Chapter 4 Angles and Directions

Introduction:

In chain or tape surveying, the area to be surveyed is divided into a number of triangles. This method is suitable for
fairly level ground covering small areas. But when the area is large and having undulations, chain or tape surveying is
not possible. In such areas, the method of traversing is adopted. Traverse framework consist of number of connected
lines. The length of the lines are measured by chain or tape and the directions are identified by angle measuring
instruments. One of the angle measuring instrument used are called as compass.

Compass Survey:

Compass survey is one of the most basic methods of determining the relative location of points where a higher degree
of precision is not required.

Principle of compass surveying:

The principle of compass surveying is traversing, which involves a series of connected lines. The magnetic bearings of
the lines are measured by prismatic compass and the distances of the lines are measured by chain or tape. Compass
survey does not require the formation of a network of triangles.
 Compass Surveying is recommended when:
a. A large area to be surveyed
b. b. The course of a river or coast line is to be surveyed and
c. c. The area is crowded with many details and where the triangulation is not possible.
Compass surveying is not recommended when:

d. Areas where local attraction is suspected due to the presence of magnetic substances like steel structures,
iron ore deposits, electric cable conveying current and so on.

Definitions in Compass surveying

Meridian – in surveying, lies in a vertical plane passing through a fixed point of reference and through the
observer’s position.
Four types of meridians:
 True meridian – is sometime known as the astronomic or geographic meridian. This line passes through the
geographic north and south poles of the earth and the observer’s position.

 Magnetic meridian – is a fixed line of reference which lies parallel with the magnetics of force of the earth.
Its direction is defined by a freely suspended magnetic needle of a compass held at the observer’s position.

 Grid meridian – is a fixed line of reference parallel to the central meridian of a system of rectangular
coordinates. This is applicable only to plane surveys of limited extent.

 Assumed meridian – is an arbitrary chosen fixed line of reference which is taken for convenience. This is
usually the direction from a survey station to an adjoining station or any permanent reference on the ground.
 Designation of North points:
Measurement of angle and direction:
Direction of lines – the horizontal angle the line makes with an established line of reference
Interior and Exterior Angles:
 Deflection Angle:

Angles to the right

Bearings - the acute horizontal angle between the reference meridian and a line