BSEN 5220

BSEN 5220. Introduction to Spatial Technologies for Biosystems Engineering. (3) Lec. 2hrs/wk, Lab. 3 hrs/wk.  Introduction to geospatial technologies including global positioning system (GPS), geographical information system (GIS), and remote sensing systems as applied to Biosystems.  Methodologies to collect, manage, and analyze spatial data for biosystems. (Spring)

Required for students in the Forest Engineering curriculum pursuing the Forest Resources emphasis.  Elective for students in the Biosystems Engineering curriculum and for the students in the Forest Engineering curriculum pursuing the Forest Products Emphasis.

Textbook: Handouts

Course Objectives:  Provide students with a basic understanding of how to collect and analyze geospatial data utilizing GPS and GIS.  The course also introduces students to the integration of Biosystems models with GIS to perform spatial analysis.

Topics Covered:
GPS applications
Positioning and Navigation
GPS Errors
Mission Planning
GPS Receiver Types
Differential GPS
Carrier Phase GPS
Coordinate Systems and Datums
Exporting GPS to GIS
Computers and GIS
Internet Spatial Data Sources
Introduction to ArcView
Creating Themes
Manipulation of Data Tables
Linking Documents
Introduction to Spatial Analyst
Introduction to 3-D Analyst
Introduction to Network Analyst

Course contributes to the professional component by serving as one of the engineering science courses.

Course contributes to the following program outcomes:  a) apply knowledge of mathematics, science, and engineering, d) function on multi-disciplinary teams, e) identify, formulate and solve engineering problems, g) communicate effectively, h) broad education in understanding engineering in global and societal context, j) gain knowledge of contemporary issues, and k) use the techniques, skills, and modern engineering tools necessary for engineering practice