This 2-day course, run in association with Technical BIM Studio, is specifically aimed at new and current AutoCAD users in the geospatial profession.

It ranges from understanding the basic AutoCAD environment to working with client/architectural drawings that may need scaling, grid rotation and fitting etc.

Course Summary

AutoCAD Basics

• Understand AutoCAD Environment & how to use the toolbar.
• Project set-up and templates
• Layer Management, Inserting Drawing, Blocks & Xrefs.
• Annotation & viewport scale

Working with Survey Data

• Understanding UCS and Coordinate system
• Control line visibility
• Topography digitisation from dxf
• Scale & grid rotations
• Finding measurements – area and distances

Working with backdrops

• Methods for converting paper drawings to AutoCAD.
• Importing and working with Raster Images
• Turning off the frame, adjusting quality, and controlling transparency
• Importing a PDF file
• Scaling & Osnaps with PDFs
• Controlling a PDF display
• Importing a PDF as an AutoCAD drawing
• Reconstructing imported SHX fonts

Documentation

• Sheet Layout and Title Blocks
• Scaling & adding a scale bar.
• Exporting and printing – to PDF, plotter etc.

Classes are limited to a maximum of 6 students.

This course can also be extended to an optional 3rd day which includes the AutoCAD Point Cloud Essentials Course

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 2-Day AutoCAD for Surveying

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post AutoCAD for Surveying appeared first on The Survey School.

This one-day course, AutoCAD Point Cloud Essentials, delivered in partnership with Technical BIM Studio, is designed to equip participants with practical skills for working with point cloud data in AutoCAD.

It is intended for:

• Existing AutoCAD users,
• Participants of the two-day AutoCAD for Surveying course (as an optional third-day add-on), or
• Previous attendees of the two-day AutoCAD for Surveying course.

The course content covers several key areas:

• Point Cloud Basics:
  • Understanding point clouds and the various point cloud data formats compatible with AutoCAD.
  • Exploring the impact of point cloud density on the digitising process in AutoCAD.
  • Considerations for digitising from point cloud data and standard editing operations for point clouds in AutoCAD.
• Checking and Validation:
  • A step-by-step guide on how to check and validate point cloud data in AutoCAD and other software like Recap before commencing digitisation.
• Point Cloud Manipulation:
  • Exploring AutoCAD tools for working with and manipulating point cloud data to facilitate ease of digitising.
• Digitising from Point Cloud Data:
  • Techniques for extracting and digitising geometry from point cloud data.
  • Step-by-step instructions on how to produce floor plans, elevations, topography, and 2D drawings from point cloud data.
  • Management of geometry extraction using AutoCAD tools and techniques to produce clean drawings for final deliverables.
• Drawing Quality Checking and Delivery:
  • Techniques for quality checking to ensure that extracted 2D drawings are accurate and meet required standards.
  • Exploration of both manual and automated annotation techniques in AutoCAD.

Please download the AutoCAD Point Cloud Essentials course overview to find out more

This course can also form an optional 3rd day of the 2 day AutoCAD course

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This course is designed for junior surveyors, engineers and personnel in the surveying and construction industry.

It provides a good grounding in the principles and practical application of levelling for both Topographical Survey and for Setting Out.

The course is aimed at students with little or no previous experience of using levelling equipment.

The course includes the observing, calculation and checking of levelling runs using the ‘Height of Collimation’ method of booking as well as checking the equipment.

Field practical exercises are used to back up the theory learned in the classroom.

An automatic optical level, manually booked is used for all exercises.

A basic knowledge of the use of calculators for addition/subtraction, multiplication/division and square roots prior to coming on the course would be an advantage.

Summary of main topics covered by the course:

• Introduction and Health and Safety (when using a level & staff)
• Background to levelling and levelling theory
• Reading the staff and booking the readings
• Class exercise; Booking and reducing levelling by Height of collimation
• Practical field levelling exercise – Practice in reading and booking
• Sources of error in levelling and acceptable closures
• Two peg test and adjustment of the instrument theory
• Two peg test field practical – Instrument check
• Use of Intermediate sights & Inverted readings – Theory
• Practical field levelling exercise practical covering topo detail levelling
• Using Benchmarks.
• Setting out levels for Site datum – (Establishing a TBM)
• Settling out levels for profiles – Theory & Practical exercise
• Rise and fall booking theory (overview)
• Use of digital levels (overview)
• Review, questions and close

At the end of the course students receive a certificate of attendance/completion and can follow this with the 3 day total station course to further develop their knowledge and skills.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 2 Day Levelling

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post Levelling – Surveying & Setting Out appeared first on The Survey School.

This course is designed for junior surveyors, engineers and personnel in the surveying and construction profession.

It gives a good grounding in how to use modern total stations and is aimed at new recruits or staff who have little or no experience of using modern total stations.

Please Note:  – a separate 2 day levelling course is also available.

The course covers best practice in the use of total stations for both basic detail surveying and setting out and is applicable to candidates working in either the surveying or the construction industries.  Practical exercises back up the theory learned in the classroom.

The Total Station will be used to measure angles and distances, also to store measurements and co-ordinates to be downloaded to a computer for mapping, and checking against required measurements.  The course is taught with a Manual (Non Robotic) instrument, to give students confidence in accurate pointing.

Hand calculations are kept to a minimum, but a knowledge of mathematics and the use of the scientific calculator prior to coming on the course would be an advantage.

Summary of main topics covered by the course:

• Introduction and Health & Safety (Using a total station)
• Horizontal and vertical angles Total station – angle measurement theory
• Total station – distance measurement theory
• Total station – setting up and using the instrument and Target.
• Practical field exercise familiarising with the Total Station
• Menu system – creating a job – entering co-ordinates
• Slope, horizontal distances and Height Difference Reduction (in the Instrument)
• Practical field exercise measuring targets with the Total Station
• Prism constants and atmospheric settings and Non Prism reflector less measurements
• Introduction to co-ordinates and how to establish a new station from a base line.
• Using known stations, and back sights, for orientation,
• Observing, downloading and plotting of field surveyed points – Field exercise
• Resection and free-station Programs
• Menu system – setting out
• Field practice setting out by co-ordinates
• Menu system – overview of other functions (such as reference line, remote height, tie distance and area.)
• Review, questions and close

At the end of the course students receive a certificate of attendance/completion.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 3 Day Total Stations

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post Total Stations – Surveying & Setting Out appeared first on The Survey School.

This course is designed to give surveyors and engineers a good grounding in the principles and practical application of site surveying, using a total station and a level and staff.  (Note GNSS practical usage is not a part of this course).

The course is aimed at the assistant or junior surveyor who is starting to carry out their own small surveys and requires more theoretical and practical training in ‘best practice’.

The course assumes that the student either has completed the Survey School’s 2 day levelling and 3 day Total Station courses or has experience of using both level and total station equipment.

Knowledge of mathematics and the use of the scientific calculator prior to coming on the course would be an advantage. The course includes calculation of co-ordinates and bearings and distances to enable the surveyor to establish and survey points of detail or check survey control together with the calculation and the adjustment of traverses.

The Total Station functions used include setting up the instrument for a job, orientation by known points, resection and the detail surveying programs in the instrument.

Practical exercises are used to back up the theory learned in the classroom. One of the main aims of this course is to teach how to establish control by traversing for topographical surveys.

Summary of main topics covered by the course:

• Introduction and Safe working on site
• Calculations – co-ordinates, angles, bearings, and basic trigonometry using a scientific calculator
•  Principles of survey control and sighting of control stations
•  Observing, booking and reducing, Horizontal angles, vertical angles and slope distances.
•  Practical surveying exercises – using a level and a total station
•  Resection – using a total station function
•  Traversing and Traverse calculations
•  Principles of traverse adjustment
•  Detail mapping using feature codes – on a total station
•  Uploading and Downloading of data – and processing in specialist Survey Software
•  Contouring from observed spot heights using specialist Survey Software
•  Cross Sections from field observations drawn in specialist Survey Software
•  Using some of the other total station functions such as Area calculation tie distance and remote height.
•  Required precision of observations and relation of detail to map scale (RICS spec)
•  The Ordnance Survey National Grid system and scale factor awareness
•  Review, questions and close

At the end of the course students receive a certificate of attendance/completion.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 5 Day Surveying Course

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post 5 Day Surveying Course appeared first on The Survey School.

This course, run in association with Technical BIM Studio, takes a surveyor from having captured data on site, whether that be from laser scanning or measured survey and introducing such data into Revit, such that 3D models and 2D outputs can be generated, annotated and presented.

Course Summary

• A brief introduction to Revit.
• Revit’s user interface.
• Project setup.
• Point cloud data / measured survey data into Revit.
• Coordinate system.
• Modelling principles.
• Importing Survey data /Point cloud data into Revit
• Setting up Coordinates and Levels
• Controlling Object visibility
• Views, their creation, types and manipulation.
• Phasing
• Create Architectural, Structural and MEP elements from the Survey data/point cloud data
• Model Accuracy, Tolerance and Validation techniques
• Topography modelling.
• Annotation & dimensioning.
• Sheets & view placement
• Data export.

Each course will include up to 5 hours* (TSA member) & 2 hours* (non-member) post-course telephone technical support per attendee.

*Telephone technical support – Each support request can take up to 1 hour or longer. However, if the inquiry can be resolved in less than one hour this will count as 1 hour’s support.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 2-Day Reality Capture – Revit Fundamentals

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post Reality Capture – Revit Fundamentals appeared first on The Survey School.

This training is for currently practising geospatial professionals.

The course offers a combination of background information and hands-on experience using a variety of functions presented by GNSS technology. The material is presented using a combination of Power Point presentation, discussions and practical workshops to capture the individual learning preferences of the participants.

1.    Coordinate System

To make any sense of the GNSS technology in use, an understanding of various coordinate systems is necessary. For example, what is WGS84 of ERTF89 and how does this relate to National Grid or any other map projection? Why do we have map projections anyway? These are some of the questions that will be answered in a simple to understand way.

2.    How does it work?

Here we go slightly beyond the “switching on of the Receiver” process and provide some background information on how the system works using GPS as the guiding technology. Once those workings become clear it is a simple step towards understanding certain operations and settings that are necessary to obtain the correct answers from the system.

3.    Kinematic Surveys

In this part we look more closely at the available Controller software and how to use the various functions. This part is mostly practical: exploring, using the example of Network RTK, how to carry out a Site Calibration or Localisation; how to perform a topographic survey and how to use the setting out functions. Performing Post Processing Kinematic surveys will also be covered.

4.    Static Surveys and Post Processing

A brief look at some processing software will enable the participants to download and process survey data, create files for uploading setting out data to the controller and briefly explore the static processing capability of the office software.

At the end of the course participants will receive all course material in a folder together with a certificate of completion.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: 2 Day GNSS Course

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post GNSS appeared first on The Survey School.

Course Agenda

Day 1

• Overview of utility networks – Operatives will learn about utility networks i.e. “from
  power station to plug”. Explanation on how electricity/gas/water/communication etc.,
  gets to our homes/businesses. Different cable/pipe types, materials, connectivity etc.
  Classroom.
• Surveying Methodology & Types – How to undertake a typical utility survey, where to
  start and why, incorporating PAS 128 process flowchart & TSA Guidance Notes for
  Utility Surveys – Classroom.
• Utility (STAT’s) Plans – Conventions, variations, abbreviations & meanings –
  Operatives will study a wide variety of different plans. PAS 128 Survey Type D will be
  discussed – Classroom.
• Locating without a locator – Operatives will draw the assumed route of buried services
  onto a blank base plan & compare their findings with STATs plans – Site/Classroom.

Day 2

• Operatives will undertake a PAS 128 Survey Type C Site Reconnaissance/TSA Utility
  Survey Level 2 – Site/Classroom
• Basic Electrical Theory – Operatives will learn about electrical circuits with a “back to
  basics” practical approach using bulbs, wires, batteries, magnets etc – Classroom.
• Electromagnetic (EM) Theory – Understanding how an EM locator works, how to and
  where to apply a signal, limitations etc – Classroom
• Legislation/Health & Safety requirements/implications – Very brief overview of HSG47
  Classroom.

Day 3

• Radiodetection RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro specific information – Understanding
  correct use/application of different frequencies, distorted magnetic fields, depth,
  current, Current Direction CD (Signal Direction SD), deep sonde location technique,
  Passive signals/limitations etc – Classroom.
• Operatives will learn PAS 128 Detection Methods (Normative) Methods M1 – M4
  EML/TSA Survey Level 3 EML – Classroom/Site.
• Radiodetection RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro Operation – Operatives will use EML
  in active & passive modes to locate buried services at the same survey site to allow
  comparison between “Locating without a locator”, Stats Plans and actual findings –
  Site.

Day 4

• Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) Theory – Operatives will learn the theory of how
  GPR works, what the settings & controls do, different ground conditions and view
  “real world” examples – Classroom.
• Operatives will learn PAS 128 Detection Methods (Normative) Methods M1 – M4
  EML/TSA Survey Level 3 GPR (Non Post Processing) – Classroom/Site.
• Ground Penetrating Radar Operation – Operatives will use the GPR to locate a variety
  of buried utilities in different situations – Site.

Day 5

• Practical Operational Test – Two man team to survey small site area without STATs
  plans but using all methods learned including – “Locating without a locator”, Surveying
  Methodology, RD4000/8000/v-Loc Pro & GPR, providing rough sketch of locations &
  depths. Operatives will show compliance with PAS 128 indicating quality level B1 – B4
  (non post processing).
• Use of equipment and methodologies will be observed and proof of location will be
  demonstrated to the examiner(s). Any buried utilities not located which the
  examiner(s) can prove was locatable will equate to a 5% reduction for each
  occurrence in overall exam score – Site.
• Written Exam – Operatives will sit a written exam under exam conditions. The exam
  will include a combination of graphical and written questions – An overall pass mark of
  70% is required to successfully complete the course – Classroom.
  Course requirements:
• Appropriate PPE for working in quiet roads & footpaths.
• Specific Electromagnetic (EM/EML) &/or GPR equipment as required (Radiodetection
  RD4000/8000, Vivax v-Loc Pro & Mala Easy Locator will available for operatives to
  use on site).
• Operatives may prefer to use their own/other manufacturer’s equipment,
  please ensure they bring this equipment with them.

Additional:

Attendees can take the Level 3 certificate in Utility Mapping and Surveying (QCF) alongside this (this is an additional fee for non-TSA Members).

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: Utility Mapping Sygma Five Day Course

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post Utility Mapping Course appeared first on The Survey School.

This course is designed to give engineering graduates and personnel already working in the construction profession experience in the principles, calculations and practical application of site setting-out required for more complex setting-out conditions. 

The week-long training gives insight into the application of both a level and staff and a total station such that the best methods are used for a variety of problems and complements the TSA Surveying Course Block 5.

Emphasis is put on making use of the many built-in functions of the Total Station.  Supporting survey software and spreadsheets are also used to speed up operation and efficiency on the site.  Students are given instruction on how any setting out might be checked and what can be done to guard against errors.

It is assumed that the delegates will have either completed our 2 day levelling and 3 day total station courses or have had at least six month’s site setting-out experience and be fully conversant with the use of the level and total station.

The delegate will be expected to have a good grasp of mathematics, and be familiar with their pocket calculator.  The course includes calculation of gradients, co-ordinates, bearings and distances to enable the engineer to calculate or check the required setting-out points from the given drawings.

Summary of main topics covered by the course:

• Introduction & Health and safety (using the equipment on site)
• Calculator functions, trigonometry, sine, cosine tangent and the use of Pythagoras’s theorem, to calculate bearing and distances.
• Levelling for control Measurement and datum’s.
• The Total Station – familiarisation instrument settings, prism constant and atmospheric corrections.  Setting up jobs, storing co-ordinates
• Awareness of instrument collimation error and knowing its effect
• Transfer of data between computer and instrument for setting out in the field
• Using Survey Drawing software and spreadsheets to help input data and check Setting out of as built points
• The Total Station – using the free-station (resection) and principles of site control
• Setting out by bearing and distance
• Setting out with the efficient use of the Reference Line
• Setting out by co-ordinates
• Calculation of gradients and setting out of drainage profiles
• Calculation of road cross-sections and setting-out batter-boards
• Setting out horizontal circular curves –Basic calculations
• Using the Ref Arc program for setting and checking radial arrays of points
• Course Review, questions and close.

At the end of the course students, receive a certificate of completion/attendance.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: Setting Out for Engineering Surveying

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post Setting Out for Engineering Surveying appeared first on The Survey School.

Dates: On Demand – Please contact for details

Course Venues:

Sygma Solutions, Hindley Business Centre., Platt Ln, Hindley, Wigan WN2 3PA

The Survey School, Waterworks Road, Worcester Wr1 3EZ

Please note: To attend this course operatives will ideally have already attended one of the Sygma Solutions Module 1 Easy Locator training days or have a good understanding of the Easy Locator functions and operation.

Course Format – Morning

• Introductions
• Operatives will be taken to site with GPR equipment to collect data for post processing
• Setting up a base line
• Setting up the GPR with GPS
• Setting up a grid system
• Planning the data collection
• Operatives will collect data using a base line
• Operatives will collect data using GPS

Course Format – Afternoon

• What is Processing
• Filtering of Data – Explanation of different Filters
• Importing the data
• Processing the data
• Applying o Hyperbola fitting
• Setting markers
• Google maps/earth
• Exporting to CAD

Course Requirements

• Operatives must have appropriate PPE to comply with National & Company Health & Safety requirements.

Course Timings

Course timings remain fluid, but the course duration is one day, with a suggested start time of 09.00 and finish time of approximately 15.00 with appropriate breaks.

Book your place now by emailing us at office@surveyschool.org.uk or ringing on 01905 26329.

Download the course overview: Course Overview – GPR Post Processing

Terms and conditions: TSA Short course Terms and Conditions

The post GPR Post Processing (MALÅ users) appeared first on The Survey School.