What does "use_tf_scan_transform" parameter in Hector slam represent?
The parameter "use_tf_scan_transform" can be set as true or false in the mapping_default.launch file and acts as an input parameter to the hector_mapping node. The description about the same is not present in the hector_mapping documentation.
I am not sure if I am right but i think it takes care of the skew that is generated because of the laser being mounted on a moving robot. Also if you can provide information about the "use_tf_pose_start_estimate" parameter that would be very helpful.
I think you are right about "use_tf_scan_transformation, see this answer to a similar question: http://answers.ros.org/question/48778...