Topographic Surveying Techniques Guide
Topographic Surveying Techniques Guide
Planimetry
Generalities:………………………………………………………………………………………. 2
- Definition
- Representation
- Scale, accuracy
- Plans
The Planimetry: 13
- Linear measures
- Alignments
- Planimetric survey methods
- Special cases
Altimetry
Indirect leveling: ………………………………………………………….………………….. 37
- Principle
- Particular case
1) Definition.
The word topography comes from the Greek topos (the place) and graphein (to describe).
Topography is the set of operations that allow for the graphical representation of the
configuration of the land with all the details found there, the study of a project, the layout.
LIGHT IMPLANTATION
Terrain Achievement
Regarding distances, they must be either measured directly horizontally (most common case...
current), either following the slope and then reduced (trigonometric calculation).
Regarding angular measurements, they are directly taken on the field using a
instrument determining horizontal angles: the alignment circle.
Generally, for routine work, the limited extent of the area to be represented allows for neglecting the
corrections due to the sphericity of the earth. Thus, in the case of small extent, one will take as the surface of
reference a plane perpendicular to all verticals.
dimension plan
Echelle=
terrain dimension
By convention, the larger the scale, the smaller the denominator and vice versa. Depending on the extent.
From the area of land, we will refer to a map (small or medium scale) or a plan (large scale).
Maps
Topographic maps
A topographic plan is merely a tool to have an accurate image of the terrain in the office.
in order to be able to use all its possibilities It is the needs of the user that must be complied with
topographer in the choice of scale and precision to be achieved, therefore the processes to be used.
It is accepted that for an experienced designer, under good working conditions, their precision
The graph is +/-0.2 mm. This leads to some constraints in terms of measurements on the ground.
In all cases, it will be necessary to adapt one's working method and material to the requirements.
4) Execution of plans.
The set of measures that need to be taken on the ground to obtain the elements of its representation
The graph constitutes what is called a 'site plan'.
To represent the terrain, which is a volume in three dimensions, on a plane, a two-dimensional flat surface.
dimensions, one readily understands that we are led to make two distinct representations.
Also, among the measures taken on the ground, it will be necessary to distinguish:
those that provide horizontal projections of ground details and constitute the planimetry.
those that allow for the definition of contours and elevation curves and are the subject of altimetry.
Thus, we will consider two types of plans: the planimetric plan - position of points on the terrain.
only - (e.g. cadastral plan) and the topographical plan - indication of the position and altitude of the points
(ex road project).
LAMBERT system.
In order to establish plans with satisfactory precision, regardless of the scale, it was absolutely necessary
determine a number of points throughout the territory, clearly visible from one another (thus placed
relatively high), which would serve as support for all common topographic measurements. Thus
what was created and then developed through a technique called triangulation, the geodetic network in France
(or geodesic canvas).
There are nearly 100,000 geodetic points that cover the country with a network.
homogeneous with a density of 1 point every km. The points are marked.
sustainably - most commonly by a terminal - and chosen in such a way
that from a point, it should be possible to observe the neighboring points. Each point being the
peak of a triangle chain, its position is determined by measurements
of angles and distances measured using high-precision instruments
(theodolite and distance meters); hence the name triangulation given to this
method. Some distances between points of the network are measured with a
extreme precision. These are the geodetic bases. From these well-defined bases
distributed, it is possible to ensure good scaling of the network. A
General error compensation ensures the uniformity of the whole.
For the representation of a portion of an ellipsoid on a plane, the I.G.N. chose the Lambert system.
(conic projection) thus creating a Lambert grid. This grid allows all these points to be designated by
their rectangular coordinates (X,Y).
To avoid excessive distortions (curvature of the Earth), France is divided into 4 zones:
All these points are perfectly recorded on 'geodetic point mapping notebooks' and
Their contact details are listed on information sheets. These sheets are made available to
surveyors at the I.G.N. (National Geographic Institute).
This diagram gives a simplified way (in the plan and not
in space), the principle of operation of a receiver
GPS used to position a mobile device that carries it (in
in three-dimensional space, four satellites are needed instead of
three).
The satellites each have a very accurate atomic clock.
precise, these clocks are synchronized ("they indicate the
same time). At 'zero' time, everyone emits a pulse.
which propagates in space in concentric waves to
satellites. The mobile receives these impulses in turn at
times t1, t2, t3..., which should in principle allow for measurement
the distance of the mobile to each satellite, since the waves
propagates at the speed of light, denoted as c. Indeed, if the
mobile has a clock that "is on time" in relation to
that of the satellites, he will know exactly the times t1, t2,
t3... arrival of the impulses and will deduce the distances to
satellites ct1, ct2, ct3. Knowing the position of these.
at the time of the broadcast, thanks to the messages sent by the
satellite itself, the receiver will find that the three circles
focused on the satellites intersect at a single point
his position.
When it comes to IGN 69 coordinates, the mention 'normal altitudes' appears in the margin of
each page.
In case of the publication of double odds, the old odds have been crossed out.
If no mention is made, it consists solely of old ratings.
Note: in the Lyon region, to obtain the normal altitudes IGN 69, add + 24 cm to the values.
ancient system LALLEMAND.
The theodolite is one of the most technically complex surveying instruments, but its principle
is relatively simple, just like its use.
It is mainly used to measure horizontal and vertical angles and to obtain precise alignments.
1) Description.
A theodolite has several parts that can rotate around certain axes.
Main axis
Secondary axis or
axis of the pegs
(axis of rotation and the
eyeglass
Optical axis
c
b
a
a) The base: connection between the measuring instruments and the tripod.
It includes 3 locking screws (level adjustment).
b) The limb: Graduated circle (horizontal circle) with divisions in degrees (principally fixed during the
measurements) and whose center is located on the main axis. It also includes a spherical level.
The spherical level is used to indicate the vertical or horizontal of an element of the theodolite but of
approximately.
The toric or tubular level serves the same purpose but in a much more precise manner.
2) Setting up.
Topography - DUT Civil Engineering - Belfort 7/49
Order of the Manipulation Parties
operations activated
Fine centering:
Approached calibration:
Mounting bracket of
Check: Ensure that we are still centered on the station, otherwise move the theodolite to
the platform, then start the fine adjustment again.
theodolite at
tripod.
This allows for appreciating the angular closure and the precision required in measuring angles.
Vertical angles.
4) Control.
A control, the "double backflip," allows on one hand to avoid a foul and on the other hand to bring
better accuracy by reducing errors in angle measurement.
It consists of performing 2 rotations: from the eyepiece around the secondary axis
of the alidade around the main axis
We obtain readings taken between the position CG (circle on the left) and CD (circle on the right):
T16
- Vertical collimation level?
- Directly perform reading V
(white) or HZ (yellow).
T2
- Select the type of angle to
to measure
Vertical
Horizontal
Electronic device
Initialization of
circles by
tilting of the
0 of the vertical circle to
eyeglasses.
zenith or at nadir.
V: vertical angle
HOLD put in
memory of reading
horizontal.
"R/L": meaning of
graduation of the limbus
THE PLANIMETRY
Topography - DUT Civil Engineering - Belfort 12/49
Linear measures.
a-Direct measurement of distances.
The most common measuring instrument for length in surveying is the meter (20, 30, 50 m). Its
usage is simple, provided that certain specific rules are followed:
good placement of the "zero" on the station axis, the angle of the wall…
well-unwound ribbon (not twisted)
correct tape tension
ribbon well horizontal (especially in suspended mode)
Enjoy reading on the ribbon (avoid inversions).
When the distance to be measured is greater than the length of the tape, it will be beneficial to
to materialize one or more intermediate points. It will be imperative that these points are on the alignment
formed by the extreme points (this operation is generally done by eye).
When the ground is uneven (steep slope > 5%), in addition to the tape, we will use a plumb.
of axis (plumb line). The measurement principle, called cultation, is that of measurements in 'stairs'.
The difficulties we will encounter will be:
As a general rule, it will be beneficial for this type of measurement to proceed from the highest point downwards.
lowest point.
The advances made in electronics and computer science over the past 10 years have revolutionized the
topometry field. The surveyor operator now has, to measure distances,
of instruments equipped with a transmitter-receiver operating on the principle of wave emission,
where it is reflected after reaching a set of prisms. The result is obtained in a few
seconds and is displayed on an internal screen of the instrument.
Aim at the target, then record the two readings on target L1 and L2 as well as the vertical angle Z.
g
low stadimetric wire
g = L1 - L2
L1
L2
Dh=100 . G . sin² Z
Note:
A trick can simplify calculations: aim at the target with a horizontal sight (in the case of the level), one
thus directly obtaining the horizontal distance Dh=100.
Calculations:
- triangles resolution by the sine analogy: a / sin A = b / sin B = c / sin C
by the formula c² = a² + b² - [Link] C
2) Alignments.
To solve alignment issues, there is a very simple tool called the optical square.
which is coupled either to a plumb line or to a weighted rod. Its principle is based on the use of
mirrors, one giving an image coming from the left at an angle of 00.00 degrees, the other an image
coming from the right (case of the square with double prisms). Often, a small "window" allows
to observe straight ahead (direct sight); it is through the overlapping of images that one obtains
the desired points.
Create any alignment, lower the perpendicular from J1 to this new alignment
measureJ1Hetd. InH1, raise a perpendicular calculated with THALES...
d / J1H = d / J1H1
- interesting for inaccessible areas with heavy equipment (for example, raised
of interior, of supplement
- One can make use of the extensions (Pgt) of buildings, walls, sidewalks, ...
Raised by radiation:
4) Special cases.
It can happen that during a survey some points are invisible (masked by a tree, ...).
Conclusion: control checks will need to be taken, especially between important points (façades,
points doubles,…).
1) Reconnaissance :
Choose the number and location of the stations that can be either stakes + nails (at ground level),
there are spits. Essential identification sketches.
Establish the site sketch which is the primary graphical document that must be created on the field.
as soon as the area has been recognized.
It is a scale-less, proportionate drawing, intended to provide a fairly accurate representation of the terrain. It is inscribed with
all the numbers of the stations, the points, as well as the necessary information for the implementation of the plan. It must
be clear, complete, easy to interpret.
2) Left:
For path measurements, double turn at an angle, and back and forth in distance (control
immediate on the ground.
Several methods can be used, with priority given to radiation (at each point of detail,
taking readings of horizontal angles and horizontal distances.
Note these elements in the field notebook, which is the handwritten document supplementing the sketch.
terrain. It contains all the elements measured from the bases or stations, elements that we note in the
appropriate columns:
Control discount prices. This operation should not be neglected as it often allows for recovery and
To eliminate mistakes in measurements, it also helps to reduce errors.
Deposits.
If the origin direction is parallel to the Y-axis of the rectangular coordinate system of the
projection, the directions are called 'bearing' (notation G or Gis).
The deposit is the angle between the axis of the and a straight line.
2) Transmission of deposit.
During radiation:
The Vo.
LeVOouGO is the 'zero deposit' of the device's edge.
VO = Gis S1S2Lect S2
Note: To simplify calculations, during a survey, starting from known stations in (X,Y), "display" a
lecture :
equal to the deposit. We will then obtain, on the details, a reading corresponding to their
deposit.
A(X,Y) B(X,Y)
GAB
DHAB
Formulas:
XB = XA + ( AB sin G )
(∆X)
YB = YA + ( AB cos G )
(∆Y)
Example: an operator has carried out the surveying of an area of land. According to these documents, you are asked to
calculate the Lambert coordinates of the different points.
Calculation of deposits
A(X,Y) DHAB
B(X,Y) GAB
Formulas:
G’
( DHAB(x)² = ∆X² + ∆Y²
tg G '= ∆X
∆Y
with∆X = XB - XA
∆Y = YB - YA
Example: during a project for an overpass, the positions of the piles and the station are indicated by
their rectangular coordinates. You are asked to calculate the implementation elements (azimuths,
distances) from the station.
After the field operations and calculations, the final phase is the graphical report. The drawing is done
in principle on paper (the minute), then we make a tracing (preferably polyester) in order to make some
prints.
Semi points.
For a manual report, the lifting methods determine the reporting methods.
Lever by intersections:
The base being "stuck" on the support, we determine the location of the points by the arcs of circles.
Practice for the as-built plans where there is already a background plan.
Once the station is "peeled" on the support, transfer it to the directions, report the distances to scale.
the directions.
2) Interpretation.
Perform graphical checks based on either distances calculated between known points in (X, Y), or
with the measurements taken on site (facade lengths...).
Each detail having been reported, connect the points together using the field sketch.
the representation of certain characteristic details of the terrain (calvary, power lines...), we use some
conventional signs (see points report annex).
3) Dressing.
Every plan includes certain standards regarding presentation:
It is the operation that will consist, based on a dimensioned plan and implantation elements, in determining on the
ground the correct position of points, alignments, buildings, structures...
In any case, we will have to use bases that can be a station, an alignment, a canvas.
the stations...
to the eye: we will avoid placing ourselves too close to a marker, as it may obstruct a field of vision.
important. (precision +/- 5 cm).
at the optical square: it is enough to look for the right superposition of the images of the markers in the
mirrors, advancing or retreating perpendicular to the alignment. (accuracy +/- 3 cm).
At the theodolite: one will station one end of the alignment, and aim at the other by locking.
good the Hz movement and we will align the intermediate points with the V movement of the instrument.
(accuracy < 1 cm).
In the 'L.A.S.E.R.' section: it is actually a light beam whose impact is visible or audible.
which allows for a clear representation of an alignment, a horizontal, vertical, or oblique plane, or
another given slope (accuracy < 5 mm).
with the optical square: in this case, starting from the determined point on the alignment, the aim is to obtain the
superposition of the 3 images in the 2 mirrors and the skylight.
at the theodolite: we will take reference from the origin point of the alignment, we will check the reading.
(+ 200 gr) at the other endpoint by tilting the scope, then we will 'open' an angle of
Lorigin+ 100 g.
3) Drawing a parallel.
at the optical square: lower point P on the alignment in H and measure d, then raise a
perpendicular in H and reported.
with obstacle: create a new alignment AC, then, on AC lower the perpendiculars from
points of the alignment AB, finally reconstruct this figure ABC symmetrically.
tangent method: with a tape measure and an optical square. A round elevation is measured on
the alignment, we construct the perpendicular to the alignment at P, we calculate the distance and then it
Report on the perpendicular and we obtain M.
at the theodolite: reference taken on the alignment, then display of the reading corresponding to
the requested angle α (attention 400 - if toα the left of the alignment).
5) Implantation of points.
by abscissas and ordinates: each point to be implanted is known in relation to a base under and
coordinate form.
by distances: in relation to two known stations, 2 heights are sufficient to locate a point. The
ribbon is enough for this method.
on the ribbon: this is the case for small curvature radii (sidewalks, green spaces....). It is enough to
find the center of the circle that is located at the intersection of the two perpendiculars to the points of
tangency or at the intersection of the two parallel alignments.
with the connecting square: this process comes from a mathematical rule stating that
At every point of the curve, the points T and T' are seen from the same angle. We position ourselves at T and incline.
the mirrors are positioned to see AetT'. This angle is maintained throughout the operation.
Connecting elbow
Hypothesis:
Reasoning:
Then, resolution of right triangles to obtain the angle and the distance from P.
X = R . sinα
Y = R . ( cosβ - sinα)
with β =100− θ
2
Conclusion: regardless of the method used, we will always end up with control scores. We will be able to
to control either:
The determination of the altitudes of detail points can be done in two ways:
either with a level (direct leveling)
- whether with a theodolite, we are then talking about indirect leveling.
This type of leveling is done with a theodolite, an instrument that has inside its telescope, in
more than the 2 lines of the reticle, other lines called 'stadiametric lines' allowing readings on a target.
1) Principle.
To know the altitude of the targeted point, it will be necessary:
to measure the height between the axis of the dowels and the ground station (ht).
to record the readings corresponding to the wires (l1, L, l2).
- to note the vertical angle of the sighting (z).
Control:
L= l1+l2
2
Examples:
ht = 1,635 ht = 1,635
l1 = 3,657 l1 = 1.876
L = 3,454 ∆h = L = 1.635 ∆h =
l2 = 3,251 Alt M = l2 = 1.394 Alt M =
z = 85,892 gr z = 126.357 g
Alt S = 230,050 Alt S = 230,050
2) Special case.
Measurement of the height of a building whose highest point is inaccessible.
Stations
Calculations: - either solve the right triangles IHA and IHB by determining α and β knowing that the vertical angle
of a horizontal = 100.00 gr.
An altimetric framework has been established in French territory, which constitutes the N.G.F. (General Leveling)
from France). There are about 400,000 reference points; all these points having been measured in altitude with respect to
a common origin (determined by the tide gauge of Marseille). It is from these points that a
Attachment is possible, and it allows obtaining the altitude of any detail point.
Levelling is therefore the set of operations that allows for determining the differences in height and the
altitudes.
The equipment.
A level is used for this work, placed on its tripod, which can provide through its telescope a
horizontal aiming after a quick and simple manipulation:
Level 'manual': leveling the bubble of a spherical level and then leveling the bubble of the level.
torique.
Automatic level: only adjusting the bubble of a spherical level.
The leveling staff is generally made of wood or aluminum and is 4 m long, foldable or telescopic.
The numbers written are in meters and decimeters, we need to count the centimeters and estimate the
millimeters.
On the ground: a quick check of the reading of the leveling wire (L) can be performed.
I1 =
lectures L = contrôle =
l2 =
Spherical level
(verticality of the target)
The elevation difference is calculated by convention using the formula: dn = LAR - LAV
If the altitude of Rest is known, we will obtain that of Mpar: Alt M = Alt R + dn
!!!If the level turns out to be misaligned (sights not horizontal), it is imperative to respect equality of
Carried. The error produced in the readings on the target will cancel out.
3) Methods.
a- The simplest one is that of radiation.
- calculation of the sighting plane altitude (blue level): Alt PV = Alt R + Read R
Exemple :
Example:
4) Compensation.
Whether in a closed pathway or in a guided pathway, a closure control is
indispensable. It consists of comparing the measured total to the actual total (given value, aIt NGF...).
5) Special case.
Height point:
(looked in reverse)
dn = Lar - Lav
Place a dot at a
given quote :
-Alt PV=
-Alt PV=
-appoint (app) =
The altimetric staking can be ensured with an instrument (level, laser), however, if the precision
if strictness is not required, the use of leveling instruments is common (adjustment of the form layer in the
road works for example).
The leveling instruments are basic tools used to draw slope lines between two
Given points. They include a target and two levelers, painted in red and white.
To place point C on the slope line of points A and B, we adjust stake C to the desired height.
so that the visual ray passes over the upper part of the 2 spirit levels and along the median line of the target. When
It is at the right height, the operator sees only red parts, the white of the lower part of the...
The mire being obscured, it is then said that points A, B, and C are located "at full milestone."
A contour line is the imaginary line connecting all consecutive points of the same altitude on a
horizontal plan.
Principle:
Topography - DUT Civil Engineering - Belfort 46/49
Note:
We observe that the steeper the slope, the tighter the curves, and vice versa.
The choice of equidistance depends on the scale of the plan (10 m, 20 m...).
The slope of the land is the ratio between the equidistance and the spacing.
Eq
Ρ= What= dn
is this
Interpolating curves (dashed lines) are sometimes represented to highlight any abnormal local anomaly.
or to better show the details of a nipple or a bowl.
Sometimes, certain curves are represented with a thicker line; these are the master curves (all the
10, 20, 30 m,...).
Intercalary curve
4) Construction of curves.
The first thing to determine is the direction of the steepest slope of the land for an interpolation.
Correct points belonging to the curves. Interpolating means searching between 2 points of any altitude.
the point or points that have a round altitude. All methods involve the principle of proportions of a
one way or another.
One of the simple methods is to use the THALES theorem in a triangle that we create.
(the slope must be constant between 2 chosen points).
Sometimes we may need to determine the altitude of a point located between 2 contour lines.
THALES
d∆h=
d + d' Eq
∆h= d ×Eq
d + d'
Alt A = 100 + ∆h