Triangulation is a traditional surveying technique that allows us to measure distances and angles on the Earth’s surface. However, it has been gradually replaced by more modern surveying techniques that utilize GNSS technology, drone surveying, etc.

Although the use of traditional surveying has decreased, it is still necessary in some cases where satellite technology is absent or where population density requires it. Here are some key points on the importance of topographic triangulation:

Provides Accuracy in Measurement

This technique allows us to measure distances from the projected vertices of triangles and calculates the sides using trigonometric formulas. This type of measurement is ideal for large areas in construction projects, agriculture, or urban planning that require precise data.

Allows for Defining Control Points

Through triangulation, it is possible to define geodetic control points that will be useful for future measurements. These points are also highly useful as references for integration with previous work in a unified system.

Covers Large Areas

As mentioned, there are more modern techniques for developing large areas than triangulation (check our surveying services); however, in cases where technology is lacking, triangulation is particularly useful for studying large tracts of land.

Serves as a Basis for Navigation Systems

The technique of triangulation has been fundamental in the development of both terrestrial and maritime navigation systems. Even today, in the GPS era, triangulation continues to be used for the calibration and verification of these systems.

Applications in Geodesy and New Technologies

Geometric triangulation measurements can be integrated into geodetic systems, making them ideal for cartography and the development of scientific knowledge related to plate tectonics and geophysics.

Additionally, remember that triangulation adapts well to integration with new technologies such as GPS, drones, and geographic information systems, further improving the precision and efficiency of topographic surveys.

Learn more about these types of services on our website, Acero Estudio, and remember that we are specialists in surveying and consulting services for the architecture and construction sector.

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!

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.

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

1. 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.
2. Having Management Indicators Having precision data indicators. Hectares per hour progress measurement indicator.
3. 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.