Combination of three dimensional geodetic networks using similarity transformations

Bibliography: pages 173-178.Classical terrestrial (horizontal and vertical) networks and Doppler satellite derived networks are combined in a three dimensional transformation adjustment by solving for the external bias parameters using any of the three standard seven parameter similarity transformation models, namely the Bursa, Molodensky and Veis models. The object of this combination may be merely to merge the systems or networks, but may additionally involve an attempt to assign physical meaning to the estimated bias parameters. These two aspects, and the influence of the a priori Variance-Covariance matrix of the observables on the parameters and their interpretation is studied in detail. An in-depth conceptual, mathematical and numerical comparative assessment of the three standard models is made. The homogeneity of the classical terrestrial South African networks is investigated by comparing the transformation parameter sets derived for different regions and sub-regions of the country