SMS:Scatter Data Workflow

Scatter data can be used in SMS with the following steps:

1. Import topographic data.
One method to create a scatter set is to import existing topographic data. Topographic data is often in a text file. Use the File Import Wizard to open the topographic data.

2. Generate scatter data.
Scatter data can also be generated from data in other modules in SMS. Some options are: GIS to scatter. Map to scatter. Mesh to scatter.

3. Edit and modify scatter sets.
After a TIN has been imported into SMS, it may require editing to be usable. Delete boundary triangles. Resolve triangulation issues. Manually swap edges. Add a breakline to smooth contours Scatter sets can be manually modified if needed. Used the stamped feature option. Merge another TIN into the current surface. Create vertices (points). Select and edit vertices (points).

5. Export tabular data.
Scatter TIN data can be exported as tabular data for use in other software. Use the Save As... command and select the "tabular data" file type. Use the Export Tabular File dialog to specify how the tabular data should be formatted.

6. Interpolate scatter sets.
For the topgraphic data in the scatter set to be included in the model run, the scatter set normally needs to be interpolated to the module being used. Multiple interpolation options are available, including: Linear Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) Natural Neighbor (NN) Laplacian Interpolation (Cartesian grids only)