Short Answer:

Different types of electronic surveying tools are used to measure angles, distances, and positions accurately. Common tools include total stations, electronic distance measurement (EDM) devices, GPS receivers, digital levels, and laser scanners. These instruments collect data quickly and precisely, reducing manual work and errors.

Each tool has a specific function in surveying. For example, total stations combine angle and distance measurement, GPS provides location data, and digital levels measure elevation. These tools are widely used in civil engineering for land surveys, construction layout, road design, and mapping.

Detailed Explanation:

Different types of electronic surveying tools

Electronic surveying tools have greatly improved the way surveyors collect, record, and process data. These instruments use advanced technology such as lasers, sensors, satellites, and digital displays to make measurements more accurate, faster, and easier to handle. In civil engineering, these tools help in planning, designing, and executing various infrastructure projects with better efficiency.

Below are the main types of electronic surveying tools commonly used today:

1. Total Station

A total station is one of the most commonly used tools in modern surveying. It combines the functions of a theodolite (for measuring angles) and an electronic distance measurement (EDM) device (for measuring distances). It also has a built-in computer to store data.

Total stations can measure both horizontal and vertical angles, as well as distances, and are widely used for topographic surveys, building layout, and road construction.

2. Electronic Distance Measurement (EDM) Instrument

An EDM device measures the distance between two points using light or infrared signals. It sends a signal to a reflector placed at a distant point and calculates the time it takes for the signal to return.

EDMs are accurate and quick and are mostly used in long-distance measurements where traditional tapes or chains are not suitable.

3. Global Positioning System (GPS) Receiver

A GPS receiver uses signals from satellites to determine the exact position (latitude, longitude, and elevation) of a point on the Earth. Survey-grade GPS receivers provide high accuracy and are widely used for mapping large areas, setting control points, and aligning construction features.

There are different types of GPS systems like handheld GPS, differential GPS (DGPS), and real-time kinematic (RTK) GPS, depending on the accuracy needed.

4. Digital Level

A digital level is used to measure height differences and elevation in land surveying. It replaces the traditional spirit level and staff with an electronic sensor and bar-coded staff. It displays readings on a screen, reducing human error and increasing accuracy in leveling work.

Digital levels are used in road leveling, building foundations, and drainage planning.

5. Laser Scanner

A laser scanner is used to capture the 3D shape of objects and surroundings by sending out laser beams and measuring how they bounce back. The collected data forms a dense point cloud that represents buildings, ground surfaces, and other structures.

Laser scanners are helpful in creating 3D models, recording existing conditions, and monitoring deformation or changes in structures over time.

6. Robotic Total Station

A robotic total station is an advanced version of the traditional total station. It can be operated remotely by one person using a controller. It automatically tracks the prism carried by the surveyor and records data without manual adjustments.

It improves speed, accuracy, and safety, especially on large and complex construction sites.

7. Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) or Drones

Drones equipped with cameras and GPS are used to conduct aerial surveys. They capture images from above and create maps, models, and measurements for large areas. They are very effective in places that are difficult or unsafe to access on foot.

Conclusion:

Different types of electronic surveying tools like total stations, EDMs, GPS receivers, digital levels, and laser scanners play a vital role in modern surveying. These tools offer better accuracy, faster data collection, and improved safety. They are essential for civil engineering tasks such as mapping, construction layout, and design planning, making the work more efficient and reliable.