Performing a building layout using the coordinate method with a Total Station is a common lab or fieldwork exercise in surveying and civil engineering. This method involves transferring design coordinates (from plans or drawings) to the field to mark out exact points for construction.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to perform this lab:

🧭 Objective:

To set out the layout of a building using the coordinate method with the help of a Total Station.

🧰 Instruments & Materials Needed:

• Total Station (properly calibrated)
• Tripod
• Reflecting Prism (or Prism Pole)
• Field Book or Data Collector
• Pegs or markers (for setting out points)
• Survey drawing with coordinates (in local or grid system)

📐 Theory:

The coordinate method involves setting out points using known coordinates (Easting, Northing, Elevation). Total Station is used to locate these points in the field based on angle and distance measurements from a known reference point.

🧪 Procedure:

1. Reconnaissance & Preparation:

• Study the building plan and identify the coordinates of major corners or axes.
• Choose a suitable location for the instrument setup (reference station).
• Ensure all known points (e.g., benchmark or control stations) are visible from this setup.

2. Set Up the Total Station:

• Fix the Total Station on a tripod over a known point (station with known coordinates).
• Use plumb bob or optical plummet to center exactly over the point.
• Level the instrument using foot screws and the circular bubble.
• Input the instrument station coordinates (Easting, Northing, Elevation) into the Total Station.

3. Orientation:

• Sight a back sight point with known coordinates to establish orientation.
• Enter the coordinates of the back sight point.
• Lock orientation by measuring the horizontal angle to the back sight.

4. Setting Out Coordinates:

For each building corner (or key point):

• Input the coordinates (E, N) of the point to be set out.
• Use “Stakeout” or “Set out” mode on the Total Station.
• The display will guide you:
  • ΔE/ΔN or Left/Right and Forward/Back guidance.
  • Move the prism until the reading becomes zero or within acceptable tolerance.
• Mark the location with a peg or stake.

5. Repeat for All Points:

• Stake out all the necessary points (e.g., corners of the building).
• Double-check by measuring between points to verify dimensions.

6. Check and Record:

• Once all points are set, cross-check by measuring diagonals and sides.
• Record actual field positions in your field book.

✅ Precautions:

• Ensure the Total Station is properly leveled and centered.
• Use correct and consistent coordinate system.
• Avoid errors due to refraction or instrument setup.
• Double-check angles and distances before marking.

📓 Result:

The building layout has been successfully transferred from the coordinate system in the plan to the actual site using the Total Station.

Stakeout in Surveying.

Stakeout means marking the points that are shown on the drawing in an actual place. This is also called layout. In total station Surveying language, it’s called S-O. In stakeout we need to mark the point showing on the plan, that points may be for excavation or for leveling purposes.

Importance of Stakeout (S-O).

Layout is important for several reasons.
Accuracy.
The S-O ensures that the points or features specified in the survey data or design plans are accurately located on the ground.
Alignment and Layout.
S-O helps align structures, roads, utilities, and other elements according to the desired design or layout. It ensures that buildings are correctly positioned, roads are properly aligned, and utilities are accurately installed, among other applications.
Construction Efficiency.
By marking the precise positions of points on the ground, S-O enables construction workers to work more efficiently. They can refer to the markers as visual guides for setting up equipment, placing foundations, erecting structures, and implementing other construction activities. It minimizes guesswork, reduces rework, and promotes smoother construction processes.
Legal Boundaries.
layout is crucial for boundary surveys, where accurate positioning of property lines is required. It helps establish and verify legal boundaries, which is important for property owners, land developers, and land surveyors in ensuring property rights and resolving disputes.
Quality Control.
Layout allows for on-site verification and quality control during construction. By comparing the staked points to the design plans or survey data, construction professionals can check for any deviations or errors early in the process. This helps identify and rectify issues promptly, ensuring that the project meets the required standards and specifications.

Stakeout using Total Station.

Layout with a total station is the process of using an accurate instrument to locate and mark correct points on the ground based on their coordinates. It involves surveying reference points, setting up the total station, inserting the coordinates, following its guidance to reach the points, marking them, and verifying accuracy. This is used in construction and surveying to ensure the accurate execution of plans.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a layout in total station is a unique technique used by the surveyors to gather information about coordinates and by using these coordinates to make a real map. Successful stakeouts require patience, attention to detail, and effective teamwork.