Advantages & Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying

Advantages & Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying

Advantages of Plane Table Surveying

Plane table surveying offers several advantages that make it a preferred method for certain projects. One of the key benefits is its suitability for preparing small-scale maps. This technique allows for accurate plotting of features directly on the field, minimizing errors that may occur when transferring data from the field to a separate map. The ability to compare the plotted work with the actual features in real-time ensures greater accuracy and reliability.

Another advantage of plane table surveying is its swift method of surveying, which saves time on projects. The plotting is done simultaneously with the field work, eliminating the need for separate plotting sessions. This not only speeds up the process but also reduces the chances of errors that can occur during the transfer of measurements.

Additionally, this method is particularly reliable in magnetic areas where compass surveys may not be feasible due to magnetic deviations.

Plane table surveying is also a cost-effective option for surveying projects. It requires less equipment and resources compared to other surveying techniques, making it a more affordable choice. Moreover, it does not require highly skilled personnel, allowing for easier training and implementation in various projects.

One unique advantage of plane table surveying is the ability to easily check for errors in plotting by drawing check lines. This feature ensures that any mistakes can be identified and corrected promptly, leading to more accurate results. This ability to quickly identify errors contributes to the overall efficiency of the surveying process.

Advantages of Plane Table Surveying
Suitable for preparing small-scale maps
Swift method of surveying, saving time
Plotting done simultaneously with field work, minimizing errors
Ability to compare plotted work with actual features for accuracy
Reliable in magnetic areas where compass survey is not feasible
Less costly than most surveying techniques
Does not require highly skilled personnel
Can easily check for errors in plotting by drawing check lines

Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying

While plane table surveying offers numerous advantages, it also has its share of limitations and disadvantages that need to be considered. Understanding these drawbacks is crucial for professionals and beginners alike to make informed decisions about when and how to use this technique.

1. Unsuitability in Rainy Seasons

One of the main limitations of plane table surveying is its inability to be effectively used during the rainy season. The instrument and the paper used for plotting are highly susceptible to water damage, making the data unreliable and leading to inaccuracies in the survey results.

2. Bulky and Heavy Instruments

Another challenge with plane table surveying is the weight and bulkiness of the instruments involved. Carrying the plane table and other necessary tools can be physically demanding, especially when working in rugged terrains or remote areas. This can slow down the surveying process and make it more challenging to cover large areas efficiently.

3. Time-Consuming Centering and Orienting

In plane table surveying, centering and orienting the table at each survey station can be a time-consuming task. This process requires a high level of precision and attention to detail, as any errors in centering or orienting can lead to significant distortions in the plotted data. It can also slow down the overall surveying process, especially when working on complex projects with multiple survey stations.

4. Lower Accuracy Compared to Other Methods

While plane table surveying is a reliable technique for certain applications, it is generally considered to have lower accuracy compared to other surveying methods, such as total station or GPS surveying. This limitation can make it less suitable for projects that require high precision and accuracy, such as large construction sites or engineering projects.

Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying	Description
Unsuitability in Rainy Seasons	The instrument and the paper used for plotting are highly susceptible to water damage, making the data unreliable and leading to inaccuracies in the survey results.
Bulky and Heavy Instruments	Carrying the plane table and other necessary tools can be physically demanding, especially when working in rugged terrains or remote areas. This can slow down the surveying process and make it more challenging to cover large areas efficiently.
Time-Consuming Centering and Orienting	Centering and orienting the table at each survey station can be a time-consuming task, requiring a high level of precision and attention to detail. Errors in centering or orienting can lead to significant distortions in the plotted data.
Lower Accuracy Compared to Other Methods	Plane table surveying is generally considered to have lower accuracy compared to other surveying methods, such as total station or GPS surveying. This limitation makes it less suitable for projects that require high precision and accuracy.

Table: Disadvantages of Plane Table Surveying

Key Takeaways

• Advantages of plane table surveying include suitability for small-scale maps, swift surveying, and simultaneous plotting and field work.
• Plane table surveying is reliable in magnetic areas and is a cost-effective technique that doesn’t require highly skilled personnel.
• Disadvantages of plane table surveying include its inapplicability during rainy seasons, heavy and bulky instruments, and time-consuming centering and orienting process.
• Results obtained through plane table surveying may be less accurate compared to other methods.
• Re-plotting and computing quantities without field notes can be inconvenient in plane table surveying.

With a clear understanding of the advantages and disadvantages of plane table surveying, you can make well-informed decisions regarding its usage in your surveying projects. By considering the benefits and limitations, you can optimize your surveying methods and ensure accurate and efficient results.

Conclusion

After examining the advantages and disadvantages of plane table surveying, it is clear that this method has both benefits and limitations. On the positive side, plane table surveying offers several advantages. It is well-suited for preparing small-scale maps and allows for swift surveying, saving valuable time.

The ability to simultaneously plot the data with field work helps minimize errors and ensures accuracy by comparing the plotted work with actual features. Additionally, plane table surveying is reliable in areas with magnetic interference, making it a valuable technique in such conditions. Furthermore, it is a cost-effective option compared to other surveying methods and does not require highly skilled personnel.

However, it is important to consider the limitations of plane table surveying as well. It is not usable during rainy seasons, as the instruments are not designed to withstand wet conditions. The instruments themselves are heavy and bulky, making them difficult to carry, and centering and orienting the table at each station can be time-consuming.

While plane table surveying provides useful results, they may not have the same level of accuracy as other more precise surveying methods. Re-plotting to a different scale or computing quantities without field notes can also be inconvenient.

In addition, it is important to note that plane table surveying is not suitable for large areas or dense forested regions where obstructed views of important field components hinder the surveying process. Furthermore, this method can only be conducted during daytime and is not suitable for night surveys.

Understanding the advantages and disadvantages of plane table surveying allows both professionals and beginners to make informed decisions regarding its application in their projects. By carefully considering its pros and cons, one can determine if this technique aligns with their specific surveying requirements and constraints.