Linear referencing

Linear referencing enables you to locate points and spans along linear assets. There can be many linear referencing methods, such as absolute, relative, percent, addressing, time, and stationing.

This topic describes an absolute linear referencing method but the product also supports reference points that are created using features but store absolute measure even when reference points are used. This type of referencing allows workers in the field to use relative linear referencing such as mile posts, while also ensuring accurate maintenance history is recorded against the asset.

Use linear referencing to locate point assets, relationships to locations or other assets (linear and nonlinear), features, attributes, and assigned work.

Linear referencing uses distance measures from known points along X, Y, and Z axes.

• X axis. A distance along the center line of the linear asset. This distance, the measure, is the distance from the beginning of the linear asset. You can also use an X offset to reference the distance from a known reference point along a linear asset, such as the distance from an intersection or a mile post.
• Y axis. A distance to the right or left side of the linear asset. This distance is the Y offset. You measure it from reference values that you define, such as the center line or right pavement edge.
• Z axis. A distance above or below the linear asset. This distance is the Z offset. You measure it from reference values that you define, such as the road surface.

To work with your linear assets, define one or more linear reference methods (LRMs) that fit your business practices. To define an LRM, specify units of measure and reference points for each of the axes. For example, you might define an LRM that uses miles for the measure, X axis, and feet for all the offset measurements.