Empirical comparison of the Geodetic Coordinate Transformation Models: a case study of Croatia

Abstract

This paper presents empirical research on coordinate transformation models that enable coordinate transformations between the historical astro-geodetic datums and datums related to the European Terrestrial Reference System (ETRS), through a case study of the Republic of Croatia. Thirteen models were investigated for the transformation from the historical Croatian State Coordinate System (HDKS) to the Croatian Terrestrial Reference System (HTRS96): Molodensky 3 and 5 parameter (standard and abridged) conformal transformation models, 7 parameter transformation models (Bursa-Wolf and Molodensky-Badekas model), Affine transformation models (8, 9, 12 parameter), Multiple Regression Equation approach, and several transformation models that include extending of the aforementioned 7 parameter and 8, 9, 12 parameter Affine transformation models with distortion modelling. Most of the models were investigated for the first time over the Croatian territory. Analysis of transformation models performance was conducted using an independent data set of reliable geodetic points. The study provides mutual comparison of the models and their comparison with the official Croatian transformation model called T7D. Furthermore, the most appropriate transformation model(s) were defined regarding the required accuracy and the available resources for the coordinate transformation models implementation. In addition, the paper provides a brief theoretical background and equations of each transformation model and summarises the bibliography on the research topic.