a GeoEnviron linked map layer and linking it to a database record.

New Layer. Use this function to create a new GeoEnviron linked map layer in the active Geoset; i.e. to create a MapInfo table for points, polygons, or polylines that are linked to database records. Refresh Layer. Use this function to refresh a GeoEnviron linked map layer based on the contents of the database.

Copy Feature. This tool is used for copying a non GeoEnviron linked feature (point/polygon/polyline) from a MapInfo table to a GeoEnviron linked map layer and linking it to a database record.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Editing Integrated Map Layers

Editing Integrated Map Layers

In this chapter we will explain how integrated map layers, containing GeoEnviron linked features, can be edited in GeoMap.

An integrated map layer can be edited in several ways. New GeoEnviron linked map features may be added. Points, lines, and polygons without a GeoEnviron link can be copied from a MapInfo table and linked to a database record. A feature can be moved on the map layer or deleted.

A GeoEnviron linked map layer needs to be editable in Layer Control to be edited.

Drawing a New Feature and Linking it to GeoEnviron

These three tools on the Write toolbar are used to add a new feature on the map and identify it as a GeoEnviron

object (i.e. to add a GeoEnviron identification to the map feature). The tools draw features having the geometry type points, polylines, or polygons, respectively.

When activating one of the three tools you must choose from list in a dialog which map layer the drawn feature should be added to.

Please Note! When a new GeoEnviron linked feature has just been added, more objects can be added to the same map layer without having to select the layer in the dialog Choose map layer.

Then the new feature can be drawn on the map using the mouse. Polygon and polyline features are finished by double-clicking the mouse.

When a new feature has been drawn on the map, a dialog opens:

Click the Find button to retrieve all non identified records of the same object type in the GeoEnviron database.

The list may be searched for a specific textstring (using the % character as wildcard). Type a search criteria into one or more of the fields Id, Name,



and Type, then click the Find button. Any records which match the search criteria(s) will be listed.

Please Note! A GeoEnviron record´s identification can be copied (using Ctrl+C) from the Id field in the Registration Casement of a GeoEnviron module and inserted (using Ctrl+V) into the Id search field in the dialog 'Create ... in the map layer ...'. When clicking the Find button, this GeoEnviron record appears in the dialog list box.

The column title headers within the list box are designed as buttons. Clicking the mouse on a column header selects the underlying column as the sort column and the data is sorted initially in ascending order. Double clicking with the mouse on a column header selects the column as the sort column and the data is sorted in descending order.

Selecting one record in the list box and clicking OK (or double clicking on the record) causes it to be linked to the feature just drawn.

Please Note! A record in the GeoEnviron database can be mapped either as a point, polygon, or polyline on a GeoEnviron mapsheet.

Linking an Existing Feature to GeoEnviron

A non GeoEnviron linked feature in a MapInfo map layer can be copied to an integrated map layer and linked to a record in the GeoEnviron database using the Copy Feature tool.

The two map layers should use the same MapInfo projection and occur as selectable map layers in the active Geoset. The GeoEnviron linked map layer should also to be editable in Layer Control.

Firstly, activate the Select tool in the Read toolbar - then click on the feature to be copied.

Secondly, activate the Copy Feature function on the Write toolbar.

Now in a dialog window you can choose the GeoEnviron map layer that the feature should be copied to. Then another dialog window opens up:



Click the Find button to retrieve all non identified records of the same object type in the GeoEnviron database.

The list may be searched for a specific textstring (using the % character as wildcard). Type a search criteria into one or more of the fields Id, Name, and Type, then click the Find button. Any records which match the search criteria(s) will be listed.

Please Note! A GeoEnviron record´s identification can be copied (using Ctrl+C) from the Id field in the Registration Casement of a GeoEnviron module and inserted (using Ctrl+V) into the Id search field in the dialog 'Create ... in the map layer ...'. When clicking the Find button, this GeoEnviron record appears in the dialog list box.

The column title headers within the list box are designed as buttons. Clicking the mouse on a column header selects the underlying column as the sort column and the data is sorted initially in ascending order. Double clicking with the mouse on a column header selects the column as the sort column and the data is sorted in descending order.

Selecting one record in the list box and clicking OK (or double clicking on the record) causes it to be linked to the feature just inserted.

Please Note! A record in the GeoEnviron database can be mapped either as a point, polygon, or polyline on a GeoEnviron mapsheet.



Moving a GeoEnviron Linked Feature

A GeoEnviron linked feature on an editable map layer can be moved using the mouse. Use Layer Control to make a map layer editable.

Activate the Select tool on the Read toolbar, click on the feature, and move the feature on the map with the left mouse key down.

When releasing the mouse key the object is placed on the map. The object´s map coordinates are automatically updated in the GeoEnviron database.

Deleting a GeoEnviron Linked Feature

A GeoEnviron linked feature on an editable map layer can be deleted. Use Layer Control to make a map layer editable.

Activate the Select tool on the Read toolbar, click on the feature, and press the Delete key.

In the dialog Delete objects you must then confirm that the feature should be deleted. Map coordinates are not deleted in the database until you answer Yes.

Please Note! When more GeoEnviron linked features are selected, they can all be deleted by pressing the Delete key. Only selected features on editable map layers can be deleted. Tools for selecting GeoEnviron linked features are placed on the Read toolbar.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Communicating with GeoEnviron

Communicating with GeoEnviron

When opening the GeoMap module in GeoEnviron the GeoMap window is attached to GeoEnviron window group 1.

Transferring from GeoEnviron to GeoMap

The link between GeoEnviron and GeoMap is bi-directional. For example, when an object is searched for and retrieved in the GeoEnviron database, the corresponding linked feature object is automatically selected and the map is centered around the feature in GeoMap – provided it has been mapped.

Multiple features within GeoMap can also be selected from within GeoEnviron. For example, a search within the GeoEnviron database using criteria that results in the retrieval of multiple GeoEnviron records causes the records to be displayed in the overview window. The list of search results can be parsed over to and selected in GeoMap by clicking the gis button on the right hand side of the GeoEnviron Overview Window.

Objects in this list will be selected in the GeoMap window, provided they have been mapped in a GeoEnviron linked layer. The map automatically centers around the first object in the GeoMap datalist. The number of selected objects is shown in brackets in the GeoMap datalist next to the tab headers for each object type:

Please Note! An unlimited number of objects can be sent from GeoEnviron to GeoMap in one process using the gis button. However, when many mapped objects are selected it may take a while before the process is completed.



Transferring from GeoMap to GeoEnviron

GeoMap can parse/send information on selected features to the GeoEnviron database using a number of different tools. When the information is sent over to the database, the database retrieves and displays the relevant records in a GeoEnviron window and makes this the active window.

Please note, the map layer must be made selectable in the Layer Control dialog for features to be selected on this layer.

Retrieving a Single Object in GeoEnviron

Activating the Select tool and then double-clicking on a single GeoEnviron linked feature in GeoMap causes that feature´s object

to be retrieved in the relevant GeoEnviron module.

Selecting GeoEnviron Linked Features in GeoMap

More GeoEnviron linked features can be selected in GeoMap using one of the following search tools on the Read toolbar:

• Select • Marquee Select • Radius Select • Polygon Select • Find Feature

Select Tool

Activating the Select tool and then clicking on a single GeoEnviron linked feature in GeoMap causes that feature to be selected whilst

displaying GeoEnviron data for the feature in the status bar beneath the GeoMap window and as a label on the map.

A GeoEnviron linked feature can then be added to the selection by holding down the Ctrl key and clicking on the feature using the Select tool. Clicking on a selected feature while holding down the Shift key removes that feature from the selection.

'Marquee Select', 'Radius Select', and 'Polygon Select' Tools

GeoEnviron linked features can be selected in GeoMap by drawing a search area around them using either of these

three tools. When the drawing of the marquee, circle, or polygon is completed, features are selected if their centroid fall within the search area. The map is zoomed in on the search area.

Centroids of polygons and polylines can be displayed by clicking on the Display button in Layer Control and checking the field Show Centroids in the Display Properties dialog.



Please Note! When activating the Radius Select tool and double-clicking on the map to mark the center of a search circle, a dialog window opens in which an exact radius value for the search circle can be entered.

Find Feature Tool

GeoEnviron linked features on a single map layer can be selected using this tool to search certain data fields for a specific textstring

(using the % character as wildcard). First you select a layer from the drop down listbox. Then enter search criterias into one or more fields and click the Find button. Any records which match the search criteria(s) will be listed.

To locate an address in the CLPG module, click on the Layers button in the Search Objects dialog. This dialog now displays the CLPG data fields. When you have entered a search criteria into one or more fields and click on the Find button, you need to choose the MapInfo projection of the CLPG objects. A GeoEnviron linked map layer with CLPG objects needs not to be in the Geoset in order to search for a specific CLPG object.

The GeoMap Datalist

When more GeoEnviron linked features are selected on the map they are also displayed in the datalist in GeoMap:

The map is centered around the first select object in the datalist. Please note, that when many map features are selected it may take a while before the datalist is displayed.

The number of selected GeoEnviron linked features of a type (Sites, Borings, Surveys, Samples, or CLPG) are shown in brackets in the datalist next to the tab headers for each object type.

The column title headers within the datalist are designed as buttons. Clicking the mouse on a column header selects the underlying column as the sort column and the data is sorted initially in ascending order. Double clicking with the mouse on a column header selects the column as the sort column and the data is sorted in descending order.

The current map and the contents of the datalist for an object type (e.g. Sites) can be printed by clicking on this icon to the right of the



column title headers in the datalist. Default print settings can not be altered.

Retrieving Objects in GeoEnviron from a Selection

From the datalist in GeoMap it is possible to search the GeoEnviron database and retrieve a single object or multiple objects.

Activating the D button to the right of a record in the datalist (or double-clicking a record) will cause this record to be retrieved in a relevant GeoEnviron module.

Activating the D button to the right of the column title headers in the datalist will cause all selected records of this type (e.g. Sites) to be retrieved and displayed as a list in the Overview Window of the relevant GeoEnviron module.

On returning to GeoMap, you will notice that the retrieved objects remain selected in the map.

The GeoMap datalist can be hidden (and shown again) using the button Show/Hide Datalist on the Read toolbar.

The current selection is cleared by clicking on a part of the map that contains no selectable features.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Thematic Mapping

Thematic Mapping

Thematic mapping can be used in GeoMap to display data from GeoEnviron on an integrated map layer in a way that shows you not only where features are positioned but also what category they belong to. This chapter describes how to draw features to show categories.

The Basics

The attribute table of an integrated layer with Sites contains the type of each site. Thus it is possible to make a distinction based on type in GeoMap, displaying different site types with a different symbol and color. The following instruction tells you how to do this in GeoMap (- a similar thematic mapping of type can be done with Surveys, Boreholes, and Samples).

Drawing Features to Show Site Type Categories

• Select the Thematic Mapping tool on the Read toolbar. In the dialog window that appears choose the table containing the site features that should be drawn to show site type categories.

• The dialog window Individual Value Theme Options appears as shown

below. This dialog shows different colors for different site types as each site type is selected from the drop down list in the Individual Value field.

• You can change the color

for the site types without changing their symbol by clicking the Color button and changing the symbol color for each type in the new window that appears when clicking on the button with the default map layer symbol (a star).

• If you want to change both the symbol and color for the site types, then click the All Attribute button and change these attributes for each type in the new window that opens up when clicking on the button with the default map layer symbol (a star).

• Finally, click the OK button to close this dialog window.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Thematic Mapping

• Now another dialog window appears in which you can adjust a legend that shows the different site types of this map layer. A thematic mapping legend may look similar to this:

When features are drawn to show site type categories your map may look similar to this in GeoMap.

A thematic mapping and its legend can be removed from the map by activating the Thematic Mapping button on the Read toolbar. In

the dialog window that appears choose the table containing the sites that no longer should be drawn to show site type categories.

Please Note! A thematic mapping is not saved with the Geoset.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Installation of the GeoMap Module

Installation of the GeoMap Module

The GeoEnviron database may be of the type Sybase Adaptive Server Anywhere or Microsoft SQL Server. The GeoEnviron database is specified via an ODBC datasource.

The GeoEnviron module GeoMap may be used with MapInfo MapX 5.0 and later versions.

The installation procedure contains the following 2 steps:

• Installing the MapInfo MapX program

• Adapting the GeoEnviron initialisation file

Installing the MapInfo MapX Program

MapInfo MapX should be installed locally for each user of the GeoMap module.

• Close all open programs.

• To install MapInfo MapX insert the installation CD and run the file setup.exe, that is located under MapX_50 in the Install folder.

• Reboot the computer when the installation is completed.

The default installation folder for the MapInfo MapX program is C:\Program Files\MapInfo\MapX 5.0

About the GeoEnvir.ini File

The GeoEnvir.ini file is read by the GeoEnviron program at startup. It can be in either of two places: Either locally on a client computer in the folder C:\Windows or C:\Winnt - or on the server where GeoEnviron is installed, e.g. in the folder N:\Geokon\Ini_file.

At startup, GeoEnviron first looks for the .ini file on the particular client computer; if it is there, it is used. If there is no .ini file there, the program uses the .ini file from the server.

This means you have a choice: The .ini file on the server is a default for all users, which is maintained centrally. However, should there be a need for a different setup on a client computer, you store an .ini file there which then takes precedence over the server .ini file.

No matter where the .ini file is stored, it must include all the information which we describe in the following.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Installation of the GeoMap Module

Adapting the GeoEnvir.ini File

The following lines must always be present in the GeoEnvir.ini file:

[MapX] path="C:\Program Files\MapInfo\MapX 5.0\" pathtab="C:\geokon\mapx\geoenvir\"

Path to the MapInfo MapX program. Definition of working directory.

You need not specify a working directory. If the line pathtab="..." is not inserted, it will be added by the program later on when you create the first map layer for GeoEnviron linked features.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Setting up the Integration with a Datasource

Setting up the Integration with a Datasource

In this chapter we will set up the integration with a GeoEnviron database having a single user ore more users.

Starting the Module

Start by selecting the menu item File|GeoMap.

The GeoMap Module will now appear on your screen as a window named GeoMap that contains three floating toolbars (Navigator, Read, and Write) on which functions and tools can be activated.

Functions and tools on these toolbars are described in earlier chapters of this manual.

Getting Started

The preparations described in the following must be done before the GeoMap module can be used. These startup activities consist of the following steps:

• Creating a Geoset with background map layers • Opening the Geoset in GeoMap • Creating and opening integrated map layers • Choosing symbol style for integrated map layers • Refreshing integrated map layers • Distributing the Geoset to other users



Creating a Geoset with Background Map Layers

When opening the GeoMap module for the first time, you should create a Geoset that contains a background map layer. More GeoMap users can display the same background map layer from a server drive, but the Geoset file must always be placed locally for each GeoMap user.

A Geoset is created by activating the New Geoset button on the Navigator toolbar.

The 'Geoset Manager' Program

The Geoset Manager program opens with the Open dialog:

Cancel the Open dialog if no Geoset has been created.



Adding a Background Map Layer

Choose the Map|Layer Control menu in the Geoset Manager program to open the Layer Control dialog.

A background map layer is added using the Add button. The background map layer should be an existing MapInfo table.

Locate the folder that holds the table, select the table from the list box and click OK.

Choosing Unit for Coordinate System

Choose what unit is displayed for the geographical coordinate system (projection) of the background map layer under the View|Options menu:

The unit of the background map layer is selected from the drop down list box in the Distance Unit field.

Saving the Geoset

Save the Geoset using the File|Save As menu in the Geoset Manager program. Type the name of the Geoset and choose which folder the Geoset should be saved to in the dialog window.

Confirm the Geoset name in the dialog Set Geoset Name. Close the Geoset Manager program when the Geoset has been saved.



Opening a Geoset in GeoMap

In the GeoMap window you activate the button Open Geoset on the Navigator toolbar, choose the Geoset you have just created and

click Open.

Now the background map layer is displayed in the GeoMap window:

When opening a Geoset in the GeoMap module the path to the Geoset file is automatically added to the GeoEnviron initialisation file GeoEnvir.ini:

[MapX] path="C:\Program Files\MapInfo\MapX 5.0\" pathtab="C:\geokon\mapx\geoenvir\" GeoSet="C:\geokon\mapx\geoenvir\UK_BNG.gst"

Once a Geoset has been opened in GeoMap, this Geoset is automatically opened the next time the GeoMap module is opened.

Now the first GeoEnviron linked map layer can be created in GeoMap and added to the active Geoset.



Creating and Opening Integrated Map Layers

MapInfo tables for GeoEnviron linked map layers in the active Geoset are created using the New Layer button on the Write

toolbar. Specifying Table Definitions for an Integrated Map Layer

In two dialog windows you should define the following:

1. MapInfo projection 2. Type of GeoEnviron objects the layer contains 3. Name of the layer 4. GeoEnviron coordinate system (mapsheet) 5. Type of feature the layer contains Choose a projection (geographical coordinate system) that the layer should be displayed with in GeoMap from the drop down list boxes in the first dialog window:



The Dialog 'Create New Layer'

Choose the type of GeoEnviron objects that the map layer holds from the drop down list in the Layer Type field:

Each of the object types Sites and Surveys can be registered as points, polylines, or polygons. The object types Boreholes, Samples, and CLPG can be registered as points only. All in all it is possible to create 9 GeoEnviron linked map layers.

The object type Sites contains different types of sites such as contaminated land, industrial sites, storage tanks etc.

The object type Surveys contains both surveys and remediation projects.

The object type CLPG contains address locations.

Please Note! The object type Non-Geoenviron contains features which are not linked to records in the GeoEnviron database.

Enter the name of the map layer into the Layer Name field:

Click the Mapsheet button to open a list box where you can choose a coordinate system or mapsheet from the GeoEnviron database.

A GeoEnviron coordinate system is a code in the database that identifies which geographical coordinate system (map projection) is used by GeoEnviron linked map layers in GeoMap.



Please Note! If the drop down list does not contain the coordinate system you want to use, it must first be added in GeoEnviron.

This is done in the menu Base Tables|Common Base Tables|Main| GIS/GeoView on the Mapsheets tab.

To create a new mapsheet in the database, click the Insert button and complete the Mapsheet Id and Name fields. In the Type of Map field select Coordinate system from the drop down list menu. In the field 'Coordinates, type of' select Meter from the drop down list.

Click the Update button to save these data.

The next time the function New Layer is activated in GeoMap, the mapsheet can be selected from the list when pressing the Mapsheet button.

Finally choose which type of map objects (points/lines/polygons) the layer holds:

Saving Table Files for the Integrated Map Layer

Click OK to save the MapInfo table files to a folder.

Please Note! We recommend to save all MapInfo tables for integrated map layers belonging to the same GeoEnviron datasource to a single folder.

When a GeoEnviron linked map layer has just been created the MapInfo table is automatically added to the active Geoset in GeoMap.



Choosing Symbol Style for Integrated Map Layers

The default symbol style of a map layer can be changed in the Layer Control dialog that is activated on the Navigator toolbar.

Select the map layer from the list and click the Display... button.

Check the Override Style checkbox in the Display Properties dialog:

Clicking the button with the map layer symbol opens a new dialog.



In the Symbol Style dialog change the default symbol, and choose size and color by clicking the arrow to the right of these fields.

Click OK to close this dialog window when a symbol style is selected for the map layer.

A map layer can be displayed within a certain zoom range by checking the checkbox labeled Display within Zoom Range and specifying minimum/maximum values for the width of the GeoMap window in the Display Properties dialog:



Choosing Label Properties for Integrated Map Layers

How labels for GeoEnviron linked map layers are displayed can be specified in Layer Control.

Select a map layer from the list and click the Labels... button.

In the Label Properties dialog choose a field to label and the settings that labels should use when displayed on the map.

Labels are displayed on the map if the Automatic Labels checkbox is checked in the Layer Control dialog. Otherwise labels are only displayed when selecting a feature on the map using the Select tool on the Read toolbar.

When closing the Layer Control dialog the Geoset is automatically saved. The next time this Geoset is opened in GeoMap the map layers are displayed using these settings.

Please Note! The selected field to label is not saved to the Geoset.

Refreshing Integrated Map Layers

Use the Refresh Layer function on the Write toolbar to transfer any map coordinates from the database to a GeoEnviron linked map

layer in the active Geoset.

A GeoEnviron linked map layer must be editable in Layer Control to be refreshed.

When more GeoEnviron linked map layers are open and editable you should choose in a dialog which layer should be refreshed. Then information on mapped features in the GeoEnviron database is transfered to the MapInfo table.

Please Note! This proces may take a few minutes depending on how many GeoEnviron objects with map coordinates the database holds.

The number of mapped objects in the GeoEnviron database and the current status of the process is displayed in the status bar beneath the GeoMap window.



When the process is completed an information box appears on the screen informing you about how many objects have been inserted or refreshed in GeoMap. Clicking OK causes the map to be redrawn and the Geoset and MapInfo tables to be saved.

Please Note! No GeoEnviron objects will be displayed in the data frame unless the database contains records with coordinates registered against the relevant map sheet/coordinate system.

Distributing a Geoset File to Other Users

If more users are to use the GeoMap module with the same GeoEnviron database, the Geoset must first be distributed to each user of GeoMap.

The Geoset file should be copied and placed locally on each client machine. When using the same path to the Geoset file for every client machine, the GeoEnviron initialisation file GeoEnvir.ini need not to be adapted.

Now each user can open the Geoset in the GeoMap module and work with the GeoEnviron linked map layers that the Geoset contains.


GeoEnviron 4.2 Setting up the Integration with Another Datasource

Setting up the Integration with Another Datasource

GeoMap can be set up with another version of the GeoEnviron database.

When the GeoMap module is opened in GeoEnviron by selecting the menu item File|GeoMap, the GeoMap window contains the Geoset that was used in the previous session. If you want to work with data from another GeoEnviron database you must first create a new Geoset with new GeoEnviron linked map layers and open this Geoset in GeoMap.

Start up activities are described in the previous chapter: Setting up the Integration with a Datasource.


Documents

The GeoMap Module - STM Environmental · The GeoMap Module will now appear on your screen as a window named GeoMap that contains three floating toolbars (Navigator, Read, and Write)