topic Feature location problem in KMZ files in ArcGIS Explorer Desktop Questions

Feature location problem in KMZ files

NicholasGross — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 11:58:14 GMT

When converting data from ArcMap to a KMZ for use in AGX, I'm noticing that all the features are shifted from their true location by several feet. Also, when I add point graphics or run the Buffer Feature analysis tool that is included with AGX 1200, they also shift off the point where I actually clicked.

Has anyone else experienced this? Maybe I have a problem in my coordinate system settings?

Re: Feature location problem in KMZ files

MichaelBranscomb — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 06:52:28 GMT

Nicholas,

The ArcMap > KML/KMZ shift sounds like it could be a projection issue between the coordinate system you are using in ArcMap, perhaps any transformation you have set for the data frame and the client application (presumed to be ArcGIS Explorer based on the forum), it's coordinate system and again any transformations that are active.

However, the Buffer tool click point shift sounds odd - it should capture the point exactly where you click. My guess here would be some issue between capturing the screen click point and converting it to real world coordinates. Perhaps a screen/dpi issue?

Regards

Mike

Re: Feature location problem in KMZ files

NicholasGross — Thu, 12 Aug 2010 11:10:12 GMT

Attached are some screenshots showing the "shifts" I'm seeing. "Buffer_Shift_1.PNG" and "Buffer_Shift_2.PNG" show the before and after of the buffer tool. I placed the buffer point directly on top of the blue symbol, but it displayed several feet off. And then, after clicking "Run" on the Buffer Point window, the pin symbol jumped way over to the west.

"KMZ_Shift.PNG" shows the difference between the same layer when it is displayed as a layer package vs. a KML. The blue point on the left is KML and the one on the right is LPK. The yellow line is a measurement I took, which you can also see didn't display where I actually clicked.

"Transformation.PNG" is just a screenshot of the 3D coordinate system settings. I've also noticed that these settings aren't being saved across Explorer sessions, I have to keep resetting them.

Here is the coordinate system properties of the data frame containing the layers the the KML/KMZ was created from:
NAD_1983_StatePlane_Indiana_East_FIPS_1301_Feet
Projection: Transverse_Mercator

And the coordinate system in the layer properties (in ArcMap):
Projected Coordinate System: NAD_1983_StatePlane_Indiana_East_FIPS_1301_Feet
Projection: Transverse_Mercator

Here is what is listed in the Map Properties of Explorer:
Coordinate System: GCS_North_American_1983, Transformation: NAD_1983_To_WGS_1984_5

And in the layer properties in Explorer for the layer package (the KML doesn't have a coordinate system listed under it's layer properties):
Coordinate System: NAD_1983_StatePlane_Indiana_East_FIPS_1301_Feet