1.

Surveying: Defini on, Objec ves, Classifica on, and Principles

(14 Marks | ~1000 Words)

1.1 Defini on of Surveying

Surveying is the science and art of determining the rela ve posi ons of points
on, above, or below the surface of the Earth by measuring angles, distances,
and eleva ons. It involves the process of mapping natural and man-made
features of an area and represen ng them on a plan or map.
The data collected through surveying is essen al for planning, designing, and
execu ng civil engineering, mining, and construc on projects. In mining,
surveying is crucial for explora on, development, excava on, and produc on
monitoring.

1.2 Objec ves of Surveying

The main objec ves of surveying, especially in mining contexts, include:
1. Establishing Control Networks:
o To set up horizontal and ver cal control points which form the
basis for all other survey opera ons.
2. Loca ng Features:
o To determine and represent the loca ons of natural and ar ficial
features such as ore bodies, tunnels, sha s, roads, and buildings.
3. Measuring Volumes:
o To calculate volumes of overburden, ore extrac on, or filling
material for planning and produc on purposes.
4. Marking Excava on Limits:
o To guide miners and engineers in digging within legal and planned
boundaries.
5. Monitoring Movements:
o To detect any ground movement or deforma on in mine
structures, thereby enhancing safety.
6. Prepara on of Plans and Sec ons:
o For documenta on, legal compliance, and technical analysis.

1.3 Classifica on of Surveying

Surveying can be classified based on various criteria:
A. Based on Nature of Work:
 1. Topographical Surveying:
o For preparing maps showing natural features like hills, rivers,
forests, etc.
2. Cadastral Surveying:
o Deals with property boundaries and land ownership, used in land
revenue and legal documents.
3. Engineering Surveying:
o For design and execu on of construc on projects like roads,
bridges, and buildings.
4. Mine Surveying:
o Specific to mining opera ons. It includes surface and underground
measurements to ensure efficient and safe extrac on.
5. Hydrographic Surveying:
o Related to water bodies to determine shorelines, depth, and
underwater features.
6. Astronomical Surveying:
o Uses celes al bodies for determining posi ons and direc ons.
B. Based on Instrumenta on:
1. Chain Surveying:
o Uses chains or tapes for linear measurements. Suitable for small,
rela vely flat areas.
2. Compass Surveying:
o Involves measurement of bearings using a magne c compass.
3. Theodolite Surveying:
o Measures horizontal and ver cal angles with high accuracy.
4. Plane Table Surveying:
o A graphical method using a plane table for quick surveys.
5. Tachometric Surveying:
o For rapid measurement of distance and eleva on using a
tacheometer.
6. Photographic and Aerial Surveying:
o Involves capturing ground features using drones, aircra , or
satellites.
7. GPS Surveying:
o Uses satellite-based posi oning systems for accurate loca on data.

1.4 Principles of Surveying

Surveying is based on two fundamental principles:
1. Working from Whole to Part
 Control points are first established over the en re area to reduce errors.
 The major framework is surveyed first, and then smaller details are filled
in.
 This helps localize errors and prevent accumula on.
2. Loca on of a Point by Measurement from Two Points of Reference
 A point's loca on is determined by taking measurements (like distance,
angle, or bearing) from two or more known reference points.
 Techniques include:
o Intersec on (by angles)
o Resec on (backward calcula on from known points)
o Triangula on

1.5 Importance of Surveying in Mining

 Planning and Design:
o Accurate data aids in the efficient design of mining opera ons.
 Volume Calcula on:
o Determines quan ty of ore and waste, helping in resource
es ma on and financial forecas ng.
 Safety Monitoring:
o Detects ground subsidence, structural deforma on, or movement
of rock masses.
 Legal Compliance:
o Ensures boundaries and mining opera ons are within legally
defined lease areas.
 Documenta on and Archiving:
o Essen al for government inspec ons and project audits.

1.6 Modern Trends in Surveying

Modern surveying has advanced significantly with the inclusion of digital and
automated equipment such as:
 Total Sta ons (combine EDM and theodolite)
 GNSS & GPS Systems
 3D Laser Scanning
 Drones (UAVs) for Aerial Surveying
 GIS and CAD for Data Processing
These tools offer higher precision, faster data collec on, and improved
visualiza on.

1.7 Diagram: Classifica on of Surveying

Here is a simplified 2D diagram for your notes:
Classifica on of Surveying
|
--------------------------------------------------
| | |
Based on Nature Based on Instruments Based on Area
| | |
Topographical, Chain, Compass, Plane Surveying
Cadastral, Mining, Theodolite, GPS, Geode c Surveying
Engineering, etc. Drone, Total Sta on

Conclusion
Surveying is the founda on of all mining opera ons. Understanding its
principles, classifica ons, and objec ves is essen al for efficient planning,
resource management, and safety. With evolving technologies, surveying has
become more precise and efficient, contribu ng significantly to the modern
mining industry.