This section will explain the purpose of Design Topographic Surveys, the procedure to request a survey proposal, how our consultation process works and any additional information needed for RM Meridian to perform the survey.

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What is a Design Topographic Survey?

               

Topographic surveys can contain the elevation, terrain, various utilities, contours of the ground, and locations of existing features located within the project’s boundaries, both above and below ground. These surveys provide data that is critical to the design process of a new structure or improvements of a developing project. The accuracy of these points is imperative for matching existing conditions when necessary and successfully mapping any additions planned. These surveys require “bench marks” to which ground contours are related, information regarding surface and underground utilities, determination of required setbacks, etc.

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A design topographic survey can contain a Boundary survey, Topographical survey, and for larger sites, an Aerial map that depicts the condition of the area that has yet to be developed. The purpose of this survey is to serve as a detailed base map for engineers, architects, and any others on-site, who need to know what the location’s conditions are to ensure the new additions are able to fit exactly within the confines of the project.

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How Design Topographic Surveys Work

 

When we begin design surveys, we evaluate several factors. We will analyze whether to use the conventional Total Station method, the RTK-GPS method, or a combination of both, to perform surveys that provide the highest quality product for our clients. We also determine whether the data will be stand-alone or supplement an aerial photography base map. RM Meridian selects the survey methods and techniques to match the final product requested while maintaining the most cost-effective approach.

 

Whether the data is collected conventionally or with RTK, detailed field notes are kept in field books to supplement the digitally collected data. We collect data on observed features, as well as aboveground and underground utilities, structures and roadway features, and other special features as the project requires. Information such as culvert type, size, and condition are noted, and pertinent detailed sketches created. Survey data is collected in the field using feature line coding. These codes allow the field surveyor to connect points into figures with specific feature types (i.e., asphalt, concrete). This provides for accurate delineation of the size, shape, and location of features in the field.

 

The digital data gathered in the field is returned to the office for processing and development of the design survey. All field data will be quality controlled by both the field and office personnel to ensure an accurate and quality final product is generated. The survey is created from the final quality controlled data; this can also be supplemented with existing ground surveyed data or photogrammetrically produced data. RM Meridian can produce base mapping through conventional, mobile field survey collection of all critical features and breaklines.