Anonymise DATAFLASH LAT/LONG but keep in binary form

I am looking to anon the LAT/LONG in my dataflash logs for sharing. So far I have been using the functionality in MP. Advanced→Anon.

The issue is that it converts the DATAFLASH bin into human-readable text. Breaking tools that are expecting to parse binary files. Such as ArduPilot Filter Review

Is there tooling to get it back into binary form?

It would make sense for this to be part of the MP feature as it’s converting for the randomization, instead of patching the BIN directly I assume. Maybe a tickbox or just output both?

This would help the community when requesting support.

1 Like

Go to a nearby field, so your home location will not be revealed. This is the only case when I think anonymizing of the log is relevant.
In other cases, requests to conceal nationality or the intended use tend to raise concerns about potential non-compliance with the ArduPilot developers’ code of conduct.

That said, I am open to being shown otherwise.

I would rather not disclose my location at all (even from a nearby field). It’s a relevant and useful feature that doesn’t have to have nefarious implications. I simply value privacy.

Also, what if a crash or other curious, difficult to replicate issue happens at home? We can’t simply demand that a user drive to the local RC field and replicate results…

1 Like

I recall helping a user here who coded his own solution that worked but it didn’t result in a PR.

Yes, agree with Yuri.

I rather prefer to keep my location private as well.

There are people out there living in rural areas and giving away your location and potentially the details of your drone(s) and other related equipment, may potentially paint a nice target on your location for thiefs to visit.

Especially when more expensive equipment is in use.

1 Like

OK, I’m sold.

Use it at your own risk; check anonymized data before sharing. I tested with only a couple of 4.5. and 4.6 logs.

5 Likes

Just a suggestion - you could use PyInstaller to make a normal .exe file that can run without python needed on the pc and could make user usage easier as they wont need to set up python, which could be very timetaking with beginners