DEPARTMENT OF CIVIL ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY

UNIVERSITI MALAYSIA PERLIS

PAT153 – GEOMATIK

PREPARED BY :
LIYANA AHMAD SOFRI
MUHAMMAD MUNSIF AHMAD
AHMAD FAIZAL MANSOR
SHARKIZAM AZMI
PAT 153/3 – Geomatic FTK/JTKA

LABORATORY 1

INTRODUCTION TO DISTANCE MEASUREMENT AND BEARINGS

1.0 Objectives

1. To gain the knowledge of basic distance and bearing measurement techniques.

2. To gain the proficiency of taping determination and index sketch.

2.0 Introduction

In surveying, the distance between two points is understood to mean the horizontal distance,
regardless of the relative elevation of the two points. Frequently, the lay of the land between the
two points is not uniform, or the elevation of the two points is very different. Special equipment and
techniques method of determining distance are available along with special and different types of
equipment.

The degree of precision required is another factor which is required to be considered before a
measurement of distance is undertaken so that the correct type of equipment and method of
measurement may be done. An automatic level or dummy level was commonly used in surveying
work to transfer, measure or to set levels. It is useful to gather and/or transfer a known level to any
unknown level.

This survey work is a common practice and basic procedure during site surveys, building construction
or other civil structures. The basic measurement technique includes:

1. Pacing
2. Odometer readings
3. Taping
4. Electronic measurement
5. Global positioning system (GPS)

The common method of determining distance is by direct measurement with a tape. The tape is
called a “chain” and is usually 100ft in length. The term “chain” comes from the form of the early
tapes which were composed of 100 links, each one foot long. Brass tags were fastened at each ten
links and notches in the tags indicated the number of ten link segments between the tag and the end
of the tape. Therefore, the early tapes looked like a chain of one hundred links. Chain is also applied
to the operation of measuring lines with tapes. The term “taping” is gradually being used more
exclusively.

The distance measured with a steel tape is much more precise than the distance obtained by pacing.
The precision obtained depends upon the degree of refinement with which the measurements are
taken. Ordinarily, taping over flat, smooth ground with a steel tape or chain, divided in hundredths of
a foot, provided a precision of one in three thousand to one in five thousand.

A bearing is the direction of a line as given by the acute angle between the line and a meridian. The
bearing angle, which can be measured clockwise or counter-clockwise form the north or south end of
the meridian, is always accompanied by letters that locate the quadrant in which the line falls (NE,
NW, SE or SW)

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3.0 Apparatus

1. Graduated tape
2. Surveying compass
3. Plumb bob

4.0 Procedure

4.1 Taping of building structures

1. Lining in the tape over the desired length, rough in the location form Point 1 to Point 2.
2. Apply tension; tape has to be straight with both ends at same elevation, check to make sure
that the tape is straight, not twisted, and is more or less on line.
3. Reading the tape correctly (as L1). For the examples shown below, instead of trying to read
the tape exactly, you move the tape to an even digit, and then read the graduations at the
end.

4. From Point 2, measure the distance to point 3 (as L2).

5. Repeat the taping procedure of close-loop measurement until back to Point 1.

6. Once completed, prepare a neat hand sketch showing the arrangement of the framework
and approximate positions of the nearby objects. This index sketch or key plan also comprise
of Title, Legends, Drawing Scale and North Direction.

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4.2 Measurement of Bearings

1. Always transport the compass in case (always close case when not in use to prevent debris
from accumulating in the case).
2. Only screw instrument onto tripod head so that it is snug (do not over tighten or damage
could results).
3. Tripod must be in adjustment with leg clamps should securely tighten on adjustable legs.
4. Using hand level to setup instrument by levelling the bubble (once automatic levels are
setup, always tap the instrument to be sure that the needle is freely moving).
5. Start by measuring the bearing from Point 0 to Point 1, 2, 3 and 4 respectively and also the
distance from point 0. If the location involves a building structure, please include the taping
measurement of those structures.
6. Once completed, prepare a neat hand sketch showing the bearing that shows the proper
designation of the four lines. This sketch should include a table comprise of Line, Distance,
Bearings and Remarks.

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5.0 Results

 Taping of Building Structure.

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 Measurement of Bearings.

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Line Distance Bearing Remarks

0–1

0–2

0–3

0–4

0–5

0–6

0–7

6.0 Discussion

 Discuss the findings including the accuracy, limitation of the method used.

7.0 Conclusion

 Conclude your experimental results based on the objectives.

8.0 Questions

1. State the advantages of taping over Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) and Global
Positioning System (GPS)
2. Suppose you are asked to conduct a taping survey in a crowded town. What would you say?
3. Why the scale is always drawn in a map?
4. What is the principle of compass surveying?

9.0 References

1. Barry Kavanagh., ‘Surveying – Principles and Applications’, 8th Edition, Pearson

International Edition, 2009.

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LABORATORY 2
INTRODUCTION TO GEOMATIC INSTRUMENTS AND AUTO LEVEL WORK

1.0 OBJECTIVES

1. To gain the knowledge of basic geomatic work and instruments

2. To gain the proficiency of leveling determination

2.0 INTRODUCTION

An automatic level or dumpy level was commonly used in surveying work to transfer, measure or
to set levels. It is useful to gather and/or transfer a known level to any unkown level. This survey
work is a common practice and basic procedure during site surveys, building construction or
another civil structure.

This is a high powered telescope that has the ability to magnify the distance and design to very
specific job. Using the telescope the sightings on specific points and a horizontal cross hair, any
level determination work can be done easily. The lower part of the instrument there are spirit
bubble and leveling plate to adjust the horizontal position.

A variation on the dumpy level used by surveyors, where greater accuracy and error checking
had been introduced. These include dumpy level, the automatic or self-leveling, and the tilting
level.

Topcon AT-G7N

The work start from a reference point known as a benchmark, this may be a value from a known
survey point. The level is obtained by pointing the telescope to the bench mark. A staff shall be
place on top of the bench mark point to get the level. This level is a back sight (Point A) and the
reading level will be noted on the log book. From the next point of observing will be the fore
sight (Point B). This setting will move to next point until the end point.

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Method of Calculating of Reduced Level

There are two (2) methods of calculating level;
1. The collimation method (the height of instrument method)
2. The rise-and-fall method

The Collimation method

The level of the collimation line is said to be the height of the instrument. In this method, the height
of the collimation is found out by adding the back sight (BS) reading of the reduced level of the
benchmark on which the back sight is taken. Then the reduced level of the intermediate points and
the change points are obtained by subtracting the respective staff readings from the height of the
instrument (HI).

The level is then shifted for the next setup and again the height of the line of the collimation is
obtained by adding the back sight reading of the reduced level (RL) of the change point (which was
calculated in the first set).

So, the height of the instrument is different in different setups of the level. Two adjacent planes of
collimation are correlated at the change point by a front sight (FS) reading from one setting and a
back sight (BS) reading from the next setting. In this system, the reduced levels (RL) of the unknown
points are to be found by deducting the staff readings from reduced level (RL) of the height of the
instrument.

RL of HI in 1st setting = 100.000 + 1.255 = 101.255

a) RL of A = 101.255 – 1.750 = 99.505
RL of B = 101.255 – 2.150 = 99.105
b) RL of HI in 2nd setting = 99.105 + 2.750 = 101.855
RL of C = 101.855 – 1.950 = 99.905
RL of D = 101.855 – 1.550 = 100.305

Arithmetical check = ∑ BS - ∑ FS = Last RL – 1st RL

The different between the sum of the back sights and that of fore sights must be equal to the
difference between the last RL and the first RL. This check verifies the calculation of the RL of the HI
and that of the change point. There is no check on the RLs of the intermediate points.

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The rise-and-fall method

In this system, the difference of level between two consecutive points is determined by comparing
each forward staff reading with the staff reading at the immediately preceding point.

If the forward staff reading is smaller than the immediately preceding staff reading, a rise is said to
have occurred. The rise is added to the RL of the preceding point to get the RL of the forward point.
If the forward staff reading is greater than the immediately preceding staff reading, it means there
has been a fall. The fall is subtracted from the RL of preceding point to get the RL of the forward
point.

Point A (with respect to BM) = 0.75 – 1.25 = - 0.50 (fall)

Point B (with respect to A) = 1.25 – 2.75 = - 1.50 (fall)
Point C (with respect to B) = 2.75 – 1.50 = + 1.25 (rise)
Point D (with respect to C) = 1.50 – 1.75 = - 0.25 (rise)

RL of BM = 100.00
RL of A = 100.000 – 0.50 = 99.50
RL of B = 99.50 – 1.50 = 98.00z
RL of C = 98.00 + 1.25 = 99.25
RL of D = 99.25 – 0.25 = 99.00

In this method, the difference between the sum of BSs and the FSs, the difference between the sum
of rises and the falls and the difference of the last RL, and the first RL must be equal.The arithmetical
check is meant only for the accuracy of calculation to be verified. It does not verify the accuracy of
field work. There is a complete check on the RLs of intermediate points in the rise-and-fall method.
In Malaysia the common practice is the rise and fall system due to its simplicity and standardization.

Comparison of the two methods

Collimation Method Rise-and-fall Method
1. It is rapid and involves few calculation 1. It is laborious and several calculations
2. There is no check on the RLs of intermediate 2. There is a check on the RL of intermediate
points. points.
3. Errors in intermediate RLs cannot be 3. Errors in intermediate RLs can be detected
detected. as all points are correlated.
4. There are two checks on the accuracy of RL 4. There are three checks on the accuracy of
calculation. RL calculation.
5. This system is suitable of longitudinal 5. This system is suitable for fly leveling where
leveling where there are a number of there are no intermediate sights.
intermediate sights.

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3.0 APPARATUS

1. Topcon AT-G7N Auto Level set with tripod

2. Measurement staff

4.0 PROCEDURE

4.1 Carrying and Setup

4.1.1 Always transport equipment in case.
4.1.2 Always close case when not in use to prevent debris from accumulating in the
case
4.1.3 Only screw instrument onto tripod head so that it is snug. DO NOT OVER TIGHTEN, OR
DAMAGE COULD HAPPENED. Your break it, you pay for it!
4.1.4 Tripod must be in adjustment
4.1.4.1 Bolts and screws properly adjusted on tripod
4.1.4.2 Legs should fall slowly of its own weight after being placed in a
horizontal position.
4.1.5 Leg clamps should securely tighten on adjustable legs.
4.1.6 Always loosen leg clamps when storing tripod to prevent damage to leg (i.e. Crushing of
wood fibers caused by expansion of wood due to humidity.
4.1.7 Using hand level determines best location to setup instrument. Remember back sights and
foresights must be balanced between benchmarks, but not for an individual setup. Plan
route of leveling circuit, and setup locations that minimize setups, and thus errors between
benchmarks.
4.1.8 Leveling screw follows left-thumb rule as shown in below sketch. That is, bubble will move in
direction of left thumb. Right thumb should move in opposite direction.
4.1.9 Once automatic levels are setup, always tap the instrument to be sure that the automatic
compensator is freely moving.

4.2 Work Procedure

4.2.1 Member of the team shall determine the benchmark point with the known level before
any work started. The distance between the benchmark and the auto level shall be in
range of 15 meters to 20 meters.

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4.2.2 The spot for the auto level is chose and been marked as transfer point (for example,
marked as P1, P2 etc.). These points will be marked as clear as possible and easy to be
identified for later reference.
4.2.3 At the point of P1 (Position 1), point the instrument to benchmark (BM) and get the
reading (back sight). A member of the group shall put the survey staff on the top of the
benchmark and hold in vertically. To check the verticality, a spirit bubble should be held
together with the survey staff.
4.2.4 Without moving the auto level position, rotate it and get the reading at the point A.
4.2.5 Move the auto level to a new position and marked it as P2 (Position 2), set and level the
instrument properly. Point the auto level to the Point B and get the reading (back sight) and
then point it forward to Point C (fore sight). Repeat the procedure until the end point.

5.0 RESULTS
Refer to answer sheet.

6.0 DISCUSSION
Discuss the finding.

7.0 CONCLUSION
Conclude your experimental results based on the objectives.

8.0 QUESTIONS
8.1 What are bench-marks?
8.2 State the difference between the collimation method and rise-and-fall method.
8.3 The staff readings on A and B are 1.735 and 0.965 respectively. Which point is higher?
8.4 What are the arithmetical check for the collimation method and the rise and fall method?

9.0 REFERENCES

9.1 Barry Kavanagh., ‘Surveying – Principles and Applications’, 8th Edition, Pearson
International Edition, 2009.

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Lab 2 Answer Sheet

Name : _____________________________ Mark:

Student number : _____________________________

Date : _____________________________

Collimation Method and Rise-and-Fall Method

No. Back Middle Fore Collimate Reduced Correction Reduced Note

Sight Sight Sight Line Level Level
Rise
Fall

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1. State the other equipment that can be used in this particular geomatic
method.
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2. State the difference between the collimation and rise-and-fall method

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3. This basic geomatic work is for

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4. The conclusion for this experiment

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LAB 3: TRAVERSING WITH THEODOLITE

1.0 OBJECTIVE

Gain proficiency in the use of theodolite. Complete a closed traverse with theodolite, record and
calculate field data of a traverse. Compute azimuths for each side of the traverse.

2.0 INTRODUCTION

Traverse is a series of survey points whose relative positions are determined by measured distances
and direction between each set of consecutive points. The measured distances are usually referred
to as “course” or “leg”. The survey points are called “traverse stations”, P.I.s (point of intersection)
or angle points. Normally, some types of mark is left in the ground or roadway to indicate each
survey point. These points are commonly marked with wooden pegs, stakes, nails or iron pipes.

Traversing is a rapid convenient method for establishing control. The main purposes of traverses
are:-
i. Property surveys to locate and establish boundaries.
ii. Supplementary horizontal control for topographic mapping survey.
iii. Location and construction layout surveys for highways, railways and other private or public
work.
iv. Ground control for photogrammetric surveys

Advantages – Four principle advantages result from traverse Surveys:

i. Flexibility – since a rigid, geometrical form is not required, obstacles and problem areas can
be avoided.
ii. Blunder detection – blunders in positioning subordinate surveys points can be detected if
the points are included as stations is a closed traverse.
iii. Economy – traversing requires a minimum of reconnaissance in the planning phase
(compared with triangulation or trilateration).
iv. Linearity – the linear nature of traverse conforms to that of transportation corridors.

Open traverse originate at a point of know position and end at a point of unknown position. No
computational checks are therefore possible to detect any errors or blunders in distances or
direction. Open traverse are very risks and should be avoided.

Closed traverse starts and end on points of know position. Since the beginning and end points are
know, this provides a computational check on the measurements and calculations. Systematic errors
and blunders can be detected in both the distance and directions. In addition to providing know
positions for the starts and end points, at least one know bearing or azimuth is also provided for
closed traverses. More than one bearing is required to prevent the entire traverse from ‘pivoting’
about a single known point.

A traverse that starts and end on the same points is called a loop traverse. If the point is know, then
it is closed loop traverse. Loop traverse are geometrically and mathematically closed, so it is
therefore to provide a mathematical check on the sum of internal angles of the traverse. For a closed
polygon
Σ (internal angles) = (n – 2) 1800
Where n is the number of angles measured.

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Traversing involves measuring both length and directions of lines. Distances are commonly
measured using either EDM or tape. Distances are usually measured in both the forward and reverse
directions. Directions can be determined by directly reading bearings or azimuths, measuring interior
angles (closed loop traverse), measuring deflection angles.

3.0 APPARATUS

i. Theodolite
ii. Tripod
iii. 30 m steel tape (chain) or 50 m linen
iv. One survey field book
v. 6 small wooden pegs
vi. Plumb line

Setting Up the Theodolite:

This procedure is designed to help new users of survey equipment understand the procedure to
efficiently set up an angle reading device, such as a total station or a theodolite. This is simply a
tutorial designed to help; actual hands-on experience is the only effective way to become proficient
in setting up instruments. This supplement may be used on almost any equipment that requires
precise placement over a point.

1. Start by placing the tripod over the point with the legs spread and extended about Halfway. You
want to have the plate as level as possible.

2. Mount the instrument in the center of the plate with the shape of the instrument bottom
plate and the tripod plate shape aligned. Make sure the leveling screws are in the mid-position
with the midpoint lines showing on each shaft.

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3. Leaving one leg of the tripod in the ground, pick up the two legs nearest you while looking
through the optical plummet. Rotate and maneuver the tripod until the optical plummet sight is on
the point. A good tip is to use the point of your shoe to help you find the point in the view of the
plummet. You do not have to be directly on the center of the monument at this point, only close.
Continue to ensure your tripod plate is level. This will require a little patience to assure a good setup.
Firmly embed all points of the tripod into the ground.

4. Adjust the leveling screws until the target is directly in the center of the optical plumb sight.

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5. Coarsely level the instrument by adjusting the leg length of the tripod. When out of level, the
level bubble will be on the high side. Select two legs to adjust, leave the third in its existing
position and length. When adjusting the legs, it is a good idea to stand on the leg being adjusted,
as to prevent the leg from being pulled out of the ground, which will necessitate starting the
setup again.

6. Finely level the instrument by adjusting the leveling screws. You should not have to turn any level
screw more than 2 full turns to bring the instrument close to level. If necessary, repeat the extension
and/or retraction of the tripod legs to bring the instrument closer to level. Keep in mind also that
you must look through this instrument; therefore it is essential that you maintain the eyepiece of the
telescope at a comfortable height.

7. After getting the instrument very close to level, turn the fine level vial on top of the instrument
carriage parallel to the leveling screw nearest the coarse level bubble (my finger points at this on the
lower right of the picture) and another level screw. Leaving the leveling screw nearest the coarse
level bubble alone for the remainder of the setup, adjust the second screw until the bubble is
perfectly aligned in the middle of the vial.

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8. Rotate the instrument upper motion 90 degrees, which will rotate the plane of the level vial.
Adjust the remaining leveling screw until the vial is precisely centered. Do not adjust the leveling
screw nearest the coarse level bubble for any reason (my finger points at this below).

9. Check the position of the instrument by looking through the optical plummet. If the sight is not
precisely over the target, then adjust the position of the instrument by loosening the hold down
screw and carefully sliding the instrument on the tripod plate until it is lined up. Do not rotate the
base of the instrument. Check the level once again as in steps 7 & 8, assure the instrument is over
the point, and you are ready to measure.

4.0 EXPERIMENTAL PROCEDURE

1. Each team will be assigned a location on campus to perform closed traverse.

2. Each team should walk around their location and develop a plan for their traverse.
3. Place your wooden pegs (at least one per person in your group) around your traverse location.
They should also have a good shot or view to the next traverse station. In addition, be sure you
can set the instruments up over each of these stations easily.
4. A tripod is placed above the pegs and a plumb line made to fall vertically above the pin point of
the pegs.
5. In the absence of a plumb line, (a piece of lead with a tapering end hung to the base of the
tripod with a thin piece of thread), plum-bob is placed at the point of convergence of the legs of
the tripod, and made to drop freely onto the top of the pegs.
6. If the plum-bob falls right on top of the central pin of the pegs, the tripod may be considered as
being vertically above the pegs.
7. Repeat the same procedure, to set up the theodolite at the traverse station.
8. On your field book, note important information (date, weather, total station number) as well as
a nice sketch.
9. For each station set up, note the station occupied.
10. Once the instrument is leveled over the station point, record a horizontal angle.
11. Be sure to measure each horizontal twice. For the second angle, hold the 1 st value and measure
the double horizontal angle.
12. Move to next point and continue (it is best to move around the traverse counterclockwise). Each
team member MUST set up the theodolite and measure one angle of the traverse.
13. Calculate the error of your traverse.

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5.0 RESULT

Point Bearing Distance Latitude Departure Total Total

N S W S latitude departure

6.0 DISCUSSION
Discuss the finding.

7.0 CONCLUSION
Conclude your experimental results based on the objectives.
8.0 QUESTIONS
8.1 Explain the differences and similarities between a polygon and link traverse.
8.2 Explain the differences between an open and closed traverse.
8.3 List four (4) pertinent considerations in selecting locations for traverse stations.
8.4 What should be the sum of the interior angles for a closed-polygon traverse that has: * (a) 6
sides (b) 5 sides (c) 12 sides

9.0 REFERENCES
9.1 Barry Kavanagh., ‘Surveying – Principles and Applications’, 8th Edition, Pearson
International Edition, 2009.

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Lab 3 Answer Sheet

Name : _____________________________ Mark:

Student number : _____________________________

Date : _____________________________

1. Data collection of Traversing with Theodolite

Point Bearing Distance Latitude Departure Total Total
N S W S latitude departure

Total (∑) ∑ ∑ ∑ ∑ ∑

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2. Draw the survey plot complete with horizontal bearing and distance line. Show the
north direction in the drawing. (use extra paper if needed)

3. State the difference the open traverse and closed traverse.

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4. What is the usage of compass on this particular survey work?

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5. Stated the reasons of error and mistakes in this survey work.

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6. What is your own conclusion of this particular work?

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LABORATORY 4

INTRODUCTION TO TACHEOMETRY

1.0 Objectives

1. To learn the basic tacheometric work

2. Gain proficiency in the use of theodolite in tacheometric

2.0 Introduction

Tacheometry is a branch of surveying work which horizontal and vertical distance are determined by
taking angular observation with an instrument known as a tacheometry. The most advantage of
tacheometry work is the elimination of chains or tapes. This particular work is adopted in rough and
difficult terrain where direct levelling and chaining are either not possible or dangerous. It is also
used in survey location such as railways, roads and reservoir. Theodolite with stadia/staff are basic
instrument used in tacheometry.

2.1 Tacheometry Methods

This particular survey work involved two main methods:

1. The stadia method

2. The tangential method

2.1.1 The stadia method

In the stadia method, the diaphragm of the tacheometry is provided with two stadia hairs (upper and
lower). Looking through the telescope the stadia hair readings are taken. The difference in these
readings gives the staff intercept. To determine the distance between the station and the staff, the
staff intercept is multiplied by the stadia constant (normally 100). The stadia method can be divided
two:

2.1.1.1 The Fixed Hair Method

The distance between the stadia hair is fixed in this method, which is the one commonly used.
When the staf is sighted through the telescope, a certain portion of the staff is intercepted by the
upper and lower stadia.

The value of the staff intercept varies with the distance. However, the distance between the
station and the staff can be obtained by multiplying the staff intercept by the stadia constant.

2.1.1.2 The Moveable Hair Method

The stadia hairs are not fixed in this method. They can be moved or adjusted by micrometer
screws. The staf is provided with two targets or vanes a known distance apart. During
observation, the distance between stadia hairs is adjusted so that the upper hair bisects the
upper target and the lower hair bisects the lower target. The variable stadia intercept is
measured and the required distance is then computed. This method is not generally used.

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2.1.2 The Tangential Method

In this method, the diaphragm of the tacheometer is not provided with the stadia hair. The readings
are taken by the single horizontal hair. The staf consists of two vanes or targets a known distance
apart. To measure the staff intercept, two pointing are required. The angles of elevation or
depression are measured and their tangents are used for finding the horizontal distances and
elevations. The method is also not commonly used. The stadia method requires only one observation
but the tangential method requires two pointing of the telescope.

2.2 Setting up the theodolite

This procedure is designed to assist new users to understand basic procedure on how to set up an
angle reading device efficiently, such as total station and theodolite. Since the most effective way to
be proficient to set up instruments is by hand-on experience, this tutorial is designed to assist on the
hands-on training. This supplement may be used on almost any equipment that requires precise
placement over a point.

1. Start by placing the tripod over the point with the legs spread and extended about halfway. You
want to have the plate as level as possible.
2. Mount the instrument in the centre of the plate with the shape of the instrument bottom plate
and the tripod plate shape aligned. Make sure the levelling screws are in the mid-position with
the midpoint lines showing on each shaft.
3. Leave one leg of the tripod on the ground; pick up the two legs nearest you while looking
through the optical plummet. Rotate and manoeuvre the tripod until the optical plummet sight is
on the point. A good tip is to use the point of your shoe to help you find the point in the view of
the plummet. You do not have to be directly on the centre of the monument at this point, only
close. Continue to ensure your tripod plate is level. This will require a little patience to assure a
good setup. Firmly embed all points of the tripod into the ground.
4. Adjust the levelling screws until the target is directly in the centre of the optical plumb sight.
5. Coarsely level the instrument by adjusting the leg length of the tripod. When out of level, the
level bubble will be on the high side. Select two legs to adjust, leave the third in its existing
position and length. When adjusting the legs, it is a good idea to stand on the leg being adjusted,
as to prevent the leg from being pulled out of the ground, which will necessitate starting the
setup again.
6. Finely level the instrument by adjusting the levelling screws. You should not have to turn any
level screw more than 2 full turns to bring the instrument close to level. If necessary, repeat the
extension and/or retraction of the tripod leg to bring the instrument closer to level. Keep in mind
also that you must look through this instrument; therefore it is essential that you maintain the
eyepiece of the telescope at a comfortable sight.
7. After getting the instrument very close to level, turn the fine level vial on top of the instrument
carriage parallel to the levelling screw nearest the course level bubble (my finger points at this on
the lower right of the picture) and another level screw. Leaving the levelling screw nearest the
coarse level bubble alone for the remainder of the setup, adjust the second screw until the
bubble is perfectly aligned in the middle of the vial.

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8. Rotate the instrument upper motion 90 degrees, which will rotate the plane of the level vial.
Adjust the remaining levelling screw until the vial is precisely centred. Do not adjust the levelling
screw nearest the coarse level bubble for any reason (finger points at this below).
9. Check the position of the instrument by looking through the optical plummet. If the sight in not
precisely over the target, then adjust the position of the instrument by loosening the hold down
screw and carefully sliding the instrument on the tripod plate until it is lined up. Do not rotate
the base of the instrument. Check the level once again as in steps 7 & 8, assure the instrument is
over the point, and you are ready to measure.

3.0 Apparatus

1. Theodolite
2. Tripod
3. Graduated tape
4. Survey field book
5. Small wooden pegs
6. Plumb line

4.0 Procedure

1. Each team should walk around their location and develop a plan for their traverse.
2. Place your wooden pegs (at least one per person in your group) around your traverse location.
They should also have a good shot or view to the next traverse station. In addition, be sure you
can set the instruments up over each of these stations easily.
3. A tripod is placed above the pegs and a plumb line made to fall vertically above the pin point of
the pegs.
4. In the absence of a plumb line, (a piece of lead with a tapering end hung to the base of the tripod
with a thin piece of thread), plumb-bob is placed at the point of convergence of the legs of the
tripod, and made to drop freely onto the top of the pegs.
5. If the plum-bob falls right on top of the central pin of the pegs, the tripod may be considered as
being vertically above the pegs.
6. Repeat the same procedure, to set up the theodolite at the traverse station.
7. On your field book note important information (date, weather, total station number, sketch).
8. For each station set up, note the station occupied.
9. Once the instrument is levelled over the station point, record a horizontal angle. Then observe
the vertical angle given and record it.
10. Be sure to measure each twice. For the second angle, hold the 1 st value and measure the angle.
11. Move to next point and continue (it is best to move around the traverse counter clockwise). Each
team member must set up the theodolite and measure one angle of the traverse. All result and
data shall be calculated in the work sheet.

Formula:
Horizontal Height, H = 100 S kos2

Vertical Height, V= 50 S sin2 Ɵ

Where, S = the distance of upper stadia to lower stadia

Ɵ = the angle from the horizontal line to the point line

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5.0 Results

Table with results

Station Height of inst. Horizontal Vertical Angle Staff Reading Staff Reading Horizontal Vertical Elevation Actual Level
(m) Angle Middle Upper & Lower Distance, H Different Different (m)
(m) (m) (m) (m)

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6.0 Discussion

Discuss your conclusion of this experiment in term of time consumption and comparison to
traversing.

7.0 Conclusion

Conclude your experimental results based on the objectives.

8.0 Questions

1. Draw the survey plot complete with bearing and distance line. Show the north direction in
the drawing. The drawing must be in scale.
2. Discuss the following error in tacheomaetry:
a) Instrumental error
b) Errors of observation
c) Errors due to natural cause

References

1. Barry Kavanagh., ‘Surveying – Principles and Applications’, 8th Edition, Pearson International
Edition, 2009

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LABORATORY 5

INTRODUCTION TO
ELECTRONIC DISTANCE MEASUREMENT (EDM)
WITH TOTAL STATION

1.0 OBJECTIVES
1.1 To learn the principle of electronic distance measurement
1.2 Gain proficiency using Total Station with EDM

2.0 INTRODUCTION
Electronics distance measurement or EDM, was introduced in 1950s, has undergone
refinement until today. The early instruments, which were capable of precise
measurement over long distances, were large, expansive, complicated and hard. Rapid
advances in the related technologies have refine it into small, inexpensive and easy to
use. Now the instruments are manufactured for use with theodolites and as integral
component of total station instruments.
Current EDM instruments now using the infra red or laser lights with a prism as a
reflector. In the earlier day of EDM, the microwave system was use, due to lower
accuracy result its only used in certain application such as hydrographic survey and
upper measuring range distance.
Prism are used with the electro-optical EDM instrument to reflect the transmitted signal.
A single reflector is a cube corner prism that has characteristic of reflecting light rays
precisely back to the emitting EDM instrument. This capability means that the prism can
be misaligned with the respect to the EDM instrument and still be effective.
EDM instrument accuracies are stated in the terms of a constant instrument error and a
measuring error proportional to the distance being measured. Typically, accuracy is
claimed as + 5mm/km.
The slope distance measurement is accomplished by simply pressing the measure
button and waiting a few second for the result to appear in the display. EDM
instruments with built-in calculators or microprocessors can now be used to compute
horizontal and vertical distances; coordinates, curvature and prism constant corrections.

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For this experiment, the total station (theodolite with EDM attached) will be introduced.
Basically, the procedures of the instrument are much the same like the typical
theodolite.

2.1 How to set up the theodolite :

2.1.1 Start by placing the tripod over the point with the legs spread and extended
about halfway. You want to have the plate as level as possible.

2.1.2 Mount the instrument in the center of the plate with the shape of the
instrument bottom plate and the tripod plate shape aligned. Make sure the
leveling screws are in the mid-position with the midpoint lines showing on
each shaft.

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2.1.3 Leave one leg of the tripod in the ground, pick up the two legs nearest you
while looking through the optical plummet. Rotate and maneuver the tripod
until the optical plummet sight is on the point. A good tip is to use the point of
your shoe to help you find the point in the view of the plummet.

You do not have to be directly on the center of the monument at this point,
only close. Continue to ensure your tripod plate is level. This will require a
little patience to assure a good setup. Firmly embed all points of the tripod
into the ground.

2.1.4 Adjust the leveling screws until the target is directly in the center of the
optical plumb sight.

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2.1.5 Coarsely level the instrument by adjusting the leg length of the tripod. When
out of level, the level bubble will be on the high side. Select two legs to adjust,
leave the third in its existing position and length. When adjusting the legs, it is
a good idea to stand on the leg being adjusted, as to prevent the leg from
being pulled out of the ground, which will necessitate starting the setup again.

2.1.6 Finely level the instrument by adjusting the leveling screws. You should not
have to turn any level screw more than 2 full turns to bring the instrument
close to level. If necessary, repeat the extension and/or retraction of the
tripod legs to bring the instrument closer to level. Keep in mind also that you
must look through this instrument, therefore it is essential that you maintain
the eyepiece of the telescope at a comfortable height.

2.1.7 After getting the instrument very close to level, turn the fine level vial on top
of the instrument carriage parallel to the leveling screw nearest the coarse
level bubble (my finger points at this on the lower right of the picture) and
another level screw. Leaving the leveling screw nearest the coarse level
bubble alone for the remainder of the setup, adjust the second screw until the
bubble is perfectly aligned in the middle of the vial.

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2.1.8 Rotate the instrument upper motion 90 degrees, which will rotate the plane of
the level vial. Adjust the remaining leveling screw until the vial is precisely
centered. Do not adjust the leveling screw nearest the coarse level bubble for
any reason (my finger points at this below).

2.1.9 Check the position of the instrument by looking through the optical plummet.
If the sight is not precisely over the target, then adjust the position of the
instrument by loosening the hold down screw and carefully sliding the
instrument on the tripod plate until it is lined up. Do not rotate the base of the
instrument. Check the level once again as in steps 7 & 8, assure the
instrument is over the point, and you are ready to measure.

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3.0 APPARATUS
3.1 Total Station/Thedolite with prism
3.2 Tripods
3.3 One survey field book
3.4 Small wooden pegs

4.0 PROCEDURE
4.1 Each team should walk around their location and develop a plan for their traverse.
4.2 Place your wooden pegs (at least one per person in your group) around your
traverse location. They should also have a good shot or view to the next traverse
station. In addition, be sure you can set the instruments up over each of these
stations easily.
4.3 A tripod is placed above the pegs and a plumb line made to fall vertically above
the pin point of the pegs.
4.4 In the absence of a plumb line, (a piece of lead with a tapering end hung to the
base of the tripod with a thin piece of thread), plum-bob is placed at the point of
convergence of the legs of the tripod, and made to drop freely onto the top of
the pegs.
4.5 If the plum-bob falls right on top of the central pin of the pegs, the tripod may be
considered as being vertically above the pegs.
4.6 Repeat the same procedure, to set up the theodolite at the traverse station.
4.7 On your field book note important information (date, weather, total station
number) as well as a nice sketch.
4.8 For each station set up, note the station occupied.
4.9 Once the instrument is leveled over the station point, record a horizontal angle.
4.10 Be sure to measure each horizontal twice. For the second angle, hold the 1 st value.
And measure the double horizontal angle.
4.11 Once the horizontal angle had been taken, press the EDM button to get the
distance for this particular point. Make sure the focus point truly pointed at the
prism point. Adjust the total station and wait until the beeping sound.
4.12 Move to next point and continue (it is best to move around the traverse counter
clockwise). Each team member MUST set up the total station and measure one
angle of the traverse. All result and data shall be calculated in the work sheet.

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5.0 RESULTS
Sketch the result to scale.

6.0 DISCUSSION
Please describe the best work situation where the EDM technology can give the advantage in
term of cost and time.

7.0 CONCLUSION
Conclude your experimental results based on the objectives.

8.0 QUESTIONS
8.1 Draw the survey plot complete with horizontal bearing and distance line. Include
the electronic measurement distance measured during the experiment.

9.0 REFERENCES
9.1 Barry Kavanagh., ‘Surveying – Principles and Applications’, 8th Edition, Pearson
International Edition, 2009.