SMS:Scatter Data Workflow

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

1. Import scatter data.
Use File | Open... to open files with scatter data such as scatter point files, ASCII dataset files, binary dataset files, tabular data files, or XYZ files. Alternatively, drag and drop the file into the Graphics Window in SMS. Use the File Import Wizard to specify how to import the 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.

1. Edit scatter sets. After a scatter TIN has been imported into SMS, it may require editing to be usable. 1. Delete boundary triangles. 2. Resolve triangulation issues. Manually swap edges. Add a breakline to smooth contours 2. Manually modify scatter sets. Scatter sets can be manually modified if needed. Use 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 in the model run. Multiple interpolation options are available, including: Linear Inverse Distance Weighted (IDW) Natural Neighbor (NN) Laplacian Interpolation (Cartesian grids only)

7. Merge scatter sets.

1. Merge scatter datasets
Select the Scatter | Merge Sets command. Use the Merge Scatter Sets dialog to select elevation data to be merged.

2. Merge coverages.
Select multiple coverages that have feature objects which need to be on the same coverage. Use the Merge Coverages right-click command. Right-click on the new coverage and set the correct coverage type. Use the Clean Options dialog to resolve conflicting feature object data in the new coverage.