What technologies are used in modern surveying?
posted 31st October 2024
As land surveyors, we have used traditional land surveying methods for many years, and while these methods achieved a goal, they were time consuming, and prone to error. They are impossible to use in adverse weather. Today, with the help of advancing technologies, we use a variety of new technologies that have revolutionised the way surveys are carried out.
Why Are Land Surveys Necessary?
Before we dive into what technologies are used in land surveying these days, let's take a quick look at why you may need a land survey in the first place. Our services are usually the first step in any renovation or new building process. We use a host of equipment that calculates elevations, heights, and horizontal distances.
You may need a land survey to understand the topography of your plot before your new build starts or to determine the size of the plot. Maybe you need to submit a planning permission application, or demolish an existing property. There are numerous reasons to have a land survey, as they provide accurate measurements and information that is used by architects, engineers, construction companies, utility companies, and more.
Common Land Surveys
At MB Survey Solutions, we don't only offer one type of survey, we have a variety of surveys you can choose from based on your particular goals and needs:
- Boundary surveys - used to determine the boundary of your plot before you start your building process, this is also useful in handling neighbour disputes
- Construction surveys - first step in a new build or renovation, provides accurate measurements that is used by architects and construction teams to ensure your build goes ahead smoothly
- Topographical survey - identify elements on your plot, this includes man-made structures and natural structures, including cliffs, trees, standing water, and more
Technologies used in Modern Surveying
These days we tend to use both modern and traditional technologies to carry out an accurate and effective land survey.
Total Station
Total stations enable us to map out the distances and heights of different elements, providing accurate measurements that can be used in the design of your new property.
Global Positioning System (GPS)
GPS enables us to map the latitude, longitude, distance, and height between to points, saving valuable time in your surveying process.
Drones
Drones are a fantastic piece of kit that has become valuable technology in land surveying, helping us reach areas that are difficult to access, providing accurate data points when carrying out a topographical survey.
LIDAR Technology
LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging) is used to measure land distances. It is a fast method that provides accurate results.
How Technology is Transforming Traditional Land Surveying
With the advancement in modern technologies, land surveying has taken a vital role in streamlining your development.
Some of the ways that technology has transformed traditional land surveying includes:
- Speed - We can now cover large areas of land quickly
- Precision - Accurate results are achieved within hours
- Improved safety - We can survey areas that are unsafe or challenging for us to access
- Data driven decisions - The data collected is precise, enabling you to make data driven decisions regarding your project.
Conclusion
Land surveying needs to be accurate, providing you with precise measurements to ensure your build goes ahead seamlessly and safely. With the advancement in technology available to land surveyors today, we are able to capture precise measurements and information within a shorter period of time, saving time and resources. Do you need a land survey? Contact us at MB Survey Solutions today. We offer years of experience and have extensive experience using the most up to date and cutting technology on the market.