THE POLYTECHNIC IBADAN

IBADAN NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA,

OYO STATE.
FACULTY OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
PROJECT REPORT
ON
PRODUCING A ROUTE SURVEY PLAN CONTAINING THE
CURVES, VERTICAL AND HORIZONTAL LEVEL, WITH
CALCULATION (from South to Sewage Gate)
BY
HUNDOGAN BENJAMIN NUTAYI
20200703060019
A PROJECT REPORT SUBMITTED IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT
OF THE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE AWARD OF NATIONAL
DIPLOMA(ND) DEGREE IN SURVEYING AND GEO-
INFORMATICS FACULTY OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES,
POLYTECHNIC OF IBADAN.

SUPERVISED BY
SURVEYOR OGUNJOBI & MR ADEEKO ISAAC

JUNE 2023
 CERTIFICATION
We certify that this report has been conducted by all the listed members of the group under the
supervision of Surveyor Ogunjobi & MR Adeeko, Faculty of Environmental Studies The
polytechnic, Ibadan.

SURVEYOR OGUNJOBI DATE: 9/8/2023

SUPERVISOR 1 Signature

MR ADEEKO ISAAC DATE: 9/8/2023

SUPERVISOR 2 Signature

HUNDOGAN BENJAMIN NUTAYI DATE: 9/8/2023

STUDENT Signature
 DEDICATION
This Practical Report is dedicated to Almighty God, Our Lovely Parents and Guardians.
 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
First of all, we thank Almighty God who has given us ability to sail through the undulating
pathways. May his peace and blessings be upon on us and our families. Our ample thanks and
inevitable appreciation with great honour to goes to our parents, for their unending supports and
prayers, care and non-fading love from cradle to adulthood. Our profound gratitude and
appreciation goes to our erudite lecturer and supervisor, Surveyor Ogunjobi & Mr Isaac. We will
not forget our friends and colleagues, indeed you have inspired something into our work and life.
 ABSTRACT
The project was focused on the execution of route surveying for the purpose of producing a route
survey plan containing the curves, vertical & horizontal levels, Stations were selected along the
existing route at regular intervals as in the specifications Theodolite traverse was run over stations,
while levels were observed along the longitudinal and cross-sections of the traverse lines. All data
were gathered with effective orientation from the controls, these were used to produce the plans
(with appropriate scale) showing horizontal alignment, profile and cross-sections.
The project explains the experience in practice, the students had during the course of study in the
institution.
And it explains the stage involve in carrying out the project. The project contains five chapters;
chapter one contains the background of the study, the statement of the problem, purposes of study
e.t.c. Chapter two contain literature review and chapter contains the research methodology, while
chapter four is on data presentation.
Finally, chapter five is basically on conclusion, recommendation and references.
 TABLES OF CONTENTS
TITLE PAGE ……………………………………………………………………………………i
CERTIFICATION ………………………………………………………………………………ii
DEDICATION …………………………………………………………………………………. iii
ACKNOWLEGEMENT ………………………………………………………………………... iv
ABSTRACT ……………………………………………………………………………………... v
CHAPTER ONE 1
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY
1.2 STATEMENT OF PROBLEMS
1.3 AIM AND OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
1.4 SCOPE OF THE PROJECT
1.5 PERSONNEL
1.6 STUDY AREA
CHAPTER TWO
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 REVIEW OF PREVIOUS ROUTE SURVEY PROJECT
2.2 PURPOSES OF ROUTE SURVEY
2.3 HIGHWAY ROUTE SURVEYING
CHAPTER THREE
3.0. METHODOLOGY
3.1 RECONNAISSANCE
3.2 EQUIPMENT USED
3.3. INSTRUMENT TEST
3.4 CONTROL CHECK
3.5 FIELD OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURES
3.6 THEODOLITE TRAVERSING
3.7 DETAILING
3.8 LEVELLING OPERATION
3.9 PLOTTING
CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 DATA PROCESSING, COMPUTATION AND PRESENTATION OF RESULT
4.1 DATA PROCESSING
4.2 DATA COMPUTATION
CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED AND
RECOMMENDATION
5.1 SUMMARY
5.2 CONCLUSION
5.3 PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED
5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS
REFERENCES
 CHAPTER ONE
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background To The Study
Surveying is the art of and science of determining the relative positions of various points or stations
on the surface of the earth by measuring the horizontal and vertical distances, angles, and taking
the details of these points and by preparing a map or plan to any suitable scale.
Surveying is a means of making relatively large-scale, accurate measurements of the Earth’s
surfaces. It includes the determination of the measurement data, the reduction and interpretation
of the data to usable form, and, conversely, the establishment of relative position and size
according to given measurement requirements.
Thus, surveying has two similar but opposite functions:
(1) the determination of existing relative horizontal and vertical position, such as that used for the
process of mapping.
(2) the establishment of marks to control construction or to indicate land boundaries by John
Wildfrid Wright(2000).
Surveying has been an essential element in the development of the human environment for so many
centuries that its importance is often forgotten. It is an imperative requirement in the planning and
execution of nearly every form of construction. Surveying was essential at the dawn of history,
and some of the most significant scientific discoveries could never have been implemented were
it not for the contribution of surveying. Its principal modern uses are in the fields of transportation,
building, apportionment of land, and communications.
Except for minor details of technique and the use of one or two minor hand-held instruments,
surveying is much the same throughout the world. The methods are a reflection of the instruments,
manufactured chiefly in Switzerland, Austria, Great Britain, the United States, Japan, and
Germany. Instruments made in Japan are similar to those made in the West.
History Of Surveying
It is quite probable that surveying had its origin in ancient Egypt. The Great Pyramid of Khufu at
Giza was built about 2700 BCE, 755 feet (230 meters) long and 481 feet (147 meters) high. Its
nearly perfect square and north–south orientation affirms the ancient Egyptians’ command of
surveying.
Evidence of some form of boundary surveying as early as 1400 BCE has been found in the fertile
valleys and plains of the Tigris, Euphrates, and Nile rivers, Clay tablets of the Sumerians show
records of land measurement and plans of cities and nearby agricultural areas. Boundary stones
marking land plots have been preserved. There is a representation of land measurement on the wall
of a tomb at Thebes (1400 BCE) showing head and rear chainmen measuring a grain field with
what appears to be a rope with knots or marks at uniform intervals. Other persons are shown. Two
are of high estate, according to their clothing, probably a land overseer and an inspector of
boundary stones.
The Greeks used a form of log line for recording the distances run from point to point along the
coast while making their slow voyages from the Indus to the Persian Gulf about 325 BCE. The
magnetic compass was brought to the West by Arab traders in the 12th century CE. The astrolabe
was introduced by the Greeks in the 2nd century BCE. An instrument for measuring the altitudes
of stars, or their angle of elevation above the horizon, took the form of a graduated arc suspended
from a hand-held cord. A pivoted pointer that moved over the graduations was pointed at the star.
The instrument was not used for nautical surveying for several centuries, remaining a scientific aid
only.
The Greeks also possibly originated the use of the groan, a device used to establish right angles,
but Roman surveyors made it a standard tool. It was made of a horizontal wooden cross pivoted at
the middle and supported from above, From the end of each of the four arms hung a plumb bob.
By sighting along each pair of plumb bob cords in turn, the right angle could be established. The
device could be adjusted to a precise right angle by observing the same angle after turning the
device approximately 90°. By shifting one of the cords to take up half the error, a perfect right
angle would result.
The Greeks used a form of log line for recording the distances run from point to point along the
coast while making their slow voyages from the Indus to the Persian Gulf about 325 BCE. The
magnetic compass was brought to the West by Arab traders in the 12th century CE. The astrolabe
was introduced by the Greeks in the 2nd century BCE. An instrument for measuring the altitudes
of stars, or their angle of elevation above the horizon, took the form of a graduated arc suspended
from a hand-held cord. A pivoted pointer that moved over the graduations was pointed at the star.
The instrument was not used for nautical surveying for several centuries, remaining a scientific aid
only.
Plane tables were in use in Europe in the 16th century, and the principle of graphic triangulation
and intersection was practiced by surveyors. In 1615 Willebrord Snell, a Dutch mathematician,
measured an arc of meridian by instrumental triangulation. In 1620 the English mathematician
Edmund Gunter developed a surveying chain, which was superseded only by the steel tape
beginning in the late 19th century.
The study of astronomy resulted in the development of angle-reading devices that were based on
arcs of large radii, making such instruments too large for field use. With the publication of
logarithmic tables in 1620, portable angle-measuring instruments came into use. They were called
topographic instruments, or theodolites. They included pivoted arms for sighting and could be used
for measuring both horizontal and vertical angles. Magnetic compasses may have been included
on some
Modern surveying can be said to have begun by the late 18th century. One of the most notable
early feats of surveyors was the measurement in the 1790s of the meridian from Barcelona, Spain,
to Dunkirk, France, by two French engineers, Jean Delambre and Pierre Méchain, to establish the
basic unit for the metric system of measurement.
Many improvements and refinements have been incorporated in all the basic surveying
instruments. These have resulted in increased accuracy and speed of operations and opened up
possibilities for improved methods in the field. In addition to modification of existing instruments,
two revolutionary mapping and surveying changes were introduced: photogrammetry, or mapping
from aerial photographs (about 1920), and electronic distance measurement, including the
adoption of the laser for this purpose as well as for alignment (in the 1960s). Important
technological developments starting in the late 20th century include the use of satellites as
reference points for geodetic surveys and electronic computers to speed the processing and
recording of survey data.
Uses Of Surveying
The surveying uses is has followed:
. • To prepare an engineering map which shows the position of engineering works such as
buildings, roads, railways, dams, canals.
• To prepare a contour map to know the topography of the area to find out the best possible site for
roads, railways, bridges, reservoirs, canals, etc.
• Surveying is also used to prepare military map, geological map, archaeological map etc.
• For setting out work and transferring details from the map on the ground.
Primary Divisions of Surveying
1. Plain Surveying:
• The plain surveying is that type of surveying in which earth surface is considered as a plane
and the curvature of the earth is ignored. In such surveying a line joining any two stations is
considered to be straight. The triangle formed by any three points is considered as a plane triangle,
and the angles of the triangle are considered as plain angles.
• Surveying is carried out for a small area of less than 250 km . It is carried out by local or state
agencies like R & B department, Irrigation department, Railway department.
2. Geodetic Surveying
The geodetic Surveying is that type of surveying in which the curvature of the earth is taken into
account. It is generally extended over larger areas. The line joining any two stations is considered
as curved line. The triangle formed by any three points is considered to be spherical and the angles
of the triangle are considered to be spherical angles. Geodetic surveying is conducted by the survey
of India Department and is carried out for a larger area exceeding 250 km.
Fundamental Principles Of Surveying
Two basic principles of surveying are:
• Always work from whole to the part
• To locate a new station by at least two measurements ( Linear or angular) from fixed reference
points.
Engineering is the application of science and mathematics to solve problems. Engineers figure out
how things work and find practical uses for scientific discoveries. Scientists and inventors often
get the credit for innovations that advance the human condition, but it is engineers who are
instrumental in making those innovations available to the world.
In his book, "Disturbing the Universe (opens in new tab)" (Sloan Foundation, 1981), physicist
Freeman Dyson wrote, "A good scientist is a person with original ideas. A good engineer is a
person who makes a design that works with as few original ideas as possible. There are no prima
donnas in engineering."
The history of engineering is part and parcel of the history of human civilization. The Pyramids of
Giza, Stonehenge, the Parthenon and the Eiffel Tower stand today as monuments to our heritage
of engineering, Today's engineers not only build huge structures, such as the International Space
Station (opens in new tab) (ISS), but they are also building maps to the human genome and better,
smaller computer chips.
Engineering is one of the cornerstones of STEAM education (formerly known as STEM
education), an interdisciplinary curriculum designed to motivate students to learn about science,
technology, engineering, the arts and mathematics by Jim Lucas
Types Of Engineering
1. Mechanical engineering
2. Electrical engineering
3. Civil engineering
4. Aerospace engineering
5. Nuclear engineering
6. Chemical engineering
7. Computer engineering
8. Industrial engineering
9, Environmental engineering.
Surveying In Engineering
Engineering surveying involves determining the position of natural and man made features on or
beneath the earth’s surface and utilizing these features in the planning, design and construction of
works. It is critical part of any engineering project. Without an accurate understanding of the size,
shape and nature of the site the projects risks expensive and time-consuming errors or even
catasrophicc failure.
All basic principles and fundamental such as vertical control, distance, angles and position right
through to the most modern technologies.
Which includes:
• An introduction to geodesy to facilitate greater understanding of satellite systems
• A fully updated chapter on GPS, GLONASS, and GALILEO for satellite positioning in
surveying etc.
Relationship between construction engineering and engineering survey:
The foundation of the development of construction enterprises is that the engineering quality meets
the requirements, especially in the fierce market competition, how to improve the level of
engineering quality management is the key topic discussed by enterprises. The development of
engineering quality management often includes many contents, but all its work must be supported
by the data of the previous period, which cannot be separated from the application of engineering
survey work. At present, engineering survey technology is more diversified. Only through more
scientific and reasonable engineering survey can the relevant drawings be designed and is also an
important basis for judging whether the work is carried out smoothly. For example, the purpose of
surveying and laying line in engineering is to provide more accurate direction for the construction
of subsequent projects. Therefore, it can be said that engineering survey is one of the technical
core of construction project. If the engineering survey work cannot be applied effectively, the
engineering quality will not be guaranteed.
1.1.1 Route Survey
A Route Survey is defined as being the required service and product that adequately locates the
planned path of a linear project or right of way which crosses a prescribed area of real estate,
extending from at least one known point and turning or terminating at another known point.
Adequate location shall mean substantial compliance with the conditions and tolerances expressed
in this standard. A route survey which defines new or proposed boundaries shall be conducted as
 a boundary survey and must adhere to the rules and regulations of the Texas Board of Professional
Land Surveying (TBPLS).
Anderson (1985) explained that Survey of some type is required for practically all phases of route
alignment, planning, design and construction work. During the planning stage, a
topographic survey of the site is performed and maps are prepared to be used in the development
of plan for the project. The control network established for these topographic and property survey,
contain many of the horizontal and vertical control point which will eventually form the basis for
subsequent construction surveys.
1.2 Statement Of Problem
It was discovered that the route from South to sewage has many curve part, which had been badly
eroded and the full road by the left edge has being damaged by rain; also, the road is found to be
too narrow along the pensioner office to 1000 caps and needed to be extended considering the
volume of how wide the road is down to music. Rehabilitation of this road should be carried out
in other to increase its carrying capacity thereby increase the physical development and human
activities therein. Due to these, certain information about the road must be acquired which calls
for route survey so as to get the baseline data necessary for the road design
1.3 Aim And Objectives Of The Project
1.3.1 Aim Of The Project
The main aim of this project is:
 To carry-out Route Survey of The Polytechnic, Ibadan (from South to sewage).
1.3.2 Objectives Of The Project
In actualization of the said aim of the project, the following are the objectives
Reconnaissance which include office planning and field reconnaissance.
1. Identification of existing features and adjoining roads.
2. Stability of the ground controls to be use for orientation.
3. Determination of centre line and marking of chainages along the centre line at an interval
of 25m.
4. Marking out some selected points for the cross-sectioning at intervals of 3m to the right
and left on the profile and also the edges of drainage was mar.
5. Leveling to determine the height of some selected points along the road.
6. Detailing by the use of a total station
 7. Plan production (graphical representation of the surveyed road way) drawn with
appropriate scale.
8. Reports write up.
1.4 Scope Of The Project
• Reconnaissance: Is an extensive duty of an entire area that might be used for a road or
airfield. Its purpose is to eliminate those routes or sites which are impractical or unfeasible
and to identify the more promising routes or sites.
• Data Acquisition: Is the processing of sampling signals that, measure real world physical
conditions and converting the resulting samples into digital numeric values that can be
manipulated by a computer.
• Map Production: Map making is also known as cartography, they both mean the same
thing, this is, using geographical information and transforming it into a map. As we may
know from seeing maps in school and at home a map is a graphic which shows a simplified
picture (or visualization) of some of the features of a location/area.
• Data Processing: Is the act of converting raw data into structured information that can
then be analyzed for insights, responses from surveys can come back to you in a range of
different formats with inconsistent responses, missing values and more.
• Data Presentation: is a presentation of comparing two or more data sets with visual aide,
such as graphs.
• Report Writing: a report is a short, sharp, concise document which is written for a
particular purpose and audience. It generally sets outs and analysis a situation or problem,
often making recommendations for future action. It is a factual paper, and needs to clear
and well structured.
1.5 Personnel:
Table 1.1: List of personnel
S/N NAMES MATRIC NUMBER REMARK
1. HUNDOGAN BENJAMIN NUTAYI 20200703060019 WRITER
2. OJETOLA ESTHER MOYINOLUWA 20200703060013 MEMBER
3. YUSUF SOLIU OLAMILEKAN 2020233070032 MEMBER
4. ADELEKE KEBIRAT ADEOLA 20200703060015 MEMBER
5. AREMU JOSHUA ANUOLUWAPO 2020233070015 MEMBER
6. OLAYINKA OLUWASEUN ELIJAH 2020070360014 MEMBER
7. OYEJIDE DANIEL AYOBAMI 2020233070025 MEMBER
8. ABODUNRIN ABDUL SAMAD 20200703060027 MEMBER
1.6 Study Area
The project site is the route from South campus to Sewage. It cover approximately 2.3 km extent
of land.
 CHAPTER TWO
2.0 LITERATURE REVIEW
Surveying began in Babylon and Egypt in the form of field measurements. The great pyramids
which are mystery hitherto could not have been built without the knowledge of surveying
principles in spite of the conflicting views about its physical construction. The Egyptians used
stones to mark boundaries of their farmland along Nile valley as temporary beacons even though
the beacons used to be washed away later.
Barnister and Raymond (1977) defined surveying as the art of making measurement of relative
boundaries by permanent beacons, position of natural and man-made features on the earth surface
and the plotting of the measurements to some suitable scale to form a map, plan or chart.
Thomas & Norman (1961) defined engineering surveying as expression for any survey work
carried out in connection with the construction of civil engineering and building project. He also
stated that engineers and surveyor involved in site surveying are responsible for all aspect of
dimensional control on such schemes. According to Norman the main purpose of engineering
surveying is:
(i) To provide large scale topographical maps/plans and other measurements at the conceptual
and design stage.
(ii) To provide precise framework at the construction stage.
(iii) To monitor structural movement on major retaining structure at the post construction stage.
Wilson (1977) believed that when there is need for design of route to be carried out, different type
of plans must be acquired to enable such design to be approximately done; such plan may be
cadastral and topographical in nature.
2.1 Review Of Previous Route Survey Project
The basics of route survey projects would be reviewed in this section, highlighting aspects such as
aim and objectives, parameters measured, instrumentation, challenges faced, results, conclusion
and recommendation.
2.1.1 Route Survey Of A Portion Of Yaba College Of Technology Staff Quarters
This project was aimed to create an avenue for the students to show the knowledge acquired during
the course of training to know the various approaches in solving numerous problems usually
encountered on the site, to test the ability of the students in planning, organizing and executing
survey operations, to expose the students to the techniques of the route survey and to test the ability
of the students in data presentation e.g plotting.
The methodology used in achieving the task includes planning, reconnaissance Total Station
traverse was carried out to produce plan metric coordinates of all features point.
Third order spirit level was run at interval of 15m at Centre of the road to determine heights of
points along the road.
This tested result was later used to produce survey plan drawn to scale 1:2000 which graphically
showed the relative position and heights of all points.
One of the problems encountered was that the environment under which the project was done
experienced a lot of traffic.
The recommendation was made before embarking on the project, all logistics must properly be
taken care of baring in mind that safety is of high importance and logistics cannot be left to suffer.
The researchers also concluded that the project was completed in good times and the results were
achieved with optimum accuracy and precision which met the required standards and the project
was duly carried out I full compliance with compliance with existing Federal and State
Specifications and in compliance with the Company Quality Control Standards.
2.2 Purposes Of Route Survey
A Route Survey is usually required for the planning of a right of way, the acquisition of fee or
easement property and for eventual construction layout work. The location of the facilities within
the right of way are often held in respect to the center line or a right of way line. A Route Survey
is made on the ground to provide for the location of right of way lines, a centerline, or reference
lines in relation to property lines and terrain features Route Surveys shall include but are not
limited to the proper location, monumentation, description or platting of the following routes:
• Roadways, highways and railroads.
• Transmission lines for communications, fuel, chemical, water and electrical needs.
• Canals, waterways, drainage ditches and sewers.
• View easements, air space easements, ingress and egress easements such as approach
routes.
2.3 Highway Route Surveying
Highway surveys involve measuring and computing horizontal and vertical angles, elevations, and
horizontal distances. The results of these surveys are used to prepare detailed plan and profile base
maps of proposed roadways. In addition, the elevations determined in the survey serve as the basis
for calculation of construction cut and fill quantities, and in determining roadway banking.
This section presents a review of basic terminology, concepts, and standard procedures used in
highway surveys. The review begins with some basic definitions.
Highway curves can be either circular arcs or spirals. A simple curve is a circular are connecting
two straight lines (tangents). A compound curve consists of two or more circular arcs of different
radii tangent to each other with their centers on the same side of the common tangent. Compound
curves where two circular are having centers on the same side are connected by a short tangent are
called broken-back curves. A reverse curve is two circular arcs tangent to each other but with their
centers on opposite sides of the common tangent. A curve whose radius decreases uniformly from
infinity to that of the curve it meets is called a spiral curve. Spiral curves with the proper super
elevation (banking) provide safe and smooth riding qualities. Circular and spiral curves are used
for curves in the horizontal plane. Tangents in the vertical plane are joined by parabolic curves
(also referred to simply as vertical curves).
Also, engineering surveying is divided into design-data-survey and construction survey. A design-
data –survey is an orderly process of obtaining data that is needed for the planning and design of
an engineering report. The activities involved in design-data surveying vary according to the type
and existing owner of the engineering or construction project. For example, the activities might
include obtaining topographic data for a proposed building site or they may include extensive route
surveying and soil investigation for a highway.
A route survey as the name implies is a survey that deals with the route or course that imaginary
road or utility line will follow while the end product of a route survey for a highway certainly
differs from that of a utility line, it may nevertheless be said that the purpose of the route survey
are to:
(i) Selection one or more tentative general route for the roadway or utility.
(ii) Gather enough information about the general route to make it possible for designers to select
the final location of the route.
(iii) Mark this final location.
Reginnal (1968) defined route survey as the survey necessary for the location and construction of
lines of transportation or communication such as highways, canals, transmission lines and
pipelines. He stated that the location and construction survey may consist of:
(i) Establishing the center line by setting at intervals and running level to determine profile of the
ground along the Centre line
(ii) Taking cross section
(iii) Plotting such profile and fixing grades
(iv) Calculating volume of earthwork
(v) Measurement of drainage areas
(vi) Laying out structures such as bridges and culverts.
The execution of route surveying entails some basic processes as far as data acquisition is
concerned. These are outlined as follows:
(i) Traversing
(ii) Leveling
(iii) Detailing’s
(iv) Curve designation
Traverse is a sequence of connected straight lines whose direction and distances have been
measured. Traverse is also the process of connecting series of lines with known bearings and
distances. It is subdivided into first order for precise measurement and second order for the
establishment of secondary controls while the third order is meant for survey of tertiary and
topographical features.
Basak (2000) explained leveling as the art of determining the relative vertical heights of different
point on the earth surface.
He further explained that aerial photograph is very unpunctual and may not give the expected
results but air borne lidar of remote sensing techniques could be more accurate, faster, reduce the
required ground survey control.
Brinker and minick (1987) stated that tunnels, dams, sewer lines, pipelines and transmission lines
are engineering construction works having linear shapes which are classified as route. Hence, route
survey as a unique system for expressing route geometry has developed to a broad range used in
executing project by all surveyors, designers and contractors.
It was narrated by Vincent-Tao and El-Sheimy (2000) that the best way of acquiring data and
information during the survey for the purpose of rehabilitation of a highway route could be done
using mobile mapping system.
A comprehensive route survey consists of some operations which are:
(1) Reconnaissance
(2) Preliminary survey
(3) Location survey
(4) Construction survey

In conclusion, according to ghilani and Wolf (2006), Route survey are made to plan, design and
construct highways, railroads, pipelines and other projects,They normally begin at one control
point and progress to another in the most direct manner permitted by field conditions.
According to Uren (1994), a longitudinal section provides information only along the canter line
of a proposed project, for works such as pipeline, which are only of narrow extent in the form of
a trench cut along the surveyed center line, a longitudinal section provides sufficient data or
construction to be planned and carried out. As for cross sectioning, this is essential because once
any new road formation or construction is proposed, it is certain to involve cut and fill, then there
is urgent need to define the limits of both before construction starts. A useful convention is that of
the width of cross sections of the road has to be marked with pegs. This done purposely to indicate
the extent if the new route to be constructed.
Route survey can be explained as a survey of the earth surface along a particular route in the
compilation and updating of topographical, geological, soil, and other maps and the correlation of
selected contours and objects with geodetic reference or land point during linear surveys, and also
in the study of the dynamics of natural and socioeconomic phenomena in a narrow strip of terrain.
For small projects involving widening or minor improvement of an existing facility, the survey
may be relatively simple and may include only the obtaining of sufficient information for the
designer to prepare plans and specification defining the work to be done.
In order to plan and perform in carrying out this survey, the surveyor must be familiar with:
1. The geometry of horizontal and vertical curves and how they are used in the routes
alignment procedure in the aspects of methods of acquiring terrain data utilized in the route
design procedure.
2. Establishing on the ground a system of stakes or the other markers, both in plane and
elevation from which measurement of earthworks and structure can be taken conveniently by
thee construction force.
3. Given line and grade as needed either to replace stakes disturbed by construction or to reach
additional points on the structure itself.
4. Making measurement necessary to verify the location of completed parts of the structure (as-
built-survey) and to determine the volume of work actually performed
 CHAPTER THREE
3.0. Methodology
This aspect of the project outlines the methodology and procedure adopted in executing the aim of
the aim of the project with a view of achieving the best of result by considering several
predisposing factors such as:
3.1 Reconnaissance
Reconnaissance is an extensive duty of an entire area that might be used for a road or airfield( both
office planning and field reconnaissance). Its purpose is to eliminate those routes or sites which
are impractical or unfeasible and to identify the more promising routes or sites.
3.1.1 Office Reconnaissance
This aspect involves deciding the purpose of the project, the accuracy at which the work is to be
executed, the equipment to be used and the location of existing set of controls needed for
orientation. Consecutive controls were selected for the fact that there were no initial controls on
the ground, so the used controls were newly emplaced, purposely for proper and convenient
execution of the project.
Table 3.1: Source of control pillar data (from the file of coordinates of The polytechnic, Ibadan)
STATION NORTHINGS EASTINGS HEIGHT

PBN 30346 379021.390 163802.106 213.616

PBN 30347 379013.465 163736.332 211.094

PBN 30348 378971.509 163636.019 208.753

PBN 30285 380201.036 162422.178 182.817

PBN 30286 380243.074 162380.578 183.315

3.1.2 Field Reconnaissance

This aspect involved site visitation in order to have a good knowledge of the nature of the terrain,
location of the controls within the vicinity that will be used for the orientation of the survey work
and selection of points, which were marked with nails and corks for availability throughout the
whole stages of the field operation. In the selection of these points, intervisibility between
consecutive points and safety of the selected points for future reference were put into consideration.
Figure 3.1: Recce Diagram (file attached next page)
3.2 EQUIPMENT USED
1. Theodolite
2. Level Instrument and tripod
3. Ranging poles
4. Plumb bob
5. Cutlass
6. Leveling staff
7. Linear tape
8. Nails and bottle corks
9. Field book and writing material
3.3. Instrument Test
In accordance with survey rules and regulations, all the survey equipment to be used for any project
must be tested before they were used in the field. This is to ensure the geometry of the instrument
have not been altered beyond tolerance. Theodolite and level were the major instrument used for
Data acquisition, both of them were fully checked and tested to ensure that they were in good
working condition.
3.3.1 Theodolite Test (Horizontal And Vertical Collimation Test)
The theodolite was set up on Station A and temporary adjustments were carried out. Target was
set up on another station B. The target was bisected via the telescope of the theodolite on both
faces i.e. (face left and face right) and the horizontal and vertical readings were taken and recorded
as shown below:
Theodolite t Target

A B

Figure 3.2: Theodolite Test

The collimation errors that were obtained for both horizontal and vertical circle readings indicated
that the instrument was in good working condition and could be used for the project.
3.3.1.1 Horizontal Collimation
This test was carried out to ensure that the Theodolite line of sight is perpendicular to the horizontal
(Trunnion) axis. This was achieved as follows:
While the instrument was still leveled, next was focusing, by turning the focusing screw to remove
the parallax and turning eye-piece so as to bring the cross-hair to the field of view.
A well-defined distance object was bisected with the cross-hair and observation made to it on both
faces that is face left and face right, horizontal circle readings were taken and recorded as shown
in the table below.
Table 3.2: Horizontal Collimation Error Test

Instrument Face Horizontal Reading Difference

Face Left 229° 59’ 55”

Face Right 49° 59’ 36” 180° 00’ 19”

Theoretically, for any instrument to be free of horizontal collimation error, the difference should
be 180°, with permissible error of ±30 seconds. Hence, the result obtained indicates that the
instrument has a collimation error of 19.0 seconds i.e.
180° 00’ 19” − 180° 00’ 00”
= 00° 00’ 9.5”
2
3.3.1.2 Vertical Collimation
This check was carried out to ensure that the horizontal axis of the instrument is truly horizontal,
with the same bisected object, vertical circle readings were taken on both faces and recorded
accordingly as shown below;
Table 3.3: Vertical Collimation Error Test
Instrument Face Vertical Reading Sum

Face Left
87° 33’ 42”

Face Right
272° 24’ 42” 359° 59’ 24”
 360° 00’ 00” − 359° 59’ 24”
= 00° 00’ 18”′′
2

From the reading, the index error was 18 second of arc, that is, half the difference between the
sum of two reading and complete circle of 360 degree. In view of this, the result of the two tests
conducted, the error obtained was minimal, to conclude that the collimation of the instruments to
be used for the project was in order. The collimation errors that were obtained for both horizontal
and vertical circle readings indicated that the instrument was in good working condition and could
be used for the project.
3.3.2 Level Instrument Test (Two Peg Test)
The level instrument test is also known as the two-peg test method. To carry out this, two points
A and B were chosen and marked on a fairly level terrain 30metres apart and two leveling staves
were each held at both ends of the line with the level instrument set midway between the points.
Back and foresights readings were taken on the two staves and recorded. The instrument was later
moved and then set up 10metre away from A towards B and the back sight and foresight readings
equally taken and recorded as shown below:

Fig. 3.3.1: First set up of two peg test for level.

B/S = 1.679m
F/S = 1.382m
∆H1 = B/S – F/S
= (1.679 – 1.382)m =
0.298m
The level was then shifted to another point 10m and 20m from point A and B respectively.
Readings were also taken to the staff at point A and B.
 Staff A Staff B

10 20

Fig. 3.3.2: Second set up of two peg test for level.

B/S = 1.588m
F/S = 1.293m
∆H2= B/S – F/S
= (1.588 – 1.293)m
= 0.295m
Collimation Error = ∆H2 – ∆H1
= 0.298 – 0.295
= 0.002m
Using the leveling accuracy formula of ±24mm√k, the discrepancy was negligible and the above
result shows that the level was found to be in good condition.
Where k = Total difference in kilometer = 2200m = 2.2km
= 2.2.km
Allowable difference = 24mm√2.2km
Allowable result = 1.125m
 3.4 Control Check

This was embarked upon to determine the stability of the control, whether they are still in good
order, control check is done to mark sure the controls as not been tampered or shifted from its
actual point.

The instrument was set on control pillar PBN 30347 and a back sight on face left and face right is
observed to control pillar PBN 30346 a foresight observation was taken on face left to control
pillar PBN 30348 and the instrument was transited to face right and an observation to control pillar
PBN 30348 was taken and recorded. The table below shows the observation for the control check.
Table 3.4 Angular Observations on Control Pillars.

Station Sight Face Horizontal reading Horizontal reduction Mean angle

PBN 30347 L1 359 ̊ 59’ 40”

PBN PBN 30348 L2 164 ̊ 09’ 50” 164 ̊ 10’ 10”

303467 PBN303468 R2 344 ̊ 09’ 18” 164 ̊ 10’ 8” 164 ̊ 10’ 09”

PBN 30347 R1 179 ̊ 59’ 10”

Table 3.5 back computation of starting controls.

Dist. Northings Eastings

Station Bearing ∆n ∆e Station to
(m) (m) (m)

379021.390 163802.106 PBN 30346

263 ̊ 7’ 47” 66.250 - 7.923 - 65.774 379013.465 163736.332 PBN 30347

247 ̊ 18’ 10.2’’ 180.734 - 41.956 - 100.313 378971.509 163636.019 PBN 30348
 Table 3.6 back computation of closing controls.
Dist. Northings Eastings
Station Bearing ∆n ∆e Station to
(m) (m) (m)
380201.036 162422.178 PBN 30285
315’18’0.17’’ 59.142 42.038 - 41.6 380243.074 162380.578 PBN 30286
3.5 Field Operations And Procedures
It entails set of methods, all necessary tasks, principles adopted and performed in the field, in order
to acquire data which are necessary for the production of both cross section and profile plan of the
road. The following procedures were adopted to achieve our aim:
i. Theodolite Traversing
ii. Detailing
iii. Leveling Operation
iv. Plotting
3.6 Theodolite Traversing
The following steps are the procedures taken for theodolite traversing. The steps/adjustment are
grouped into four. These are; Setting, Centering, Levelling and Focusing.
i Tripod legs was equally spaced and head was approximately level
ii Level Head was directly over survey point.
iii The Instrument was mounted on Tripod using tribrach and its clamp.
iv Secured with centering screw while bracing the instrument with the other hand.
v Focus the optical plummet on the plummet on the survey point survey point
vi The leveling foot screws were adjusted to center the survey point in the optical
plummet reticle.
vii The bubble was centered in the circular level by adjusting the tripod legs adjusting
the tripod legs
The horizontal clamp was loosened and the instrument, turned until plate level was parallel to two
of the leveling foot screws.
iv. The bubble was centered using the leveling screws- the bubble was moved towards the screw
and is turned clockwise. The instrument was rotated 90 degrees and level using the using the
3rd leveling screw leveling screw
v. The survey point was observed in the optical plummet and we centered the point by loosening
the plummet and the centering screw and sliding the entire instrument
vi. After re-tightening the centering screw check to make sure the plate level bubble is levelled
in several directions
3.7 Detailing
Detailing was used to fix the road in order to determine the shape, length, width and its direction.
Existing structures such as building, electric poles, culvert were fixed in the process.
Actually, combinations of successive points previously determined in the main and subsidiary
traverse served as base stations for the fixing of all existing building, culverts, roads, electric poles
and other utilities found along the route. Traverse rays and chain survey methods were effectively
combined during this exercise to fix those features.
The instrument and the target were set respectively on the control points. The necessary temporary
adjustment were done, observation were made to the back target and recorded. Forward
observation were made with the aid of ranging pole mounted on the control point to a point marked
‘1’ which are numbered serially on the reccee diagram; which shows the numbering of the features
observed, the values were recorded in the field book. The target man is then moved to the next
point ‘2’, the values for this point were also recorded. These went on until all point needed to be
observed on that stations were done. The instrument is then moved to the next station to repeat the
above procedures.
3.8 Levelling Operation
One of the requirements of this project was to provide height values at the centre of the road.
Levelling is a general term applied to any of the various processes by which elevations of points
or difference in elevations are determined. It is a vital operation in producing necessary data for
mapping, engineering design and construction.
The automatic level was set, at the control point where the height was transferred to chainage, 00
+ 00 after temporary adjustment were done, the leveling staff was placed to the other control point,
observation was made to 3 decimal places, while the staff carrier was later directed to move to the
central point of the road, the values were recorded before it was moved to the centre of the road at
next chainage (25m) observation was also taken and recorded in field book. The back observation
was recorded as back sight reading ‘BS’ while the centre of the road readings were recorded as
intermediary sight ‘I/S of the road level ‘RL’, whereas, change of points ‘CP’ were done when
necessary.
The usefulness of the linen tape cannot be over emphasized in that 25meters was measured away
from the instrument, the leveling staff was placed there, observation were made and recorded as
fore sight ‘FS’.
Henceforth, another 25meters previous was measured forward which the level instrument now
occupied, the fore station is now the back sight at the new setup, observation were made as in the
previous station and recorded accordingly
All these procedures was done throughout the entire length of the route.
3.8.1 Cross Section
The level instrument was set up on a convenient place between a known point and my first
chainage point. The staff on the known point was observed and recorded as our back sight and
then turn to the staffs held vertically on 3.0m and 6.0m (left and right side) perpendicularly to the
chainage point and reading was observed and recorded as intermediate sight. The perpendicularly
sides of other chainage points (25m intervals) visible from the place of the instrument were
observed and recorded as intimidate sight. The instrument station was changed when it could no
longer intercept the staff again and the reading last sighted to the point last seen is taken and
recorded as foresight. Without changing the position of the last staff, the instrument was moved
and set up again and the staff was read for the second time and recorded as back sight. The same
procedure was repeated to all other chainage points. It was later closed on the foresight to a known
3.9 Plotting
3.9.1 Plotting Of Traverse Lines
The traverse lines were plotted with the corrected coordinates obtained in the traverse computation.
3.9.2 Plotting Of Profile
The profile was plotted to show the existing ground level of the centre line and the proposed
formation level. Perpendicular lines were drawn at each horizontal chainage i.e. 25m and the
difference in height between the reduced reduced level and the datum were scaled out on the
perpendicular lines. Then, the points were then joined to form the profile.
3.9.3 Plotting Of The Cross Sections
With the arbitrary datum given, the reduced level of both sides of the route was plotted. The cross
section was perpendicular to the profile.
3.9.4 Plotting Of Details
Every existing detail such as roads, buildings, drainage, electric poles etc. were plotted with
reference to the main traverse along the centre line of the road.
 CHAPTER FOUR
4.0 DATA PROCESSING, COMPUTATION AND PRESENTATION OF RESULT
The focus of this chapter part is to present the results obtained from the processed data and
undertake a detailed analysis of the results to achieve the objectives stated in ‘CHAPTER ONE’
4.1 Data Processing
This procedure involves various checks for the traverse and leveling, traverse computation and
levelling computation.
The total time spent on computation is much more to the time spent on field work. The following
were the computational approaches used after completion of the field work; Checking of field
observation; Setting up traverse angles and distances of traverse legs; Deduction of bearing;
Checking the bearing misclosure; Distributing the bearing misclosure; Calculation of the
coordinates of traverse stations; Calculation of the closing error; Balancing of consecutives
coordinates; Calculation of independent coordinates.
4.1.1. Field Book Reduction
The horizontal angles were reduced by subtracting the face left (FL) reading of the back station
from that FR reading of fore station and face right (FR) of back station from FR forestation, then
take the mean between the two to give observed horizontal angle (OA). For the vertical angle, face
left reading was subtracted from 90 degree and 270 degrees subtracted from face right, reading.
The two were equally averaged to find the slope angle.
4.1.2. Levelling field book reduction
The Back sight (BS) was subtracted from the Intermediate sight (IS) answer in either rise(+) or
fall(-), then the first (IS) was subtracted from the second(IS) to get the next answer, this process
was repeated continuously till we have a new Change point (CP), where the (IS) is subtracted
from the Foresight (FS)for next answer and then (BS) subtracted from next(IS) same process was
repeated to the end.
4.1.3 Leveling Computation
The Level readings were reduced using Rise and Fall method, i.e. the vertical distance from the
datum to the instrument line of sight.
The formulae used in these methods are as follows;
HI = RL + BS ……………………………… (i)
RL = HI – IS ……………………………… (ii)
RL = HI – FS ……………………………… (iii)
Where;
BS – Back sight
IS – Intermediate Sight
FS – Foresight
For the leveling, the computation commenced from the control station with a given height above
mean sea level. In all total number of loops were computed for misclosure. All loops were checked
for conformity with the accepted limit before they were being distributed proportionally to the
number of foresights or change-points. This was achieved using the formulae ;
24mm√K …………………………….. (xviii)
Where;
K is the total distance level in Kilometer.
The results of these are as shown in the levelling field book.
4.2 Data Computation
This consists of reduction of angle, correction to the measured distances, bearing deduction,
provisional coordinates and linear accuracy computations
4.2.1 Backward Computation
After writing the coordinates for the computation consisting of the Northings, Eastings and the
stations by the left, there will be a dash (------) on the first line after the coordinate by the right
side, then we move to the second line by subtracting the second coordinate from the first e.g ^N=
C2-C1, ^E=D2-D1 to get or our delta Northings and delta Eastings with sign either (+) or (-), also
√((^N)2+(^E)2) to get for distance.
Lastly, Shift tan ^E/^N= bearing, but knowing the quadrant which the bearing of the ^N and ^E
fall to by doing necessary addition and subtraction.
4.2.2 Forward Compuation
This was started by first computing the initial bearing and distance by punching calculator, from
the given coordinates of the initial control points using the formulae;
Bearing (θ) = (ΔE / ΔN)…………………………….. (i)
Distance (L) = √ (ΔE² + ΔN²)…………………………….... (ii)
Where;
ΔE – is the difference in Eastings of initial control
ΔN – is the difference in Northings of initial control
FB= BB + OA………………………………. (iii)
Here, where the angular result is more than 360º, 360º is subtracted from it to give the forward
bearing of such line. The same computation procedure was repeated until the bearing of the last
point was obtained.
4.2.3 Provisional And Final Coordinates
The partial coordinates (∆N and ∆E) of the points were added or subtracted to the coordinates
(Northing and Easting) of the adopted control in a cumulative way in order to get the provisional
coordinates of each point using the formula below:
Provisional Northing=northing of the initial station ±∆N of the new station
Provisional Easting=easting of the initial station ± ∆ Eof the new station
The last provisional coordinates of the closing control was compared with given final coordinates
of the control and the corrections obtained were applied to the provisional coordinates of other
stations to get their final coordinates using the transit method of adjustment. Thus:
Correction per station (Northing) = arithmetic sum of the station x correction in northing
Total arithmetic sum
Correction per station (Easting) = arithmetic sum of the station x correction in easting
Total arithmetic sum
In getting the final corrected coordinate;
Final coordinates = partial coordinates + correction per stations
e.g : partial northing coordinates of peg 1 + correction per stations
= 863971.288 + 0.004 = 863971.292
The Linear accuracy was computed to know limits of the accuracy of the work:
Formula for linear accuracy = 1
√ (∆N) 2+ (∆E) 2
Total distance
Where:
∆ N = Error in northing co-ordinate
∆ E = Error in easting co-ordinate
4.2.3.1 Check On Bearing Misclosure
This was checked to ensure it falls within permissible limit using the formula;
Permissible error = 30" √n …………………… (iv)
Where, n = number of stations
4.2.3.2 Calculation Of Coordinates
The latitude and departure of a survey line is termed as the coordinates measured parallel and at
right angle respectively to the assumed meridian. It is of great importance to enter these entities in
their correct columns.
The latitude of a line is obtained by multiplying its length by the cosine of its bearing. The departure
of a line is obtained by multiplying its length by the sine of its bearing.
If l is the length and Ѳ is the forward bearing of the traverse leg, then;
Latitude ∆N = l x cosine …………………………………… (v)
Departure ∆E = l x sine ……………………………………... (vi)
The latitude and departure of any station with respect to the preceding station are known as the
consecutive coordinates or dependent coordinates.
4.2.3.3 Linear Accuracy
The difference between the computed coordinate and the coordinate of the control station gives a
closing error called linear misclosure. This error is then used to check for the linear accuracy.
 This is given by;
Linear accuracy, L ………. (vii)
4.2.3.4 Transit Rule
This was adopted in distributing the linear misclosure in order to obtain the final corrected
coordinate.
Transit Rule is given as;
For Northing;
Correction = Total Error in Northing × Individual Line Arithmetic Sum …. (viii) Total
Arithmetic Sum of Northing
For Easting;
Correction = Total Error in Easting × Individual Line Arithmetic Sum …….(ix)
Total Arithmetic Sum of Easting
 CHAPTER FIVE
5.0 SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED AND
RECOMMENDATION
5.1 SUMMARY
The aim of this project is to carry out research on route survey south to sewage in The Polytechnic,
Ibadan
The instruments used were collected from the school stores and tested so as to ensure that they
were in good working condition. The reconnaissance surveying was properly carried out, both the
office and field reconnaissance survey and this allowed for proper planning of the operation. Also
control check was carried out to ensure that the controls used are intact.
The fieldwork involved traversing, leveling i.e. (profile and cross section) and detailing whereby
prominent features close to each station along the project site were fixed, All necessary reductions
and computations which include forward and backward computations and leveling computation
were done according to survey rules and regulations, the supervisor`s instructions and
departmental instructions were equally strictly adhered to. All data computed were within the
expected.
Finally, the location plan, profile plan and cross section plan were produced on stable materials
in both analogue and digital format. A comprehensive technical report was written.
5.2 CONCLUSION
Looking at the analysis of the result obtained at various stages of the project, it was obvious that
the desired result and specifications were met; therefore, the aim was achieved.
This project has give me the opportunity to practice the surveying principles and techniques learnt
in the course of this program and thus enhance my practical knowledge. It has also helped to expose
my weakness and enabled me to build up strength in certain areas of survey techniques.
Finally, it has prepared me for any challenge that I may encounter after this National Diploma
Program.
5.3 PROBLEMS ENCOUNTERED
The major problems encountered on the field were mentioned below;
1. Traffic along the route caused delay during the field observation. This was corrected by
changing direction traffic during the work.
2. Present of pot holes along the route.
3. Movement of both vehicles and human resulting in the project execution delay.
4. Weather condition such as high Sun leads to project execution delay instead of two (2)
days on site we spent (3-5) days.
5. Revisiting the site to re-observe where correction needs to be made.
5.4 RECOMMENDATIONS
i. I will recommend that provision should be made for a GIS laboratory so as to equip
students with efficient skills in Survey related software.
ii. Since surveying is basically about filed work, I will recommended students should have a
lot of practical work during their course of Study, this will prepare them for future
challenges and will also enhance their skills.
iii. I will also recommend that every instruments in the store that needs to be serviced should
be serviced in due time and that which requires calibration should be calibrated at the
appropriate time. Also, more instruments should be made available to enhance the students
pratical.
 REFERENCES
Barnister and Raymond (1977): Defined surveying as the art of making measurement of relative
boundaries by permanent beacons.
Basak (2000): Leveling as the art of determining the relative vertical heights of different point on
the earth surface.
Brinker and minick (1987): Stated that tunnels, dams, sewer lines, pipelines and transmission lines
are engineering construction works having linear shapes which are classified as route.
Clark (1972): Defined Surveying as the position of natural and man-made features on the earth
surface and the plotting of the measurements to some suitable scale to form a map, plan or chart”.
Edmund Gunter (1620): He developed a surveying chain, which was superseded only by the steel
tape beginning in the late 19th century.
James Watt in (1771): Stadia hairs is a device for dividing a circle into degrees with great accuracy.
John Wildfrid Wright (2000): The establishment of marks to control construction or to indicate
land boundaries.
Reginnal (1968): Defined route survey as the survey necessary for the location and construction
of lines of transportation or communication such as highways, canals, transmission lines and
pipelines.
Thomas & Noriman (1961): Defined engineering surveying as expression for any survey work
carried out in connection with the construction of civil engineering and building project.
Vincent-Tao and El-Sheimy (2000): Define the best way of acquiring data and information during
the survey for the purpose of rehabilitation of a highway route could be done using mobile mapping
system.
Willebrord Snell in (1615): A Dutch mathematician, how to use an arc of meridian by instrumental
triangulation.
Wilson (1977): He said when there is need for design of road construction route should carried
out.