In this article, we will explain how to set up predefined or custom coordinate systems in InfraField.
Coordinate systems are essential in civil projects because they ensure that design, survey, construction, and GIS data remain accurately aligned throughout the entire lifecycle.
When coordinate references are inconsistent, errors compound across phases, leading to misaligned models, shifted surfaces, incorrect elevations, and costly construction mistakes.
A shared coordinate framework ensures accurate positioning in the field, reliable model overlays between CAD/BIM and GIS, and smooth integration of survey data, drone scans, LiDAR, and design models.
User rights
To set up the coordinate system, you must have the Project Administrator role or be part of a custom user group with permission to view and edit areas, buildings, and locations.
How to set the coordinate system
The coordinate system locates the project in the real world and aligns all areas and structures to the map view. Once you set the coordinate system, it applies to all areas and structures in the project, and you do not need to place them manually on the map.
WARNING
Make sure to select the correct coordinate system from the start to avoid affecting your areas and structures later.
To place the project in the correct coordinate system, go to
Settings
Locations
Map
In Coordinate system click on 'Not set'.
You can search for the correct coordinate system by code, name, or area. Once you have found the correct system select it from the list and click 'OK'.
If you do not need to customize anything your coordinate system is now applied to the project and ready to be used.
Advanced options
Under the 'Advanced' menu, you can either edit the current coordinate system setup or add your own custom coordinate system.
In Edit system setup, you can adjust the current chosen system projection to match your project. This is done by adjusting X and Y offset, scale, and rotation.
Apply changes as needed and click 'OK' to save.
Click 'Reset' to return to the default projection values.
Add a custom coordinate system
If you cannot find the coordinate system you are using, or if you want to add your own custom coordinate system, you can add it to the list.
This is done from the 'Advanced' menu, and clicking Add coordinate system.
Enter the required information: Code, Name, and Area, they are shown in the list view.
The 'PROJ string' field should contain the values for your custom coordinate system.
Please note that the 'Code' cannot be edited later, so make sure to enter the correct value. If you need to change the code, you will need to delete the coordinate system and start over.
Once added, the coordinate system can be selected just like any of the default options.
Edit a custom coordinate system
When a custom coordinate system is selected Edit system setup, allows you edit the name, area, and PROJ string.
To delete a custom coordinate system, click 'Delete' in the lower-left corner. You will be prompted to confirm the action before it is deleted.
Deleted systems cannot be restored, but you can create a new one with the same information if needed.
Deletion takes effect immediately for all users, so ensure you plan accordingly if the project is live.
Read more
If you want to learn more about setting up GIS data, read this article: How to set up GIS and LandXML.