| In this dissertation, we have formulated a 2-D approach for determining the datum information parameters. The new method allows the translational parameters to be determined exactly, while the misalignment angle absorbs the distortions present in the coordinates. The amount of the distortions absorbed by the misalignment angle will depend on their magnitude. In addition, results obtained from investigating the effect of network configuration, point density, and network extent on the transformation parameters and their accuracies, showed that these factors affect only the misalignment angle and its accuracy.;We saw from this study that the perfect recovery of translational parameters is only possible when we use a four parameter model, in which three translations and one misalignment angle about the normal through the origin of the terrestrial network are involved. Since the positioning and orientation of a geodetic coordinate system was done via the origin of the terrestrial network, it is legitimate to use a four parameter model for determining the datum transformation parameters. A six parameter model could not allow perfect recovery of the translational perameters.;The data used in this study was simulated. Simulation was used for two reasons: (a) simulation gives appropriate data for investigating a particular problem; and (b) since we know what we have in our data, then we also know what we should expect to get from our computations. As a result, reasonable conclusions can be deduced when simulated data is used. The terrestrial and satellite "determined positions" were simulated. The random and systematic errors were simulated as well, and added to the coordinates so as to reflect the actual reality of terrestrial and satellite positions. Statistical tests were also performed on error estimates to assess that our software properly recovers the errors in the coordinates. |
