Collecting Data with TerraFlow Sensor Mapper

Learn how to collect environmental sensor data using GPS or specialized sensors like Ludlum radiation detectors and Geonics electromagnetic systems.

Before you start:

  • Ensure your GPS/GNSS unit is connected and receiving signal
  • If using a sensor, verify it's paired with TerraFlow Sensor Mapper
  • Select the appropriate workflow for your collection task
  • Confirm you have the correct asset types and sensor parameters configured
  • Understand your survey objectives (single point readings vs. continuous streams)

Step 1: Choose Your Collection Method

TerraFlow Sensor Mapper supports two data collection methods depending on your equipment and survey requirements.

Manual Collection uses GPS/GNSS positioning only and is ideal for marking locations of interest, infrastructure points, or areas where sensor readings aren't required.

Sensor Collection combines GPS with environmental sensors (Ludlum radiation detectors, Geonics electromagnetic systems) for capturing radiation levels, electromagnetic readings, or other environmental data streams.

Choose the method that matches your equipment and the type of survey data you're collecting.

Step 2: Start Manual Collection

Use this method when marking locations without sensor measurements.

  1. Tap the Plus button to start a new collection
  2. Select the workflow you want to use
  3. Select the type of asset or item you want to capture
  4. Complete the attribute form if one appears (optional but recommended for better data quality)
  5. The Save buttons will enable once the form is ready

Your device will use GPS positioning automatically. Stand at the location you want to mark for accurate coordinates.

Step 3: Start Sensor Collection

Use this method when collecting environmental sensor data with radiation detectors or electromagnetic sensors.

  1. Tap the Plus button to start a new collection
  2. Select the workflow you want to use
  3. Tap Sensor on the top tab to enable sensor mode
  4. Select the type of asset or item you want to capture
  5. Complete the attribute form if one appears (optional)
  6. The Save buttons will enable once the form is ready

In sensor mode, TerraFlow will automatically capture readings when your sensor detects data. Position yourself at the measurement location before your sensor takes readings.

Step 4: Choose the Right Save Option

TerraFlow offers three save options designed for different collection scenarios. Select the one that matches your survey type.

Save and New

Best for: Single point measurements or discrete location readings

This option saves a single point with the associated sensor data and immediately resets the form for the next measurement.

  • Saves one point with sensor reading
  • Clears the form
  • Stays in collection mode
  • Ready to collect the next individual reading

Use this when taking spot measurements at different locations, such as radiation checks at specific points of interest.

Save and More

Best for: Continuous surveys, radiation streams, or electromagnetic mapping along a path

This option saves the current point and continues collecting additional points that will form a data stream showing changes over distance or time.

In Manual Collection mode:

  • Creates points on a timed interval, OR
  • Prompts you to tap Save for each position

In Sensor Collection mode:

  • Automatically captures a new position each time a sensor reading is detected
  • Creates a continuous data stream as you move through the survey area

The system continues collecting points until you tap Finish.

Use this option when walking a survey line, tracing contamination, or mapping electromagnetic fields. The system will automatically log sensor readings as you move.

Save and Finish

Best for: The last measurement in your collection session or completing a single standalone reading

This option saves a single point with the associated sensor data and closes the form completely.

  • Saves one point with sensor reading
  • Closes the collection form
  • Returns you to the map view
  • Ends the current collection session

Use this when you're done surveying and want to return to the map to review your data.

Step 5: Conducting Sensor Surveys

Follow these best practices when collecting continuous sensor data streams.

For Radiation Surveys (Ludlum Detectors)

  1. Start the collection using Save and More
  2. Walk or drive slowly through the survey area at a consistent pace
  3. The system automatically captures readings as the detector measures radiation
  4. Maintain steady movement for continuous coverage
  5. Tap Finish when you've completed the survey path

Walking / driving speed affects data density. Slower movement provides more detailed coverage but takes longer.

For Electromagnetic Surveys (Geonics Systems)

  1. Start the collection using Save and More
  2. Walk or drive the survey line at the recommended pace for your equipment
  3. The system automatically logs electromagnetic readings at specified intervals
  4. Keep the sensor at the proper height and orientation
  5. Tap Finish when you reach the end of your survey line

Follow your sensor manufacturer's guidelines for walking speed, sensor height, and line spacing.

Step 6: Monitoring Real-Time Data

Track your sensor readings and survey progress as you collect data.

  • Watch for sensor values appearing in TerraFlow as you move
  • Monitor GPS accuracy to ensure quality positioning
  • Check that data points are being logged (visible on map)
  • Observe radiation or electromagnetic levels in real-time
  • Note any hot spots or anomalies for further investigation

If you're not seeing sensor readings appear, verify your sensor is connected and in sensor collection mode (not manual mode).

Troubleshooting

Save buttons won't enable?

  • Verify your GPS has an adequate signal (check the accuracy indicator)
  • If using a sensor, ensure it's connected in Sensor Settings
  • Check that all required form fields are completed
  • Wait for GPS to stabilize if you just powered on

Sensor readings not appearing in TerraFlow?

  • Confirm you're on the Sensor tab (not manual collection)
  • Verify the sensor is paired and connected in Bluetooth settings
  • Check the sensor battery level and power status
  • Ensure the sensor is actively taking measurements
  • Try the Bluetooth Console to verify data is being transmitted
  • Restart Bluetooth connection if needed

Automatic point capture not working during surveys?

  • Verify you used Save and More (not Save and New)
  • Confirm you're in sensor collection mode (Sensor tab selected)
  • Check that your sensor is detecting and transmitting readings
  • Ensure the sensor trigger is properly configured
  • Walk slowly enough for the sensor to take measurements

Data points appearing in wrong locations?

  • Wait for GPS accuracy to improve before starting survey
  • Ensure you're moving at an appropriate pace for GPS updates
  • Verify your coordinate system settings match project requirements
  • Check that external GPS (if using one) is properly connected

Gamma radiation thresholds seem incorrect?

  • Tap the Gear icon on the map screen
  • Adjust Low/Medium/High gamma radiation values
  • Configure hot spot display settings as needed
  • Contact your radiation safety officer for appropriate thresholds

Survey line looks irregular or jumpy?

  • GPS accuracy fluctuations cause position variations
  • Walk at steady pace without stopping or rushing
  • Ensure clear view of sky for best GPS performance
  • Use external RTK GPS for higher accuracy surveys if available

Tips for Success

  • Pre-survey planning: Walk your survey path before collecting to identify obstacles
  • Sensor warm-up: Allow sensors time to stabilize before starting collection (per manufacturer specs)
  • Battery management: Continuous sensor collection drains battery quickly—monitor levels
  • Walking speed: Maintain consistent pace for uniform data coverage
  • GPS accuracy: Higher accuracy GPS produces cleaner survey lines
  • Hot spot investigation: When detecting anomalies, switch to Save and New for detailed spot measurements
  • Data density: Slower walking speed = more data points but longer survey time
  • Environmental factors: Wind, temperature, and terrain affect sensor performance
  • Safety first: Follow all radiation safety protocols when using Ludlum detectors
  • Document conditions: Use attribute forms to note weather, equipment settings, and conditions
  • Verify connection: Always test sensor connection before heading to remote survey areas
  • Review in field: Check collected data on map before leaving survey site

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Need more help? Contact TerraFlow Support at support@terraflow.ca