In this summarizing or capstone course, we take the learner through the entire process, beginning with organizing data with tables, which is usually forced if a field book or data collector is used. An important concept often missed is that a table of values needs twice the number of traverse points because angles pertain to a single point at a time, while distances (and directions) are between two points. Additional tips for finding and eliminating systematic errors is discussed so that the traverse calculation error of closure is the result of random error. The first error check is the summation of traverse angles, which should be due to random error, but can disclose relatively large errors that may actually be systematic or even mistakes. We then progress through calculating bearings, determining latitudes and departures, evaluating the errors in each, calculating adjustments, and re-calculating adjusted distances and directions. Finally, coordinates are calculated, from which the area of the figure is also determined. The summation of this knowledge is tested in a problem presented in table form that allows calculation of the unknowns without depending on correct answers for the previous questions (except for area). Running time 28 minutes.
You will learn…
- Traverse data organization for efficient hand calculation
- Some tips on examining data for mistakes, systematic errors, and random errors
- Review of the basic calculation steps through angle adjustment, calculation of latitudes, and departures.
- Continue the review with traverse adjustment, calculation of adjusted distances and directions, coordinates, and the area of the figure.
