Introduction to Surveying Concepts

Study Notes

Surveying is the art and science of determining the angular and linear measurements to establish the form, extent, and relative position of points, lines, and areas.
This involves using specialized equipment and techniques, and applying mathematics.

Plane Surveying assumes the earth is flat, suitable for limited areas where the earth's curvature is negligible.
Geodetic Surveying considers the earth's spheroidal shape, used for large-scale surveys.

Cadastral Surveys determine property boundaries, corners, and areas, commonly used in urban and rural settings.
City Surveys focus on planning, property lines, reference monuments, and physical features within and near a city.
Construction Surveys provide essential data for engineers and builders, including grades, reference lines, and dimensions.
Forestry Surveys are important for forest management, mensuration, and conservation.
Hydrographic Surveys map shorelines, chart underwater areas, and measure stream flow.
Industrial Surveys, also known as optical tooling, are used for precision layouts in shipbuilding, aircraft assembly, and complex machinery installation.
Mine Surveys determine the position of underground excavations, surface mine structures, geological formations, and establish lines for mining operations.
Photogrammetric Surveys utilize photographs from airplanes or ground stations to create maps and data (Google Earth, Google Maps are examples).
Route Surveys determine alignment, grades, and features for planning and constructing linear projects like highways, railroads, and pipelines.
Topographic Surveys map the shape of the ground and the location and elevation of natural and artificial features.

Astrolabe An early surveying instrument that used a metal circle, pointer, and cross staff.
Telescope The invention of the telescope significantly improved surveying by providing magnified images.
Transit is an instrument with a built-in spirit level mounted on a tripod, used for measuring angles.