48320 Surveying

The objectives of this subject are to enable students to: become competent in the theory and practice of basic surveying skills; use basic surveying equipment such as levels and theodolites, and perform the calculations and reductions of observations associated with such equipment; be aware of the likely errors that may occur during observations, and of methods to eliminate or minimise such errors; be competent in making distance measurements accurately over short distances using tapes and wires and be aware of the advantages of modern developments in this field such as Electronic Distance-measuring Equipment; perform a simple traverse and associated calculations to find the misclose and proportional accuracy, and the bearing and distance of one missing line; understand and be able to perform relevant calculations for the engineering applications of surveying (horizontal curves, vertical curves, and areas and volumes); and be aware of field techniques used to enable preparation of a detail and contour plan. The stadia method is discussed in class and is used as a data-gathering tool in a practical exercise. The applications of modern computer programs to reduce data for and the plotting of detail and contour plans are introduced. Services of professional surveyors are explained, as are engineering situations where surveyors must be engaged.

Topics include: use of equipment such as levels, theodolites and tapes and wires; calculations related to this equipment, as well as traversing, horizontal curve setting out, design of vertical curves, areas and volumes and stadia and contouring; modern developments in surveying; and the role of the professional surveyor.

Assessment: Typically assessment for this subject will involve practical reports, class quizzes, a final written examination and a practical examination.

Typical availability

Autumn semester, City campus
Spring semester, City campus