A GPS survey can support projects for architects, engineers, planners or developers by providing non-invasive and accurate measuring.
During a GPS survey, data and geometrical calculations are collected by using satellites sending signals to receivers on the ground. GPS surveying can be used in multiple industries because it produces reliable data and can gather more topographic information for a project. This satellite-based navigation system was initially developed for military use in the 1970’s but GPS became fully operational in 1993 and later commercialised for industries such as surveying.
What is a GPS survey?
The Global Positioning System (GPS)is a satellite-based navigation system which enables surveying professionals across multiple industries to collect reliable and accurate coordinates of latitudes and longitudes without measuring distances and angles between points.
How does a GPS survey work?
The process of a GPS survey is quite simple. The Global Positioning System uses a network of satellites to transmit data to and from the ground or receivers.
GPS receivers on the ground communicate with the satellites to gain accuracy of longitude and latitude of the point on the ground.
As the receiver begins to communicate with a satellite, four surrounding satellites will transmit data measuring the satellite’s accurate positioning, time of the reading and the distance to the height of the receiver.
What are the benefits of a GPS survey?
There are multiple benefits to investing in a GPS survey before the development of construction plans:
- Not weather dependent: no matter the weather conditions or time, GPS can triangulate the signal and provide a location.
- Accuracy: GPS provides accurate geographic measurements.
- Mobility: GPS systems are easily transferred or transported to different locations.
- Convenience: GPS can be used on any given site at the touch of a button
How is a GPS Survey done?
There are three primary methods of GPS measurement that surveyors use: Static GPS Baseline, Real-Time Kinetic Observations and Continuously Operating Reference Stations.
STATIC GPS BASELINE
This method is particularly useful for long range distances and measurements. A static baseline technique is used to detect the accurate distance between two points. Two receivers are placed at the end of the line to be measured, and the receivers then collect GPS data for a minimum duration of 20 minutes. A specially curated software programme is then used to calculate the distance between the two receivers.
REAL-TIME KINEMATIC OBSERVATIONS
Unlike the Static GPS Baseline technology, Real-Time Kinematic Observations have one static receiver known as the Base station and the other receiver on a Rover station which moves to multiple positions during the measuring process. This method is ideal for harvesting data over slightly smaller areas.
CONTINUOUSLY OPERATING REFERENCE STATIONS
The Continuously Operating Reference Station (CORS) is unique in its data collection because the Base station is installed in a known permanent location. This means localised measurements will send signals to this fixed Base station. CORS is used for the purpose of major engineering construction projects that requite ongoing surveying over a continuous period.
Partnering with Lucion Group
Working with Lucion Group, our experienced team will expertly interpret your GPS survey data, providing clear insights to support the development of an informed plan for your upcoming project. We are committed to delivering precise, reliable data to facilitate confident decision-making.
To learn more about how our GPS surveying services can benefit your project, please contact us today.
