A Total Station (TS) or Total Station Theodolite (TST) is a versatile tool used in surveying and construction. It is an electronic transit theodolite that integrates with electronic distance measurement (EDM) to provide both horizontal and vertical angle measurements and slope distance measurements from the instrument to a specific point.
The Total Station has an onboard computer that collects the data and performs triangulation calculations, making it an essential tool for the surveying industry. It measures angle using electro-optical scanning of precise digital barcodes etched on rotating glass cylinders or discs within the instrument. The most high-quality Total Stations can measure angles to 0.5 arc-seconds, while the lower-end “construction-grade” Total Stations can measure angles to 5 or 10 arc-seconds.
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Total Station: Distance measurement
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Distance measurement is done using a modulated infrared carrier signal, which is generated by the total station’s emitter and reflected back to the total station. The returning signal is interpreted by the Total Station’s computer. Distance is calculated by emitting and receiving multiple frequencies and determining the number of wavelengths to the target for each frequency.
Glass prism reflectors are typically used for EDM signals, and Total Stations can measure distances up to 1,500 metres with an accuracy of about 1.5 millimetres. Reflectorless Total Stations can measure distances to light-coloured objects up to a few hundred metres. To determine an absolute location, Total Stations require line-of-sight observations and can be set up over a specified point or with a line of sight to two or more points with known locations.
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Total Station: Data processing
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Total Station models may include internal storage for the distance, horizontal angle, and vertical angle measurements, or they may be equipped to transfer the measurements to an external data collector. Once the data is downloaded onto a computer, application software can process the results and generate a map of the surveyed area. The latest generation of Total Stations can even show the map on the instrument’s touch-screen after measuring the points.
Total Station: Uses
Total Stations are commonly used by land surveyors, civil engineers, archaeologists, and crime scene investigators to take measurements of scenes. They are also widely used in the mining industry to record the absolute location of tunnel walls, ceilings, and floors as drifts are driven in underground mines. In the construction industry, Total Stations are used in mechanical and electrical construction for layout purposes and to lay out the locations of penetrations in structures, such as pipes, conduits, ducts, and hangers.
Total Station is a versatile tool that has become the standard for most forms of construction layouts. With its advanced technology and functionality, it is an essential tool for surveyors and construction professionals to get accurate and precise measurements. Whether used in surveying, structure, or other industries, the Total Station provides reliable and efficient measurement solutions.
FAQs
How does a Total Station work?
A Total Station works by measuring angles with electro-optical scanning and distances with a modulated infrared carrier signal. The signal is emitted by the instrument, reflected by a prism reflector or object under survey, and received by the Total Station. The data collected is then processed by the onboard computer to calculate coordinates.
What is the range of a Total Station?
The range of a Total Station depends on the model, but typical Total Stations can measure distances up to 1,500 metres with an accuracy of about 1.5 millimetres. Reflectorless Total Stations can measure distances to light-coloured objects up to a few hundred metres.
Can Total Stations determine coordinates without a direct line of sight?
Yes, some Total Stations have a Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS) receiver that allows them to determine coordinates without a direct line of sight. However, GNSS measurements may have a longer occupation period and lower accuracy on the vertical axis.
How do you control a Total Station remotely?
Operators control robotic or motorised Total Stations via remote control.
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