The Total Station in Surveying: An Essential Instrument for Accurate Measurements

total station

One of the most essential and versatile tools used in surveying services is the total station. In this article, we will explore in detail what a total station is and how it is used in surveying.

A total station is an advanced surveying instrument that combines several essential functions in a single device. Unlike traditional surveying instruments such as theodolite and scope, the total station is an all-in-one tool that allows surveyors to make accurate measurements of horizontal and vertical angles, as well as distances, heights and elevations. These measurements are made with remarkable precision, making it an indispensable tool in the field of modern surveying.

Components of a Total Station

Total stations consist of several key components:

  • Theodolite: The theodolite incorporated in a total station is responsible for measuring horizontal and vertical angles with great precision. It allows surveyors to point to specific points on the ground and determine directions and elevations accurately.
  • Distancemeter: Total stations are equipped with a distancemeter that uses laser or electronic technology to measure distances between the total station and the point of interest. This allows obtaining precise coordinates.
  • Spirit Level: A spirit level built into the total station ensures that the instrument is perfectly level, which is essential for accurate angle and elevation measurements.
    Screen or viewer: The total station generally has a screen or viewer where the collected data, such as angles, distances and coordinates, are displayed. Some modern total stations even have touch screens for a friendlier user interface.

Use of the Total Station in Topography

Total stations are used in a wide variety of surveying applications, including:

  • Topographic Surveys: To measure the elevation, distance and direction of points on the Earth’s surface, allowing the creation of detailed topographic maps.
  • Construction project control: In the planning and execution of construction projects, such as buildings, roads and bridges, to ensure that structures are built according to specifications.
  • Property surveying and demarcation: To determine property boundaries and create accurate cadastral plans.
  • Monitoring of deformations and changes: In geodetic studies to measure the deformation of structures or the movement of the ground over time.
  • Geology and geophysics: In geological studies to determine the stratigraphy of the subsoil and in geophysical studies to investigate the properties of the terrain.

Advantages of Total Stations

Using a total station offers several advantages, such as:

  • Greater precision: Allows highly precise measurements of angles, distances and elevations.
  • Efficiency: Simplifies the measurement process by combining multiple functions in a single instrument.
  • Speed: Facilitates obtaining data quickly and efficiently.
  • Data Storage: Many modern total stations can store and transfer data electronically, simplifying further processing of the information.

The total station is an essential tool in the field of modern surveying. Its ability to make accurate measurements of angles, distances and elevations with efficiency and ease makes it an invaluable instrument in a variety of applications, from creating detailed topographic maps to planning and executing construction projects.

Its incorporation of cutting-edge technology has transformed the way surveying measurements are made and has significantly improved the accuracy of the results.

Benefits of Aerial Photogrammetry in Infrastructure Construction

drone aerial photogrametry

Aerial photogrammetry also known as drone photogrammetry. This technique, which uses aerial and ground images to obtain precise measurements and three-dimensional models, offers a number of key benefits for the planning and execution of public infrastructure projects.

grafico obtenido con la tecnica de fotogrametria con drones
Graphic obtained through the aerial photogrammetry technique with drones.
  1. Precision and Accuracy: One of the greatest benefits of photogrammetry in public infrastructure construction is its ability to provide precise and accurate measurements. High-resolution aerial and ground images capture minute details of the terrain and existing structures. This allows engineers and architects to work with reliable data to make critical decisions in project design and execution.
  2. Reduction in Project Costs and Time: Photogrammetry significantly speeds up the topographic survey process and data capture. Compared to traditional manual measurement techniques or total stations, photogrammetry saves considerable time and resources. This results in reduced project costs and faster completion of public works.
  3. Improved Planning and Design: Photogrammetry provides a comprehensive and detailed view of the construction environment. Engineers and designers can use three-dimensional models to analyze the terrain, identify potential challenges, and optimize the placement of infrastructure. This leads to a more efficient design and the minimization of unforeseen problems during construction.
  4. Progress Monitoring and Control: During project execution, photogrammetry can be used for progress monitoring and control. By comparing images before and after the works, it is possible to evaluate the progress and quality of the work. This facilitates timely decision-making and allows deviations to be corrected before they become costly problems.
  5. Safety and Risk Reduction: Photogrammetry also contributes to improving safety in public works. By providing detailed information about terrain and site conditions, construction teams can identify and mitigate potential risks. Additionally, accurate planning reduces the likelihood of accidents and mishaps.
  6. Complete Project Documentation: Photogrammetry creates complete project documentation that includes images, 3D models, and detailed measurements. This is invaluable for future references, maintenance and possible infrastructure expansions. It also facilitates communication with stakeholders and reporting to regulatory authorities.
  7. Improved Decision Making: By having accurate and updated data in real time, project managers and authorities can make informed and strategic decisions. This is especially important in public infrastructure projects, where the financial and social implications are significant.
  8. Minimizing Environmental Impact: The ability to accurately assess terrain and environmental conditions allows project planners to minimize environmental impact. This includes protecting sensitive areas and implementing measures to reduce the ecological footprint of the building.

This technology has proven to be a valuable tool for engineers and architects working on public infrastructure projects, contributing to the creation of more efficient, sustainable and safe infrastructure for communities around the world. Contact Acero Estudio and request more information about our aerial photogrammetry service with the use of drones.

Photogrammetry with Drones and its advantages for Urban and Rural Digital Restitution

representacion digital de terreno obtenida mediante la tecnica de la fotogrametria con drones

One of the most requested technologies from Acero Estudio is photogrammetry with drones, a set of methods, software and hardware (with drones) that is not only changing the way civil projects are executed but also speeds up and achieves greater efficiency in construction projects. digital restitution in urban and rural areas.

The representations achieved through photogrammetry enable the creation of accurate digital representations while enabling a number of key benefits for project planning and development in these diversified environments.

Creating accurate 3D models

Drone photogrammetry offered by Acero Estudio, a company specialized in photogrammetry and BIM, stands out for its ability to generate precise and detailed three-dimensional models of urban and rural areas. This is achieved by capturing multiple aerial images from different angles and altitudes, which are then processed to create a digital model of the terrain. This digital model, often known as an orthophoto or mosaic, serves to achieve a faithful digital representation of the area in question.

Practical Case

A municipality needs to update its urban plan to allow for sustainable growth. Thanks to photogrammetry, an accurate digital representation of the city can be created, including buildings, streets, vegetation and bodies of water. This digital representation will serve as a basis for future analysis and planning.

Efficient Planning

The availability of accurate digital representations is very useful for effective planning in urban and rural environments. Data generated through drone photogrammetry allows planners and designers to make informed decisions about infrastructure siting, natural resource management, and land use planning. This significantly reduces the margin of error, minimizing risks associated with any large project.

Practical Case

In a region prone to flooding, photogrammetry is used to generate various digital representations that are very useful to identify flood-prone areas, allowing corrective and protective measures to be taken in the surrounding areas.

Change Analysis

Drone photogrammetry allows for monitoring changes over time. This is especially valuable in constantly evolving urban and rural environments. Drones can perform regular inspections to capture updated images and detect significant changes to the landscape or infrastructure.

Practical case

A municipality seeks to evaluate the impact of an urban development project and for this drone photogrammetry can be used to track the evolution of the area over several years. This allows them to make data-driven decisions and adjust their planning as necessary.

Access to Remote Areas

In difficult-to-access rural areas, drone photogrammetry becomes an invaluable tool. Drones can reach remote and hard-to-reach places, allowing data capture in mountainous areas, dense forests or rugged terrain. This expands the possibilities of collecting accurate information in environments that were previously inaccessible or expensive to study.

Practical Case

In the preservation of remote natural areas, drones can be used to monitor the health of the ecosystem and detect signs of deforestation or erosion in places that are difficult to access or at risk for people.

If you want to know more about photogrammetry or other services that Acero Estudio offers, do not hesitate to write to us, we are here to support you in your construction or engineering projects in adverse environments.

Acero Estudio collaborates with the Peruvian Government in wastewater treatment

Escaneo de área de trabajo con dron para topografía en proyecto del tratamiento de aguas residuales

 

Public-private alliance in Peru: wastewater treatment for a sustainable future

In Peru, various projects have been carried out aimed at the construction of wastewater purification facilities (wastewater treatment), with the aim of improving water quality and protecting the natural environment. These projects are promoted through collaboration between the Peruvian government, non-governmental organizations and private companies. This initiative has gained momentum due to a growing awareness of the importance of preserving water resources and protecting the environment. As population and industrial activities have increased, it has become essential to implement systems that act as efficient and sustainable wastewater treatment plants.

Objective: preserve water resources by protecting the ecosystem

These projects aim to improve the quality of life of citizens, by expanding the water supply and enabling sanitation works. For this reason, the construction of wastewater treatment plants has been promoted in different regions of the country, benefiting thousands of people.

Acero Estudio has developed a significant role in the execution of topography projects in various Wastewater Treatment Plant projects in different regions of the coast, mountains and Peruvian jungle. In the jungle we can highlight projects in the cities of Tarapoto and Puerto Maldonado; in the mountains, in the provinces of Cusco, Huancayo and Cajamarca; and on the coast, in the provinces of Trujillo, Lima and Chincha.

fotogrametria Aérea del terreno en Perú
Survey with drone

Acero Estudio Latam leads surveying in wastewater treatment projects in Peru

Acero Estudio’s years of experience providing topography services has been fundamental in the execution of wastewater treatment plant projects. The georeferencing, polygonal, geometric leveling, bathymetry, photogrammetry with drones, LIDAR and detailed topographic surveys have provided precise information on the topography of the land, thus ensuring appropriate planning and execution of the works.

fotogrametría con drones del terreno en Perú

Committed to the development and well-being of Peru

Acero Estudio Latam’s commitment to contributing to the progress of the country and the well-being of the Peruvian population is evident in its active participation in projects at the national level. Our experience and technical competencies have played an essential role in increasing the efficiency and effectiveness of wastewater treatment plants, thus contributing to the protection of the environment and the availability of clean and safe water for all.

The wastewater treatment plant projects in Peru are an example of the country’s firm commitment to the preservation of water resources and the conservation of the natural environment. Acero Estudio Latam’s dedication to the development of the country and the well-being of Peruvians is reflected in its active participation in projects at the national level, ensuring their success and promoting the sustainable development of the country for the benefit of the entire Peruvian population.

Vista de profesional con el dron para la realización de la topografía del terreno

Take into account that Acero Estudio provides various services dedicated to reducing construction risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.

Warehouse refurbishment and 3D laser scanning

warehouse almacen o nave industrial

With our experience in 3D laser scanning service we provide our client with the necessary information for the ideal location of their new warehouse facilities to store online purchase/delivery products.

Our mission was to provide precise information to evaluate how they could, with their means and facilities, allow the workflow of goods – for heavy vehicle access and general loading or unloading.

We help determine if a retrofit for this warehouse location could meet your requirements and generate the graphical information necessary to visualize existing conditions and solutions.

We carry out the survey of the 2D levels with a detailed study of the exterior, using a total station with global satellite navigation systems. Followed by taking 3D laser scanner data to generate a cloud of internal and external points of the place. Lastly, we performed 3D modeling where the collected data was analyzed to generate exact geometric shapes.

As a result, our client was able to make decisions quickly and accurately, resulting in notable savings in costs and time.

Another important point valued by the client was being able to verify both compliance with security requirements and evaluate the scope of actions and work flows.

Consult about our services. Our team can help you manage your projects optimally and at a higher level with the use of cutting-edge technological tools.

Remember that at Acero Estudio, a company specialized in 3D laser scanning, it provides various services dedicated to reducing construction, engineering or architectural risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.

We work in Peru to rebuild El Niño floods and prevent new ones

estudios de topografia,

Acero Estudio works in Peru to reconstruct El Niño floods and prevent new ones

The intense rains and river overflows caused the destruction of homes, bridges and roads, generating a large number of people affected and displaced. In addition, there were human losses and basic services such as the supply of drinking water and electricity were affected. Agricultural infrastructure also suffered considerable damage, affecting food production and the local economy, especially for the northern region.

The Authority for Reconstruction with Changes (ARCC) developed the Comprehensive Plan for Reconstruction with Changes (PIRCC) to restore all physical infrastructure damaged and destroyed by the El Niño Coastal Phenomenon.

survey activities to prevent floodings in northern of peru

Acero Estudio collaborates in several reconstruction projects

From our headquarters in Peru we are developing the Topography Studies for the preparation of the project “Storm drainage of the city of Sullana”.

Additionally, within the study’s activities, we are carrying out field and office work on Geo-reference, Polygonals, Polygonal Leveling and Photogrammetry with Drones.

At Acero Estudio, a company specialized in topography services, we have a notable presence in Latin America (LATAM), as a consolidated company in the sector. With more than 25 years of experience and knowledge in the field of 3D Laser Scanning, BIM Consulting, CAD outsourcing service, Topography and Digital Twin, we have managed to establish a solid network of clients and strategic allies in various countries in the region through innovative products. and solutions,

Many thanks to our client TYPSA for the trust placed in us for the execution of the topography work.

fotogrametria y cartografia de la ciudad de sullana

Contact us and request more information about our topography, BIM consulting, LIDAR and cartography services; We are here to serve you.

Advantages of using drones in construction

use of drones in construction sector

Advantages of using drones in construction

The use of drones for construction management has been growing exponentially in recent years. They offer many advantages in terms of tracking, surveillance and location inspection with good, faster and more accurate results.

Below, we present some of the main advantages provided by the use of drones in the construction sector.

Vista de profesional con el dron para la realización de la topografía del terreno
Drones provide various benefits for construction, engineering and architecture

1. Precise mapping

Most of the time, manual data collection and map generation are labor-intensive and time-consuming tasks. Drones can speed up this process by 60-70%. They provide high resolution photos, video capture and data through a LiDAR sensor or through the drone photogrammetry technique.

The LiDAR sensor transmits a laser beam and measures its reflection. Very useful for mapping, especially in topography when there are difficulties in accessing technicians. Construction drone surveying not only simplifies mapping, but also facilitates 3D modeling and analysis.

2. Minimum risk

Drones can replace people in the process of ensuring safety when accessing certain places. By integrating the drone with the monitoring device, real-time information is obtained and problems in certain areas can be instantly identified.

Therefore, the risk of accidents involving people and heavy equipment can be reduced during inspections in areas prone to hazards and risks.

3. Monitoring productivity and responsibility in the field

Drones used in construction make it possible to monitor team productivity. They can also check whether the equipment is installed or not. Therefore, they can easily identify the issue that is causing the project to run slowly. Easy and effective management.

4. Greater effectiveness in Marketing

Photos and videos are the best options to show the project. Until the emergence of drones a few years ago, certain operations could only be carried out with a helicopter to take photos and videos.

The high cost of a helicopter flight has no comparison with the accessibility in economic terms of a drone flight. The costs related to obtaining photos and videos are not parallel to their quality, flexibility, time and safety compared to the drone. These solve the same difficulties effectively.

Thanks to this technology, marketing efforts gain more with high-quality images. You can capture gorgeous projects from different angles in a relatively short time. The company can satisfy stakeholders with progress they can see visually.

Conclusion

The application of drones for construction management provides various benefits regarding safety, costs and time. Drones increase project efficiency with rapid data collection, mapping, and analysis. Furthermore, the information obtained can provide additional advantages if it is integrated with specific computer applications for construction, as it automates management tasks with access to real-time data.

The future of drones in construction will not stop. These benefits are just a few examples. As the technology develops, drones are expected to help construction companies in a wider area.

Also remember that at Acero Estudio we provide various services dedicated to reducing construction risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.

Optimize costs using geospatial 3D scanning and drone technology: precise volumetric analysis.

Acero Estudio’s team participated with its experience in data capture using the 3D laser scanner, GPS, Total Station and drones in this unusual project to provide a quick response and collaborate in the development process of a Due Diligence, whose purpose was to assess the acquisition of an industrial plant.

Our client was immersed in the process of urgently acquiring the property and needed reliable information about its spatial features to determine the quantities and value of the collected material.

Using our experience in handling various measurement scenarios, our team provided innovative technological solutions and accurate results.

The work was done in record time. Our challenge was to provide a solution that could accurately measure the volume of the material to later estimate transportation costs to another facility.

The procedure consisted of carrying out a 3D geospatial study and applying analytical methods to terrestrial or geographic data sets. The first step was to configure the control network with the total station and the GPS receiver.

The data collected from the 3D scanner and drone was processed using logging and photogrammetry software, quickly generating a 3D spatial representation of the facilities and material reserves. Finally, the spatial data was analyzed to calculate the volume of each individual reserve and plan the logistics of its relocation.

The result of the procedure was highly efficient. The time invested was less than estimated and this brought significant gains in all aspects. Without a doubt, an example of how the combination of technologies contributes to the fulfillment of our projects and the objectives of our clients.

Remember that at Acero Estudio, a company specialized in 3D laser scanning, it provides various services dedicated to reducing construction, engineering or architectural risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.

Laser Scanner in Cultural Heritage Management

3d laser escanner servoo

Use of 3D Laser Scanner for inventory of cultural assets, an incalculable added value.

The use of a 3D laser scanner allows us to capture and store precise information about our cultural heritage, to restore and maintain in perfect condition any element that makes up its geometry.

The artists, architects and engineers of our past, present and future deserve the correct conservation of their works and their digitization makes it possible to carry out this task in an optimal, easy and thorough way. His works are an essential part of the identity of our cities and our lives, although by habit they go unnoticed.

Our new 3D laser scanner uses the latest technology, acquiring the necessary information to precisely intervene in a building listed as cultural heritage. With interior and exterior laser scanning, a point cloud is generated from which measurements and an exact three-dimensional model can be obtained.

When it comes to generating information about buildings, Acero Estudio guarantees its clients precision, detail and compliance, with years of multidisciplinary experience.

Our team adheres to national and international standards with a range of cutting-edge services that adopt the latest technology in 3D laser scanning, modeling, virtual reality and aerial mapping.

Remember that at Acero Estudio, a company specialized in 3D laser scanning, it provides various services dedicated to reducing construction, engineering or architectural risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.

Agriculture from the air

drones used in farming

We have had the opportunity to participate in the Conference “Agriculture from the air: multidisciplinary data and drone spraying” at Barrax Rural Innovation HUB held on June 8 and organized by Acre.

An event that seeks to promote innovation in all its forms, digital transformation and rural agricultural development through the transmission of scientific and empirical information, as well as with field demonstrations of the potential of new market technologies.

The topics discussed generated interesting discussions regarding the opportunities and, sometimes, limitations that current legislation can pose when drones are used to spray agricultural fields. It is inevitable that the technology moves faster than the laws for its application, but it is There is no doubt that the greater the demand, these processes are more agile.

However, there is great potential and fewer drawbacks in collecting and processing accurate aerial data for soil and drainage analysis of crops, through which the health status can be monitored and their yield predicted.

Remember that Acero Estudio, a company specialized in solutions to improve your crops, risk areas and other advantages for agriculture, provides various services dedicated to reducing construction, engineering or architectural risks such as:

Contact us and request a quote for our services, we are here to assist you.