Many different surveying instruments include steel tape, trough compass, and chain. Hopefully, this article will help you determine which one is right for you. The Global Positioning System is a revolutionary piece of surveying equipment, and using it is a safe, quick, and accurate way to measure land. Here are some of the more common surveying instruments and their uses.
In-plane table surveying
Modern surveying began in the late 18th century with the invention of the plumb bob. This tool is based on ground observations and is the earliest instrument for surveying purposes. Eventually, this instrument became a more precise method for measuring distances.
A levelling instrument is a vital surveying tool, as it is used to establish elevations. It has a horizontal plane and a vertical one, and it also has a levelling bubble. These instruments are useful for field drawing, charts, and maps, and those with minimal education can use them.
The number of types of surveying instruments continues to increase. Several of today’s instruments are portable and are often used in construction projects. Modern surveying instruments also feature a high degree of accuracy. One of the most popular instruments in Kenya is the SP80 GNSS receiver. This instrument has many uses in construction work, including site grading, pouring concrete, laying foundations, and installing fences. Indoors, the SP80 GNSS receiver is often used to install drop ceilings.
GPS from Bench Mark is one of the most innovative and popular pieces of modern surveying equipment. Its use enables surveyors to find non-moving points and create accurate maps. The device consists of a cable and antenna to locate GPS satellites, and the receiver then records this data. It makes it possible to measure precise angles for triangulation projects.
Chain surveying
Surveying instruments can be classified into two categories: theodolite and sight reflectors. Both provide a level surface that can be used for field drawings and to create charts and maps. Theodolites have a range of uses, including measuring distance and angles. Modern theodolites have onboard computers and are generally used by surveyors. Surveyors also use sight reflectors, which are instruments that measure three points.
Traditional surveying methods rely on the chain, tape, compass, and ordinary theodolites to measure distance and height. While these instruments were accurate and relatively easy to use, they were also slow and difficult to operate. With technological advancements, surveyors increasingly turn to modern instruments for faster and more accurate measurements. Here are some of these tools and their uses:
The transit tool was developed as an alternative to a compass for measuring angles between lines. It is capable of measuring angles to less than one minute of arc. Unlike a compass, it can also measure distances indoors.
In-plane table surveying with a trough compass
A trough compass is a tool that uses a magnetic needle to point north. It has a device with a needle suspended from its base and has an upward curvature. The instrument measures distances and angles on a flat surface while marking surveying stations.
To do an in-plane table survey, the surveyor will first have to determine the direction of the north pole. The trough compass is a device that allows the surveyor to identify the direction of the north pole, which is marked on the top right corner of the drawing sheet. The trough compass will be held along the north direction and rotated to make the magnetic needle centred over the object.
Plane table surveying is often used for small-scale mapping and industrial areas. It is also used for filling in details between triangulation stations or theodolite traversing. As it is accurate enough for in-plane table surveying, it is often the most efficient and economical option for small-scale surveys. However, it is not recommended for detailed works.
In-plane table surveying with a steel tape
Modern surveying instruments and their uses have greatly improved over the years. Surveyors can now work more efficiently and accurately with these modern tools. Furthermore, the accuracy of the data produced by these instruments will continue to increase with time. With these advancements, the profession of surveying has become easier than ever. Therefore, modern surveying equipment will most likely continue to develop. It is why many surveying companies are increasingly relying on modern tools.
Modern survey instruments are much more accurate than traditional surveying methods. For example, GPS, or Global Positioning Systems, is an essential modern instrument. GPS is a revolutionary tool with satellites, receiver algorithms, and location synchronization. And it is gaining widespread adoption, resulting in better results. The accuracy of GPS instruments can help you make better decisions, whether planning a construction project or surveying a property.