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Articles, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Factors to Evaluate Before Conducting a Topographic Survey

Posted on 3 de June de 20243 de June de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

Conducting a topographic survey requires flexibility and adaptation. In addition to having experience, the surveying team must undertake proper planning, select the right technology, and schedule a work scheme according to the objectives of each project.

Below, we will explore the factors that influence the execution of a topographic survey. Always remember that these guidelines are relative, and while we attempt to generalize them for study purposes, nature almost always has more than one capricious characteristic that will require the ingenuity and initiative of the survey teams in charge.

Vegetation Factor

The density of vegetation is a crucial factor in conducting a topographic survey. In densely vegetated areas such as forests or jungles, carrying out a topographic survey becomes an arduous task.

Similarly, ground cover such as grass or weeds affects data accuracy. Trees, both coniferous and deciduous, can complicate the use of aerial sensors since the density of the cover and the resolution of the required product will determine the technology to be used. Acero Estudio suggests the use of LIDAR for greater accuracy in results.

Construction Factor

Houses, buildings, bridges, overpasses, and other man-made structures affect a topographic survey because they obscure natural terrain features such as slopes and water runoff areas.

Surveyors must use photogrammetric techniques in areas with constructions. It is worth noting that in areas with tall buildings and little space between them, it is more complicated due to the greater overlap of images.

Water Factor

The presence of water in the study area demands the use of specialized technology. In some cases, LIDAR is recommended; however, this technology has certain limitations beyond a certain depth. Additionally, in some places, the coastline changes throughout the day, hindering the work.

Besides the factors imposed by nature, there are other intrinsic factors of the surveying discipline that can present challenges.

Technology Precision Limitations

Not all instruments are suitable for all areas or conditions. For example, drone surveying can be inaccurate in densely vegetated areas where LIDAR technology is more recommended.

Instrument Position Accuracy

This factor is influenced by the experience of the surveying team, who must handle the instruments proficiently. These “flight hours” will impact the quality and accuracy of the survey, as well as the speed of completion.

Why Acero Estudio is Your Best Choice for Surveying Services

We are experts in conducting topographic surveys on any type of terrain and extension because we have a team of engineers specializing in topography, equipped with total stations, advanced sensor drones, and LIDAR technology, among others. This allows us to work in any type of geography, regardless of difficulty.

Visit our website for more information and request our surveying services, available in Peru and Spain. We are here to help you carry out your projects with the highest precision and efficiency!

Articles, Servicios de Topografía, Topographic Surveys

Guidelines for carrying out a high-precision topographic survey

Posted on 31 de May de 202431 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

The process of carrying out a topographic survey requires precision and a series of well-defined steps that guarantee the accuracy of the data. To start the topographic study, it is essential to use base stations with control marks. Control points act as fixed references from which all other points on the terrain will be measured; However, sometimes the control points may not be enough to cover the entire study area. When new points are needed, they can be generated using GNSS vectors. This method employs geodetic receivers in a relative static mode, using existing grid points to establish new points with the same precision.

To obtain accurate heights above mean sea level, it is necessary to make corrections to the geodetic heights (measured from the spheroid). This involves the use of altimetry control points, which help adjust measurements and ensure they reflect true heights relative to sea level. It is also desirable to calculate photogrammetric control points and navigation signals. These points must be calculated from at least two control points to ensure accuracy. Drone photogrammetry, which uses aerial photography to measure distances and terrain features, relies on these control points to align and scale images correctly.

To speed up the survey process, quick methods such as “stop and go” or “RTK” (real-time kinematic) can be used. These methods allow data to be collected efficiently and quickly, as long as they meet the precision requirements specified in the reference table. The “stop and go” method involves stopping briefly at each measurement point, while RTK allows real-time data to be obtained with high precision.

During the course of the survey, the need may arise to generate additional control points. These new points must be derived from two previously determined control points to maintain the consistency and accuracy of the survey. Accurate surveying requires meticulous planning and the use of reliable methods to establish and verify control points. The combination of advanced technologies, such as GNSS and RTK, along with traditional techniques, ensures that the survey is accurate and efficient. By following these steps and guaranteeing the correct density and distribution of control points, you can obtain a detailed and accurate map of the terrain, essential for any engineering or construction project.

Consult with our specialists in topographical services, at Acero Estudio, we are at your service.

Articles, BIM Consulting

BIM and the MacLeamy Effort Curve, Optimizing the Construction Process

Posted on 30 de May de 202430 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

The construction industry has benefited greatly from the BIM methodology because it has changed the processes and also the way they are designed and built. One of the substantive changes is in the redefinition that BIM proposes regarding the stress curve throughout the construction process: the well-known MacLeamy Curve.

The MacLeamy Curve

The MacLeamy Curve illustrates the relationship between the effort invested in the design and construction phases of a project and the impact it has on its quality and cost. Traditionally, most of the effort was applied during the construction phase. However, the MacLeamy Curve proposes a paradigm shift: investing more effort in the early design stages can have a significant impact on reducing costs and errors during construction.

Intersection of BIM and MacLeamy Curve

The BIM methodology aligns perfectly with the MacLeamy Curve. BIM promotes early collaboration between teams that allows potential problems to be identified and resolved before they become costly fixes during construction. Early collaboration and information sharing result in greater efficiency and accuracy, translated into the effort curve proposed by MacLeamy.

Advantages of the BIM Methodology

Cost Reduction: Detecting conflicts and errors in the design phase avoids unforeseen expenses during construction.
Improves Quality: The precision and information that BIM provides leads to higher quality construction.
Time Optimization: Construction time is reduced thanks to the detailed planning required by BIM.
Sustainability: BIM software packages allow you to analyze the energy efficiency and sustainability of any project.

The use of the BIM methodology is essential to understand how early planning and effort can lead to more successful and efficient project execution. The development of the methodology, the software packages used and the complements that help generate projections are enhancers that improve the results of increasingly advanced models.

Despite these benefits, this methodology requires experience and trained professionals with a good command of the trade. Acero Estudio, a company specialized in services for the architecture and construction sector, has a team of expert BIM consultants who will help you turn your ideas into solid realities. Contact us and request information about our services, we are here to help you.

Articles, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Maximize your budget with our drone surveying service.

Posted on 29 de May de 202429 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

Surveying is an essential discipline for the development of construction projects. In recent years, the use of drones for the enhancement and improvement of topographic studies has garnered significant industry interest due to its numerous benefits. Below, we will explore some of the key advantages of conducting topographic surveys using drones.

Achieve Cost-Efficient Services

The use of drones equipped with sensors, high-definition cameras, and integrative software allows for the completion of topographic studies over large areas at a significantly lower cost compared to traditional methods. Drones’ ability to cover extensive surfaces in less time reduces labor, transportation, and logistics costs. Additionally, with improvements in battery life, this efficiency will continue to increase, further enhancing practical surveying.

Personnel Safety

One of the major risks in traditional surveying is accessing difficult-to-reach areas such as steep mountains, waterfalls, and unstable terrains. Drones mitigate these risks, and while there is always a potential risk to the equipment, human integrity is preserved, thereby reducing costs associated with workplace accidents.

Greater Accuracy in Less Time

Drones enable topographic surveys over large areas in shorter time frames. This is due to their high-definition cameras, data processing software, and the capability of synchronously transferring information to any computer. It is also worth mentioning other technologies that enhance accuracy, such as high-precision GPS and LiDAR sensors. Speed and precision translate into efficient planning and the ability to make informed decisions swiftly.

Improve the Area Surveyed per Hour Ratio

Thanks to the various software packages used by Acero Estudio, a company specializing in drone surveying, we can plan optimal flight routines to achieve greater area coverage, thereby optimizing the surveying process and increasing the amount of data collected and processed.

Enhanced Data Transfer

Technology facilitates not only data collection but also its transfer and processing. Data captured by drones can be sent and processed quickly using specialized software that allows for efficient topographic tying.

Accelerating the workflow, from data capture to the generation of maps and three-dimensional models, enables surveying professionals and their clients to obtain precise and useful results in a shorter time.

Now that you are aware of the benefits of drone surveying, do not hesitate to contact your best option for surveying services: Acero Estudio, a leading company in the surveying and construction services sector.

Articles, Topographic Surveys, Topography

Recommendations for a Topographic Survey in Mining

Posted on 28 de May de 202428 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

Topographic surveying in mining is an important process for determining mineral reserves, planning exploitation, and efficiently managing resource extraction.

In this article, we provide steps and recommendations for conducting a topographic survey in mining, based on established procedures for some of our topographic services clients.

Topographic Survey in Mining

Before we begin, it is worth noting that topographic surveying in mining involves obtaining an accurate representation of the terrain and structures on the surface of the mine. In mining companies, this process can be carried out monthly to update the progress of exploitation and estimate available mineral reserves. The main objective is to represent, through a 3D model, the shape and relief of the mine, thus facilitating mining exploitation planning and management.

The topographic surveying procedure can be applied from scheduling the areas that have been modified to generating the updated 3D model of the mine. It includes sending volumetric reports to respective clients and storing the information in the company’s system.

It is also worth noting that this topographic study should be carried out by individuals with adequate competencies and using reliable topographic equipment to ensure the accuracy of the survey.

Critical Success Factors

The team responsible for the topographic survey must be well-trained and experienced in handling topographic equipment and software. Using topographic equipment in excellent condition and with updated technology is essential for obtaining accurate data. Using standardized methodologies ensures the quality and accuracy of the results.
Having Management Indicators Having precision data indicators. Hectares per hour progress measurement indicator.
Detailed Procedure and Calculation Generation

It is important for the survey of a mining area to have a detailed process or methodology that takes into account the evolving nature of an area under exploitation. Remember that this information is used to plan the areas to be updated.

At this point, the recommended steps are:

Location of measurement tools.
Performing topographic tie-in to the coordinate system of the mining area.
Conducting the topographic survey.
Performing the polygonal survey.
Data transmission and processing by software.
Georeferencing and 3D model creation.
Calculation of areas and volumes.

In summary, topographic surveying in mining is a complex process that requires great precision to accurately project volumes. Remember that Acero Estudio provides topographic services to the mining sector; contact us and request information about our services… we are here to help.

Articles, Levantamiento Topográfico, Servicios de Topografía, Topographic Surveys

Types of Leveling in Surveying

Posted on 28 de May de 202424 de April de 2025 by admin-Gabriel

Leveling is an essential technique in topographyc surveying, as it allows for the precise determination of the relative height between specific points on a given plot of land. This practice is key in the planning and execution of engineering, construction, and cartographic projects, as it provides crucial information about the terrain’s relief. This, in turn, facilitates the design of structures that adapt to the site conditions and optimizes the calculation of necessary earthworks.

Additionally, understanding the slopes of the terrain is fundamental for the architectural development of a project. This knowledge enables the proper design of vital infrastructure, such as sanitary systems, which rely on a minimum slope to ensure the correct flow and evacuation of fluids. In areas with steep inclines, the topographic data obtained through leveling is indispensable for determining whether cut and fill operations are required or if stepped constructions will be used to take advantage of the natural topographic features.

Below, we will explore the different types of leveling used in surveying, each with its characteristics and applications:

Geometric Leveling

Also known as differential leveling, it is one of the most precise and commonly used methods in surveying. This method is based on the use of an optical or automatic level and a leveling rod to measure the difference in height between two points. It is carried out by establishing a horizontal line of sight and reading the elevations at different points.

It is commonly used for:

Civil engineering and construction projects
Road and railway construction
Installation of public utilities

Trigonometric Leveling

This method is based on the use of angles and distances measured with a theodolite. It involves measuring vertical and horizontal angles along with the distance between points of interest to calculate the height difference using trigonometric formulas. This method is especially useful in rugged terrains where geometric leveling can be difficult to implement.

This method is suitable for:

Mapping mountainous terrains
Geological and mining studies
Installation of telecommunications towers and power lines

Barometric Leveling

This method uses atmospheric pressure to determine the elevation of different points. It employs barometers or altimeters to measure air pressure at various locations and then calculates the height difference based on pressure variations. Although less precise than other methods, it is useful for preliminary surveys and in extensive areas where other methods would be impractical. It is commonly used in:

Geographic explorations
Environmental studies
Topographic surveys in remote areas

GPS Leveling

This method uses satellites to determine the elevation of specific points relative to sea level. It employs GPS receivers to capture signals from multiple satellites and calculate the height using complex algorithms. GPS leveling is increasingly popular due to its high precision and ability to cover large areas quickly.

It is optimal for:

Digital mapping
Topographic surveys in large infrastructure projects
Monitoring and managing natural resources

Hydrostatic Leveling

This method uses the principle of communicating vessels to determine height differences. It involves using a tube filled with liquid (usually water) that connects two points. The height of the liquid at both ends of the tube is measured to calculate the height difference between the points. It is a simple and effective technique for short distances and in areas where other methods are impractical. It is especially useful for indoor installations, leveling buildings and structures, and adjusting machinery and equipment, where the simplicity and economy of the method are significant advantages.

In conclusion, the choice of leveling method in surveying depends on several factors, including the required precision, terrain characteristics, the extent of the area to be covered, and available resources. Each method has its own advantages and applications, so it is essential to consult with specialists to determine the most appropriate method for each case.

Contact Acero Estudio and request more information about our topographyc surveying services; we are here to help you realize your projects.

Articles, Topographic Surveys

Geodetic Control in Coastal Surveys

Posted on 20 de May de 202420 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

Geodetic control in coastal surveys is an essential practice that ensures the accuracy and consistency of geographic and cartographic data. The densification of the control network and the verification of reference systems are fundamental processes to obtain reliable and precise information, which is crucial for safe navigation, project planning, and environmental studies in coastal areas.

Densification of the Geodetic Control Network

The densification of the geodetic control network is essential to provide a precise reference framework that allows for the exact positioning of points of interest in coastal surveys. This process includes adding more control points to an existing network, thereby improving the resolution and accuracy of the survey.

Horizontal Control

Horizontal control refers to the positioning of points in a two-dimensional plane, typically using geographic or UTM (Universal Transverse Mercator) coordinates. Various methods are used to densify this network:

Traditional Methods: These include the use of total stations and theodolites to measure angles and distances between points. These instruments require a direct line of sight between points, which can be challenging in irregular coastal terrain.
GNSS: GNSS systems, such as GPS, allow for highly accurate positioning of points. This method is especially useful in coastal areas where direct lines of sight are difficult to obtain. GNSS receivers placed at various control points provide data that can be processed to obtain precise coordinates.

Vertical Control

Vertical control focuses on the elevation of points relative to a reference datum, such as mean sea level. This control is crucial for studies requiring information on the elevations and depressions of the coastal terrain.

Geometric Leveling: This technique involves using optical levels and rods to measure height differences between points. It is a very precise method but labor-intensive.
GNSS Altimetry: Similar to horizontal control, GNSS systems are used to determine heights relative to a reference ellipsoid. However, corrections must be applied to obtain precise elevations relative to sea level.

Verification of Reference Systems

The consistency and accuracy of coastal surveys depend on the proper verification and use of reference systems. This includes ensuring that all control points and collected data refer to the same geodetic reference system.

Consistent Reference System: It is fundamental that the reference system used for topographic survey coordinates, geodetic control, and navigation aids is the same. This avoids discrepancies in the information and ensures that the data are interoperable.
Data Verification and Adjustment: Verification includes a thorough analysis of records and, when necessary, field review. Comparing the coordinates of physically obtained control points with provided coordinates helps identify and correct potential errors.
Accuracy and Corrections: To meet standards such as those in the IHO’s (International Hydrographic Organization) publication S-44, it is crucial to ensure that the corrections between ellipsoid heights and sea level are accurate. This includes applying geoid models and correcting potential systematic errors in GNSS measurements.

Importance of Geodetic Control in Coastal Surveys

Geodetic control in coastal surveys not only provides an accurate basis for cartography and navigation but also is essential for various practical applications:

Navigation Safety: It helps mariners avoid coastal hazards by correctly locating details such as lighthouses and buoys.
Environmental Studies: It provides precise data for analyzing changes in the coastline, erosion, and other natural phenomena.
Planning and Construction: It is crucial for coastal infrastructure projects, such as port construction and coastal defenses.

Contact Acero Estudio if you need more information about our topography services.

Articles

Brief History of the development of the BIM methodology

Posted on 15 de May de 202415 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

The history of Building Information Modeling (BIM) goes back to the antecedents of construction methodologies and the evolution of architectural plans. Over time, since the beginning of construction, efforts have been made to improve efficiency and precision in design and construction.

The development of CAD (Computer Aided Design) in the 1960s was an important milestone, allowing the creation of 2D and 3D technical drawings. However, it was in the 1990s that the concept of BIM began to take shape, with the introduction of specific software that integrated geometric and information data into a three-dimensional model.

The first significant advances in the adoption of BIM occurred in countries such as the United States and the United Kingdom in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Landmark projects such as Terminal 5 at Heathrow Airport in London were pioneers in the implementation of this methodology. .

Levels of Development (LODs) in BIM

LOD 100: Conceptual representation, such as a simple schematic model.
LOD 200: Basic geometric representation, with greater detail than LOD 100.
LOD 300: Accurate geometric representation, including exact dimensions and locations of elements.
LOD 400: Model with construction details, such as connections and components.
LOD 500: Model with operation and maintenance information.

BIM Adoption Factors

The rapid adoption of BIM is due to market demand for more efficient, sustainable and collaborative projects, as well as technological advances that have made this methodology more accessible and easier to implement.

It is important to indicate that companies or projects that want to implement BIM must have BIM consulting and BIM modeling advisors to take full advantage of the benefits of this methodology. These professionals help optimize design, construction and project management processes, reducing costs and execution times, and improving the quality and accuracy of information.

Do not hesitate to request a quote for the services of Acero Estudio, a consulting company specialized in BIM services, to take your project to the next level of efficiency and quality!

Articles, Estudios Topográficos

How a topographic survey can enhance the development of hydraulic works

Posted on 13 de May de 202413 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

Within infrastructure projects, a topographic survey is a fundamental study in the development and planning of hydraulic works, as it provides detailed and precise information about the terrain, allowing for efficient planning and execution of any water-related project.

Whether it’s the construction of dams or the installation of drainage systems, a topographic survey is essential at every stage of the process. In this article, we will explore the advantages of conducting a topographic survey in hydraulic works.

Enables Precise Planning

One of the significant benefits of topography in hydraulic works is the ability to carry out precise planning. The data collected during the survey provides detailed information about the area’s topography, terrain elevation, and the location of important features such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs. This information helps us design and locate structures such as dams, channels, and drainage systems accurately.

Facilitates Optimization

With accurate data on the terrain’s topography, engineers can optimize the design of hydraulic works to ensure their effectiveness and durability. Thanks to Acero Estudio’s topography services, we can identify possible challenges or limitations of the terrain, such as steep slopes, erosion-prone areas, among other important details that can make a difference in risk mitigation.

Water Management

With global warming, water is becoming an increasingly important resource, so managing this liquid element is vital, and the discipline of topography assists us in this task by allowing proper management through information that enables us to use it with minimal environmental impact.

Reduction of Flood Risk

Understanding the geography and, above all, the topography of a terrain will help us develop constructive strategies that avoid flood-prone areas or, if the terrain is inherently flood-prone, help us identify potential watercourses to avoid them or create resilient structures for them.

Contact Acero Estudio and invest in our topography services; your project will thank you.

Articles, BIM Consulting

What level of development is suitable for construction projects?

Posted on 11 de May de 2024 by admin-Gabriel

The optimal Level of Development (LOD) for construction projects varies depending on the specific needs of each project and the stage it is in. In the Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodology, LOD refers to the level of detail and development of a digital model.

LOD provides a standardized structure that guides the creation and management of BIM models, allowing for a clear understanding of the information contained in the model at each stage of the project. By implementing LOD, we ensure the consistency and accuracy of the data, facilitating collaboration among different project stakeholders and improving decision-making efficiency.

Different Levels and Their Uses:

Generally, the different levels of LOD are used as follows:

LOD 100: Used in the early stages of the project, providing a conceptual representation of the design without specific details. It is useful for initial planning and project visualization.
LOD 200: Focuses on the general geometry of the project, including basic dimensions and spatial relationships. It is suitable for the schematic design phase, where the main project ideas are explored and refined.
LOD 300: Provides an accurate representation of individual project elements, with specific details such as exact sizes and shapes. It is useful during the detailed design phase and coordination among disciplines.
LOD 400: Includes detailed information about the manufacturing and assembly of project components, allowing for the generation of construction drawings and virtual construction simulation.
LOD 500: Represents the as-built information of the project, including precise installation and manufacturing details. It is useful for building management and maintenance once completed.

For residential construction projects, the most suitable BIM LOD is typically LOD 300 or higher, as a high level of detail is required for home design and construction.

In industrial construction projects, such as factories or production plants, LOD 400 is commonly used due to the need for detailed information about industrial systems and equipment.

For infrastructure construction projects, such as roads or bridges, LOD 300 may be sufficient in the design stages, but LOD 400 may be necessary for precise planning and construction of structural elements.

In commercial construction projects, which may include office buildings, shopping centers, or hotels, LOD 400 is widely used to ensure accuracy in planning and execution.

We invite you to visit Acero Estudio and inquire about our BIM consulting services, where we offer your company access to our BIM consultants specialized in BIM with extensive experience. Additionally, if you have further questions, you can inquire about our BIM Modeling service, which allows you to completely outsource the generation of your BIM models.