Principles Of Surveying – Detail Description

Basic Principles Of Surveying

The basic principles of surveying upon which the various methods of plane surveying are based can be stated under the two aspects as given below.

  1. Location of a point by measurement from two points of reference.
  2. Working from whole to part.

Let’s discuss the above-mentioned principles of surveying.

1. Location Of A Point By Measurement From Two Points Of Reference:

As per this rule, the relative position of a point to be surveyed should be located by measurement from at least two points of reference, the positions of which have already been fixed.

Principle of surveying from two points of reference
Location of a point by measurement from two points of reference

If P and Q are the two reference points on the ground surface, any other point, like R, can be located by any of the direct methods shown in the above figures. But, although a single method is adequate to locate the relative position of ‘R’ with respect to reference points P and Q, it is essential to adopt at least any two methods to fix the position of point ‘R’.

While the measurements made in either of the first method or second method will be useful in locating the point ‘R’, the measurements made in the other method will act as a check.

2. Working From Whole To Part:

As per this rule, it is always desirable to perform survey work from whole to part. It means, when an area is to be surveyed, first a system of control points is to be established covering the whole area with very high precision. Then other minor details are located by less precise methods.

Surveying principle: working from whole to part

The thought with from whole to part prevent the accumulation of errors and control and localize little errors which, otherwise, would expand to greater magnitudes if the reverse process is followed, hence making the work uncontrolled at the end.

Other Important Survey Principles

1. Accuracy:

To ensure accuracy in the final result, surveying requires precise measurements. The equipment used for surveying must be calibrated, and measurements must be taken with care and attention to detail.

2. Precision:

Taking precise and consistent measurements at various points on the surface of the earth is involved in surveying to ensure the final map or plan is accurate.

3. Continuity:

Surveying involves taking measurements over large areas of land. To ensure continuity, the surveyor must establish a network of control points, which are used to tie together all the measurements taken in the area.

4. Repeatability:

The measurements taken during a survey must be repeatable, so they can be verified or replicated at a later time. This is important for quality control and to ensure the accuracy of the final result.

5. Legibility:

The final map or plan produced from the survey must be legible and clear to understand. It must include all the necessary information about the area surveyed, such as property boundaries, topography, and features.

6. Safety:

Surveying often involves working in hazardous environments, such as construction sites or near roads. The surveyor must take appropriate safety measures to prevent accidents and ensure the safety of themselves and others around them.

Conclusion

A surveyor must have knowledge of these fundamental surveying principles. These principles help surveyors do their job effectively and ensure accurate results.

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