Field works for Traversing:

1. Reconnaissance
2. Selection and marking the stations
3. Measurement of the traverse legs
4. Measurement of traverse angles
5. Correction of measured angles.
6. Measurement of magnetic bearing
7. Field notes and detailing
8. Plotting
Reconnaissance:

At first, the inspection of the area to be surveyed is done so as to get the idea about the best way to
conduct the survey.

Note: A traverse is a series of straight lines called traverse legs. The surveyor uses them to connect a
series of selected points called traverse stations. (Control line = Traverse legs, Control stations =
Traverse stations)

Selection and marking the stations:

While selecting the control stations, it should be remembered that control lines should pass through
fairly level ground and at least two control stations should be visible from each control station. There
should be no magnetic substances near the control line. Control stations should cover the whole area to
be surveyed.

After selecting the suitable stations, they should be marked on the ground with the help of pegs or nails.
Reference sketches of each stations should be made so that stations can be located even if the pegs or
nails are missing in the future.

Measurement of traverse legs:

Distance between stations is measured with the help of tape or chain. Chain should not be used in
unlevelled areas. Forward and backward lengths are measured and their average is taken. The accuracy
should be greater than or equal to 1:1000.

Measurement of traverse angles:

Interior angles of the traverse are measured directly by using a theodolite. For each set of observations
mean angle is calculated and checked.
Correction of measured angles:

We know,

Permissible error (Ep) = Least Count * √ N

(N= Number of stations)

Theoretical sum of angles = (2N-4) * 90֯

Now,

Error = (Measured Sum) – (Theoretical Sum)

Error must lie within the permissible range.

As error is distributed on each station. We have,

Error
Correction =
N
Then, correction is applied on each station.

If:

 Error is positive, Correction is negative

 Error is negative, Correction is positive

Note: Sum of interior angles = (2N-4) * 90֯

Sum of exterior angles = (2N+4) * 90֯

:Measurement of magnetic bearing

Setup the theodolite over a point say A. Set the Vernier at A at 0-0 horizontal angle. Loosen the lower
clamp screw. Turn the telescope to any direction (Clockwise or Anticlockwise) until needle of the
compass coincides with 0-0 mark. Now the lower clamp is fixed and upper clamp is loosen. Now, point
the telescope to point B. Now the Vernier reading gives the magnetic bearing of line AB. Magnetic
bearing of other lines are calculated by using the magnetic bearing of known line.

Field notes and detailing:

All the measurement, angles, bearing, etc. are entered in the field book to derive correct data during
computation. The detailing of various objects on the field is done by:

1. By using theodolite and tape.

2. By using plane table method.
Plotting:

At last the traverse plotting is done by following certain rules and regulations.

TRAVERSE FIELD NOTES:

This is how traverse field notes are taken.