Classification of Survey: An Overview

Surveys are an important tool for collecting data about different aspects of land, water, and other natural or man-made features. Surveying is a vast field with many different types of surveys. These surveys can be classified based on various criteria, including the nature of the field, the objective of the survey, and the instruments used. In this blog post, we will explore these different types of surveys and their classifications in detail.

   

1. Based on the Nature of the Field

The first classification of survey is based on the nature of the field. This classification includes three different types of surveys:

a. Land Survey

Land surveys are conducted on the earth's surface to determine the boundaries, contours, and other features of the land. There are three main types of land surveys:

i. Topographic Survey: A topographic survey is conducted to gather information about the shape and features of the earth's surface. This type of survey is used to create topographic maps that show the elevation, contour lines, and other details of the terrain.

ii. City Survey: A city survey is conducted to gather information about the urban areas, including buildings, roads, and other man-made features. This type of survey is useful for creating city maps and planning urban development.

iii. Cadastral Survey: A cadastral survey is conducted to determine the boundaries of a property or a parcel of land. This type of survey is essential for land registration and property ownership.

b. Hydrographic Survey

A hydrographic survey is conducted on bodies of water, such as oceans, lakes, and rivers. This type of survey is used to gather information about the depth, shape, and other features of the water bodies. It is essential for navigation, marine transportation, and offshore engineering.

c. Astronomical Survey

An astronomical survey is conducted to determine the position, distance, and other characteristics of celestial objects, such as stars, planets, and galaxies. This type of survey is essential for astronomy and space exploration.

2. Based on the Objective of the Survey

The second classification of survey is based on the objective of the survey. This classification includes six different types of surveys:

i. Military Survey: A military survey is conducted to gather information about the terrain, geography, and other features of the land for military purposes. This type of survey is essential for military planning and operations.

ii. Mine Survey: A mine survey is conducted to gather information about the underground mines, including tunnels, shafts, and other features. This type of survey is essential for mining operations and safety.

iii. Geological Survey: A geological survey is conducted to gather information about the earth's geology, including the rock formations, minerals, and other features. This type of survey is essential for geological research and mineral exploration.

iv. Archaeological Survey: An archaeological survey is conducted to gather information about the archaeological sites, including artifacts, structures, and other features. This type of survey is essential for archaeological research and preservation.

v. Gravity Survey: A gravity survey is conducted to measure the gravity field of the earth. This type of survey is essential for geophysical research and mineral exploration.

vi. Engineering Survey: An engineering survey is conducted to gather information about the site and its surroundings, including the terrain, buildings, and other features. This type of survey is essential for engineering design and construction.

3. Based on the Instruments Used

The third classification of survey is based on the instruments used. This classification includes different types of surveys based on the instruments used, such as theodolites, total stations, GPS, and LiDAR.

Conclusion

Surveys are essential tools for collecting data about different aspects of the land, water, and other natural or man-made features.