Effective Methods for Shifting a Total Station Instrument During a Survey

Shifting a total station instrument during a survey can be necessary for various reasons, such as avoiding obstacles or improving visibility. Proper techniques are crucial to maintain the accuracy and reliability of your measurements. This article outlines several methods to effectively shift a total station instrument.

1. Re-Setting Up the Instrument

Move to a New Location: Physically pick up the total station and relocate it to a new point. Level the Instrument: After moving, ensure the instrument is level using the leveling screws and the built-in bubble level.

This method ensures your total station remains stable and aligned, providing accurate measurements from the new location.

2. Using a Known Point

If there is a previously established control point, this method can be used.

Backsight to a Known Point: When relocating, aim at a previously established control point to re-establish your reference. Measure Distance: Measure the horizontal and vertical distances from the new location to the control point.

This approach helps in maintaining a consistent reference point, ensuring that measurements remain accurate.

3. Using a Temporary Benchmark

Establishing a temporary benchmark at the new location can be useful if you need to move frequently.

Establish a Temporary Point: Create a temporary point at the new location. Record Coordinates: Note the coordinates of both the old and new positions for reference.

Recording these coordinates helps in mapping the shift accurately and updating your survey data accordingly.

4. Coordinate Shifting

If your total station supports it, you can directly input the new coordinates into the instrument.

Input New Coordinates: Directly input the new coordinates into the instrument's device. Adjust Measurements: Make necessary adjustments to your measurements based on the shift.

This method ensures that all your existing measurements are automatically adjusted without the need for manual recalculation.

5. Using a Surveying Stake

Place a Surveying Stake: If the total station is moved, place a stake at the old position to maintain reference. Sight Back to the Stake: After moving, sight back to the stake to ensure alignment.

Staking out the old position creates a visual reference that helps in maintaining the accuracy of your survey.

6. Triangulation

When there are multiple known points, using triangulation can help determine the new position accurately.

Use Triangulation Methods: Utilize triangulation techniques to determine the new position. Confirm Angles and Distances: Measure angles and distances from the new location to ensure accuracy.

Triangulation is particularly useful in complex survey scenarios, ensuring precise measurement and positioning.

7. Documenting the Shift

Accurate documentation of the instruments' movements is essential.

Log All Changes: Keep a detailed log of the instruments' movements, including coordinates and any reference points used. Update Survey Data: Ensure all survey data reflects the new instrument position.

Documenting these changes helps in maintaining detailed records that can be referenced during future surveys.

Best Practices:

Check Calibration: After moving the instrument, check its calibration to ensure accuracy. Minimize Movement: Whenever possible, minimize the number of times you need to shift the total station to reduce potential errors.

By following these methods and best practices, you can effectively shift a total station during a survey while maintaining the accuracy and reliability of your measurements.