What is meant by back sight (BS), fore sight (FS), and intermediate sight (IS)?

Short Answer:

In leveling, Back Sight (BS), Fore Sight (FS), and Intermediate Sight (IS) are terms used to take height measurements with a leveling instrument.

  • Back Sight (BS) is the first reading taken on a known benchmark or reference point.
  • Fore Sight (FS) is the last reading taken at the final survey point.
  • Intermediate Sight (IS) is any reading taken between the back sight and fore sight.
    These readings help in calculating height differences and determining elevations in surveying.
Detailed Explanation:

In surveying, leveling is used to measure height differences between points. To do this, readings are taken using a leveling instrument and a leveling staff. The three main types of readings in this process are Back Sight (BS), Fore Sight (FS), and Intermediate Sight (IS).

  1. Back Sight (BS):
  • This is the first reading taken after setting up the leveling instrument.
  • It is taken on a benchmark (BM) or any known elevation point.
  • It helps in determining the Height of Instrument (HI), which is the reference for further measurements.
  • Example: If a surveyor places the staff on a benchmark with a known RL (Reduced Level), the reading observed through the instrument is the BS.
  1. Fore Sight (FS):
  • This is the last reading taken before moving the instrument to another position.
  • It is taken on a new point where the next benchmark or reduced level needs to be determined.
  • FS helps in calculating the final elevation of the surveyed area.
  • Example: If a surveyor is leveling a road, the FS is the reading taken at the last point before shifting the instrument forward.
  1. Intermediate Sight (IS):
  • These are any additional readings taken between the BS and FS.
  • They help in determining elevations of multiple points without moving the instrument.
  • IS readings are useful in detailed surveys, where several points need to be measured in one setup.
  • Example: If a surveyor measures different points along a construction site, the readings taken between BS and FS are IS readings.

Importance of BS, FS, and IS in Leveling:

  • Ensures accurate height measurements for buildings, roads, and land grading.
  • Helps in calculating reduced levels (RL) by using height differences.
  • Reduces errors by providing multiple reference points in a single setup.
Conclusion:

Back Sight (BS), Fore Sight (FS), and Intermediate Sight (IS) are essential for leveling in surveying. BS is the first reading taken at a known point, IS readings are taken in between, and FS is the last reading before moving the instrument. These readings ensure accurate elevation measurements for construction and land development.