KERALA STATE ELECTRICITY BOARD LTD

POWER ENGINEERS TRAINING AND RESEARCH CENTRE (PETARC),

MOOLAMATTOM 2023-24.
PROJECT REPORT ON

TOPOGRAPHICAL SURVEY USING TOTAL STATION, DGPS AND

APPLICATION OF REMOTE SENSING IN SURVEYING

SUBMITTED BY

Er. THRYSHNAV A KUMAR AE(CIVIL), USHEP IDUKKI

IN PARTIAL FULFILMENT OF THE INDUCTION CUM STATUTORY TRAINING PROGRAM FOR

ASSISTANT ENGINEERS (CIVIL) AND SUBMITTED TO THE POWER ENGINEERS TRAINING AND
RESEARCH CENTRE (PETARC), MOOLAMATTOM 2023-24.
 POWER ENGINEERS TRAINING AND RESEARCH CENTRE (PETARC),
MOOLAMATTOM 2023-24.

CERTIFICATE

This is to certify that this project report entitled “Topographical survey using Total
Station, DGPS and application of remote sensing in surveying” is a bonafide
record of the work carried out by Er. Thryshnav A Kumar, Employee Code: 1108248
in partial fulfilment of the induction cum statutory training program for Assistant
Engineers (Civil) and Submitted to the Power Engineers Training and Research
Centre (Petarc), Moolamattom during the year 2023-24.

Er. Krishna Prasad Deputy Chief Engineer

Deputy Chief Engineer PETARC, KSEB LTD
ARU Civil Circle Moolamattom
Kothamangalam

Er. Joone Joy

Project Mentor
Assistant Executive Engineer
CONTENTS
ABSTRACT.................................................................................................................................... 1
1. INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................... 2
2. OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH .............................................................................................. 4
3. METHODOLOGY.................................................................................................................... 5
4. GPS SEGMENTS..................................................................................................................... 7
5. TOTAL STATION .................................................................................................................... 8
6. General Overview of Remote Sensing.................................................................................... 9
General Observations on Remote Sensing in Geography .......................................................... 10
Application of Remote Sensing in Geography .......................................................................... 10
7. RESULT ............................................................................................................................... 11
DGPS Survey RTK Method Result ............................................................................................ 12
Total Station Survey Result ..................................................................................................... 13
DGPS Survey Static Method Result.......................................................................................... 13
Drawing By Total Station Result .............................................................................................. 14
Drawing By DGPS Static Result................................................................................................ 15
8. CONCLUSION ...................................................................................................................... 16
9. REFERENCES ....................................................................................................................... 17
ABSTRACT
Most surveying works for mapping or GIS applications are performed with total station.
Due to the remote nature of many of the sites surveyed, the surveys are often done in
unprotected, local, assumed coordinate systems. However, without the survey data projected
in real world coordinates, the range of possible analyses is limited and the value of existing
imagery, elevation models, and hydrologic layers cannot be exploited. This requires a
transformation from the local assumed to the real-world coordinate systems.

The indirect levelling method using total station for levelling is considered to have due
accuracy, applications of the indirect levelling is gradually expanding for public works such as
construction of roads, airports and cities. The results are expected to be used for many public
works including routine survey, wide residential land development and subsidence measuring
instruments.

This case study delves into the comparison of two prominent surveying methodologies,
Total Station and DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System), within the context of the
Upper Sengulam KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) project. The Upper Sengulam project,
situated in Kerala, India, demands meticulous surveying to support its objectives, including
infrastructure mapping and development planning. This study examines the efficacy of Total
Station and DGPS techniques in meeting the project's surveying requirements. Through a
systematic analysis of accuracy, efficiency, and applicability, this research aims to offer
insights into selecting the most suitable surveying method for similar projects. The findings of
this study contribute to advancing knowledge in surveying methodologies, aiding practitioners
and decision-makers in optimizing surveying approaches for infrastructure development
projects.

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 1. INTRODUCTION
Total station surveys are a widely used method to survey topography. With applications
ranging from traditional land surveying. Land form evolution monitoring. To land use
monitoring. In the geosciences and bio- logical sciences, total stations are now becoming
standard tools in monitoring geomorphic change detection of rivers. Streams. Beaches. And
mass wasting of hill slopes. Since many total station surveys are now undertaken in remote
and/or undeveloped localities, there is often not an established local control network tied to a
projected real world coordinate system. Thus, many of these surveys are done from a un-
projected local assumed coordinate system. Here the effect of using geodetic GPS as sources
for control points on the precision and Base relative accuracy of total station survey.

The Upper Sengulam KSEB (Kerala State Electricity Board) project stands as a
testament to the critical role of accurate surveying in infrastructure development. Nestled in
the verdant landscapes of Kerala, India, this project embodies the complexities and challenges
inherent in electrification endeavours in rugged terrains. The success of such initiatives hinges
significantly on precise mapping, planning, and execution, necessitating advanced surveying
techniques.

In this case study, we delve into the comparison of two leading surveying
methodologies: Total Station and DGPS (Differential Global Positioning System). These
technologies have revolutionized the field of surveying, offering unparalleled precision and
efficiency. The Upper Sengulam project serves as an ideal backdrop for this comparative
analysis, as it requires meticulous surveying to support the installation and maintenance of
electrical infrastructure across varied landscapes.

The objectives of this study are twofold: first, to assess the effectiveness of Total
Station and DGPS surveying methods in meeting the specific requirements of the Upper
Sengulam project, and second, to provide insights into selecting the most suitable surveying
approach for similar electrification initiatives.

Through a systematic examination of accuracy, efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and

applicability, this research aims to shed light on the strengths and limitations of each surveying
method within the context of the Upper Sengulam project. By understanding the comparative
performance of Total Station and DGPS, stakeholders can make informed decisions regarding
surveying methodologies, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of
infrastructure projects.

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 This introduction sets the stage for a comprehensive exploration of surveying
methodologies in the context of the Upper Sengulam KSEB project, laying the groundwork for
an in-depth comparative analysis of Total Station and DGPS surveying techniques.

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 2. OBJECTIVES OF THE RESEARCH
a) To Evaluate Surveying Accuracy: Compare the accuracy of data collected
through Total Station and DGPS surveying methods in the context of the Upper Sengulam
KSEB project. This objective aims to determine which method yields more precise
measurements, particularly crucial for infrastructure planning and development.
b) To Assess Surveying Efficiency: Analyse the efficiency of Total Station and
DGPS surveying techniques in terms of time required for data collection, processing, and
analysis. This assessment will provide insights into the operational efficiency of each method,
aiding project managers in optimizing resource allocation and scheduling.
c) To Examine Cost Implications: Evaluate the cost-effectiveness of Total
Station and DGPS surveying methods, considering equipment expenses, personnel training,
and other associated costs. Understanding the financial implications of each method is
essential for budgetary planning and project feasibility analysis.
d) To Determine Applicability Across Varied Terrains: Investigate the
suitability of Total Station and DGPS surveying methods for diverse terrains encountered in
the Upper Sengulam project area. By assessing the performance of each method in different
topographical conditions, this objective aims to identify the most versatile surveying approach
for similar electrification initiatives.
e) To Provide Recommendations for Surveying Method Selection:
Synthesize the findings of the comparative analysis to offer actionable recommendations for
selecting the most appropriate surveying method for future infrastructure projects. These
recommendations will be informed by the objectives outlined above and will aim to guide
decision-makers in optimizing surveying practices to achieve project objectives effectively and
efficiently.

By addressing these research objectives, this study aims to contribute valuable

insights into the comparative performance of Total Station and DGPS surveying methods in
the specific context of the Upper Sengulam KSEB project. The outcomes of this research will
inform decision-making processes related to surveying methodologies, ultimately enhancing
the success and sustainability of infrastructure development initiatives.

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 3. METHODOLOGY
1. Study Area Selection:
1.1. Define the study area within the Upper Sengulam KSEB project site, considering
factors such as terrain complexity, vegetation coverage, and infrastructure
distribution.
1.2. Ensure that the selected area represents diverse conditions encountered throughout
the project site to facilitate a comprehensive comparative analysis.
2. Data Collection:
2.1. Utilize both Total Station and DGPS surveying equipment to collect spatial data within
the chosen study area.
2.2. Establish control points for georeferencing and ensure their accurate positioning using
both surveying methods.
2.3. Conduct systematic data collection, adhering to standardized procedures to maintain
consistency and reliability across surveys.
3. Accuracy Assessment:
3.1. Compare the accuracy of spatial data obtained from Total Station and DGPS surveys
by evaluating positional discrepancies between corresponding data points.
3.2. Utilize statistical measures such as root mean square error (RMSE) to quantify the
level of agreement between surveying methods.
3.3. Validate survey results against ground truth data or reference datasets, where
available, to verify the accuracy of both methodologies.
4. Efficiency Analysis:
4.1. Document the time required to complete surveying tasks using Total Station and
DGPS equipment, including setup, data collection, and post-processing.
4.2. Consider factors such as equipment calibration, satellite acquisition time, and data
transfer speed to assess overall surveying efficiency.
4.3. Analyse labour requirements and skill levels necessary for conducting surveys using
each methodology.
5. Cost Evaluation:
5.1. Compile cost data associated with Total Station and DGPS surveying, including
equipment purchase or rental, maintenance, training, and operational expenses.
5.2. Calculate total surveying costs for both methods, accounting for initial investment and
ongoing operational expenditures.
5.3. Conduct a comparative cost analysis to determine the cost-effectiveness of each
surveying approach.
6. Terrain Suitability Assessment:

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 6.1. Characterize the terrain features and environmental conditions encountered within the
study area, such as elevation variation, vegetation density, and soil type.
6.2. Evaluate the performance of Total Station and DGPS surveying methods across
different terrain types, considering factors such as line of sight obstruction and signal
degradation.
6.3. Identify challenges and limitations specific to each surveying method in relation to
terrain characteristics.
7. Data Analysis and Interpretation:
7.1. Analyse the collected data sets to compare the performance of Total Station and
DGPS surveying methods in terms of accuracy, efficiency, cost, and terrain suitability.
7.2. Interpret the findings to identify strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats
associated with each surveying methodology.
7.3. Draw conclusions based on the research objectives and present actionable
recommendations for selecting the most appropriate surveying method for similar
projects.
8. Documentation and Reporting:
8.1. Compile the research findings, including methodology, results, and interpretations,
into a comprehensive report.
8.2. Present the report to stakeholders involved in the Upper Sengulam KSEB project, as
well as relevant academic or professional audiences, to disseminate the research
outcomes and facilitate informed decision-making.

By following this methodology, the comparative analysis of Total Station and DGPS
surveying methods within the context of the Upper Sengulam KSEB project can be conducted
systematically, providing valuable insights for optimizing surveying practices in similar
infrastructure development initiatives.

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 4. GPS SEGMENTS
GPS consists of three segments: the space segment, the control segment, the user
segment. The space segment consists of the 24- satellite constellation introduced in the
previous section. Each GPS satellite transmits a signal, which has a number of components:
two sine waves (also known as carrier frequencies), two digital codes, and a navigation
message. The codes and the navigation message are added to carriers as binary biphasic
modulations. The carriers and the codes are used mainly to determine the distance from the
user’s receiver to the GPS Satellites. The navigation message contains, along with other
information, the coordinates (the location) of the satellites as a function of time. The
transmitted signals are controlled by highly accurate atomic clocks onboard the satellites.
More about the GPS signal Provided. The control segment of the GPS system consists of a
worldwide network of tracking stations, with a master control station (MCS) located in the
United States, Colorado. The primary task of the operational control segment is tracking the
GPS satellites in order to determine and predict satellite locations, System integrity, and
behaviour of the satellite atomic clocks, atmospheric data, the satellite almanac, and other
considerations. This information is then packed and uploaded into the GPS satellites through
the S-band link. System integrity, and behaviour of the satellite atomic clocks, atmospheric
data, the satellite almanac, and other considerations. This information is then packed and
uploaded into the GPS satellites through the S-band link. The user segment includes all
military and civilian users. With a GPS receiver connected to a GPS antenna, a user can
receive the GPS signals, which can be used to determine his or her position anywhere in the
world. GPS is currently available to all users worldwide at no direct charge.

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 5. TOTAL STATION
Total station surveying - defined as the use of electronic survey equipment used to
perform horizontal and vertical measurements in reference to a grid system (e.g. UTM, mine
grid). Total station surveys are a widely used method to survey topography with applications
ranging from traditional land surveying. The Total station is an electronic theodolite (Transit)
integrated with an electronic distance meter (EDM) to read slope distances from the instrument
to be a particular point. Robotic Total station allow the operator to control the instrument from
a distance via remote control. At present, Total Station has been widely spread and used in
many survey sites, and sometimes it is not fully used since users misunderstand the principles
of this unit. One of them is the levelling, and in case we use Total Station for levelling, this is
classified as the indirect levelling method, and since it is judged that this method can maintain
the considerable accuracy, now it has been increasingly used for many public works such as
road, airport and city etc. This study empirically made research in the improvement of accuracy
of precise levelling by using the indirect levelling method, Total Station that can more simply
and quickly find elevation by replacing the direct levelling. Drawback that extensive traversing
is required. Moreover, extensive clear- cutting and intervening private properties might be
required as well. GPS overcomes these conventional-method drawbacks. Any of the GPS
surveying methods, such as kinematic GPS or RTK GPS, can be used depending on the
project requirements, location, and other factors. The RTK surveying, however, seems to be
the most suitable method, especially in unobstructed areas. This is mainly because of its ease
of use and the availability of the results while in the field. In accessible locations or obstructed
areas can be surveyed with integrated systems such as GPS/LRF or GPS/total station. In
some cases, such as the case of GPS, the obtained heights are referred to the reference
ellipsoid, not the geoid Therefore, these heights are known as the ellipsoidal heights. An
ellipsoidal height can also be positive or negative depending on whether the point is located
above or below the surface of the reference ellipsoid. Unfortunately, ellipsoidal heights are
purely geometrical and do not have any physical meaning. As such, the various Geomatic
instruments (e.g., the total stations) cannot directly sense them.

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 6. General Overview of Remote Sensing
Here we mainly concerned with remote sensing used for geography, the field of remote
sensing is very wide in data acquisition methods, data processing procedures, and various
techniques and applications. Therefore, it is useful to provide a general overview about several
important topics regarding remote sensing of the surface of the earth. The text also attempts
to give the reader an understanding of the capabilities and limitations of remote sensing. Very
few equations and formulas will be given in the text, as the focus will be on understanding the
basic ideas.

Remote sensing is defined according to certain functions. It involves acquiring the

information of an object’s property by a device not in contact with that object under study. This
involves the utilization at a distance of any device for gathering information pertinent to the
environment, such as measurements of force fields, electromagnetic radiation, or acoustic
energy for aircraft, space crafts, or ships. The technique employs such devices as a camera,
lasers, radio frequency receivers, radar systems, sonars, seismographs, gravimeters,
magnetometers, and scintillation counters. Some examples of remote sensing applications
are given in the areas that have importance for the geographers. Due to the wide scope
covered, the subjects could not be covered in detail and the interested reader should turn to
the relevant literature (Lillesand and Kiefer, 2000; Sabins, 2007; Jenson, 2007; Longley et. al.,
2005; Shukla and Pathak 2009).

As humans, we are intimately familiar with remote sensing in that we rely on visual
perception to provide us with much of the information about our surroundings. As sensors,
however, our eyes are greatly limited by sensitivity to only the visible range of electromagnetic
energy, viewing perspectives dictated by the location of our bodies, and the inability to form a
lasting record of what we view. Because of these limitations, humans have continuously
sought to develop the technological means to increase our ability to record the physical
properties of our environment.

Beginning with the early use of aerial photography, remote sensing has been
recognized as a valuable tool for viewing, analysing, characterizing, and making decisions
about our environment. In the past few decades, remote sensing technology has advanced
on three fronts: from predominantly military uses to a variety of environmental analysis
applications that relate to land, ocean, and atmosphere issues; from analogue photographic
systems to sensors that convert energy from many parts of the electromagnetic spectrum to
electronic signals; and from aircraft to satellite platforms.

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General Observations on Remote Sensing in Geography
• They provide new applications for geography.
• They provide new and improved accuracy of measurement.
• They provide new data that allow the investigation of ideas that were previously
untestable.
• They involve the development of data processing capability.
Application of Remote Sensing in Geography
Geographic applications of remotely sensed data typically take one of four explanatory
forms:

• Remote sensing images have specific uses within various fields of geographical
study.
• Remote sensing data possess advantages over conventional data and can provide
multispectral, multidata, and multisensory information. This data is very useful in
the agricultural fields for the crop type classification, crop condition assessment,
crop yield estimation, and soil mapping.
• In geology, remote sensing can be applied to analyse large, remote areas. Remote
sensing interpretation also makes it easy for geologists to identify an area's rock
types, geomorphology, and changes from natural events such as a flood, erosion,
or landslide.

The interpretation of remote sensing images allows physical- and bio geographers,
ecologists, agricultural researchers, and foresters to easily detect what vegetation is present
in certain areas, its growth potential, and sometimes what conditions are conducive to its being
there.

Additionally, those studying urban land use applications are also concerned with
remote sensing because it allows them to easily pick out which land uses are present in an
area. This can then be used as data in city planning applications and in the study of species
habitat.

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 7. RESULT
1. Accuracy Comparison:
1.1. The comparison of spatial data obtained from Total Station and DGPS surveys
revealed differences in positional accuracy.
1.2. Total Station demonstrated higher precision in capturing point coordinates, especially
in areas with good line of sight to reference points.
1.3. DGPS exhibited slightly lower accuracy compared to Total Station, particularly in
environments with dense vegetation or tall structures that obstruct satellite signals.
2. Efficiency Analysis:
2.1. Total Station surveys generally required less setup time and data collection time
compared to DGPS surveys.
2.2. However, DGPS offered advantages in terms of survey coverage, allowing for rapid
data acquisition across large areas with minimal manual intervention.
2.3. Post-processing time for DGPS data was typically longer due to the need for
differential correction and data adjustment, whereas Total Station data could be
processed more quickly.
3. Cost Evaluation:
3.1. Initial investment costs for Total Station equipment were higher than DGPS
equipment, including the cost of the instrument itself and necessary accessories.
3.2. However, DGPS surveys incurred ongoing operational costs associated with satellite
subscription services and periodic equipment calibration and maintenance.
3.3. The overall cost-effectiveness of each surveying method depended on factors such
as project scale, duration, and frequency of surveying activities.
4. Terrain Suitability Assessment:
4.1. Total Station surveys performed well in areas with clear line of sight to survey targets,
allowing for accurate distance and angle measurements.
4.2. DGPS surveys encountered challenges in terrain with significant obstructions, such
as dense forests or urban environments with tall buildings, leading to signal loss or
multipath interference.
4.3. In open terrain with unobstructed sky views, DGPS demonstrated superior
performance in terms of survey coverage and data acquisition speed.

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5. Overall Comparison and Recommendations:
5.1. Both Total Station and DGPS surveying methods offer unique advantages and
limitations, making them suitable for different surveying scenarios.
5.2. Total Station is well-suited for detailed, high-precision surveys in areas with good
visibility and access, while DGPS excels in rapid data collection over large, open
areas.
5.3. For the Upper Sengulam KSEB project, a hybrid approach combining Total Station
and DGPS surveys may offer the best balance of accuracy, efficiency, and cost-
effectiveness.
5.4. Recommendations include selecting surveying methods based on project
requirements, terrain characteristics, and budget constraints, and integrating quality
control measures to ensure data integrity and reliability.

These results provide valuable insights into the comparative performance of Total
Station and DGPS surveying methods in the context of the Upper Sengulam KSEB project,
enabling informed decision-making for future infrastructure development initiatives.

DGPS Survey RTK Method Result

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Total Station Survey Result

DGPS Survey Static Method Result

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Drawing By Total Station Result

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Drawing By DGPS Static Result

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 8. CONCLUSION
The comparative analysis of Total Station and DGPS surveying methods within the
framework of the Upper Sengulam KSEB project has provided valuable insights into the
strengths and limitations of each approach. This study aimed to evaluate surveying accuracy,
efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and terrain suitability to inform decision-making processes for
similar infrastructure development initiatives.

The findings reveal that Total Station surveys offer higher precision and accuracy,
particularly in areas with clear line of sight to survey targets. The method's ability to capture
detailed data makes it well-suited for tasks requiring high levels of spatial resolution and
positional accuracy. However, Total Station surveys may be limited by terrain features such
as dense vegetation or tall structures, which can obstruct survey visibility and impede data
collection.

On the other hand, DGPS surveys offer advantages in terms of efficiency and survey
coverage, allowing for rapid data acquisition over large areas with minimal manual
intervention. DGPS is particularly effective in open terrains with unobstructed sky views, where
it can provide comprehensive spatial coverage at a relatively low cost. However, DGPS
accuracy may be compromised in environments with significant signal obstructions or
multipath interference, leading to potential inaccuracies in survey data.

The choice between Total Station and DGPS surveying methods ultimately depends
on project requirements, terrain characteristics, and budget considerations. For the Upper
Sengulam KSEB project, a hybrid approach that combines the strengths of both methods may
offer the best balance of accuracy, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness. By integrating Total
Station and DGPS surveys strategically based on specific project needs, stakeholders can
optimize surveying practices to achieve project objectives effectively and efficiently.

In conclusion, this case study underscores the importance of selecting the most
appropriate surveying method based on a comprehensive assessment of factors such as
accuracy, efficiency, cost, and terrain suitability. By leveraging the insights gained from this
comparative analysis, decision-makers can make informed choices regarding surveying
methodologies, ultimately contributing to the successful implementation of infrastructure
development projects like the Upper Sengulam KSEB initiative.

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9. REFERENCES
a) USACE, “Control and Topographic Surveying,” Engineering Manual,
EM11101-1005, US Army Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, 2007.
b) U. Kizil and L. Tisor, “Evaluation of RTK-GPS and Total Station for
Applications in Land Surveying,” Journal of Earth System Science, Vol. 120.
c) S. N. Lane and J. H. Chandler, “Editorial: The Generation of High-
Quality Topographic Data for Hydrology and Geomorphology: New Data Sources,
New Applications and New Problems,” Earth Surface Processes and Land- forms,
Vol. 28.
d) S. N. Lane, J. H. Chandler and K. S. Richards, “Developments in
Monitoring and Modeling Small-Scale River Bed Topography”, Earth Surface
Processes and Land- forms, Vol. 19, No. 4, 1994.
e) C. Fuller, A. R. G. Large and D. J. Milan, “Quantifying Channel
Development and Sediment Transfer Following Chute Cut-off in a Wandering
Gravel-Bed River,” Geo- morphology, Vol. 54, No. 3- 4, 2003.
f) D. M. Walters, D. S. Leigh, M. C. Freeman, B. J. Free- man and C. M.
Pringle, “Geomorphology and Fish Assemblages in a Piedmont River Basin, USA,”
Fresh-Water Biology, Vol. 48, No. 11, 2003.

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