FIELD WORK NO.

2
TAPING ON LEVEL AND ON UNEVEN GROUND

Presented to

School of Civil, Environmental, and Geological Engineering

Intramuros Manila

In partial fulfillment of the requirements for the course

CE120-05F Fundamentals of Surveying

By

Aguilar, Marc Zachary C.

Andalis, Kaela Sophia S.

Arboleda, Vlado Vlademier P.

Bao, Patrick Andrey T.

Bautro, Lyka Rose N.

Borromeo, Cloyd Emzon P.

Bulusan Jr., Manny P.

to

Engr. Sheendoulle Fabregas

INTRODUCTION

The field of surveying is essential and essential to the development of our surrounding

physical environment. It entails the exact measurement and mapping of terrain, buildings, and

other surface-level components. In the field of surveying, "taping," which may be used on both

flat and uneven ground, is one of the primary methods for precisely measuring distances. A flexible

measuring tape, also referred to as a surveyor's tape, is used in the taping method to calculate the

separation between two points. Taping is a tool that surveyors employ in a variety of situations,

from setting down property lines and construction sites to identifying topographical characteristics

and evaluating land for development. Taping is highly adaptable because it may be used on a

variety of terrains, whether the ground is smooth and flat or rocky and undulating. We will examine

the guiding concepts and methods of taping on both level and uneven ground in this introduction

to the surveying field. We will look into the tools and processes used, the accuracy it provides, and

its importance in ensuring precise distance measurements for numerous engineering, building, and

land management applications. Understanding the fundamentals of taping in various terrain types

is essential to understanding the vital role surveying plays in contemporary society, whether you

are starting a career in surveying, organizing a construction project, or simply interested in the art

of measuring the world around us.

OBJECTIVES

The objectives of this fieldwork are the following:

• To develop skills in measuring distances on a flat, stable surface where the measuring

tape is consistently supported by the ground.

• To develop skills inf measuring distances on an uneven terrain where the tape is solely

anchored at its ends.

INSTRUMENTS

1. 2 Range Poles

- Utilized for the purpose of temporarily marking points that must be visible from a

distance. It is also used to mark straight lines on the field.

- Used to have an aligned and straightened taping process.

Figure 1.1: Range Poles

2. Chalk (For Pavements)

- Used to mark points as well as long straight lines on flat surfaces.

- Used to mark end points called points A and B.

Figure 1.2: Chalk

3. 2 Plumb Bobs

- A pointed weight tied to the end of a string that is used to locate a vertical reference

line known as a plumb.

 Figure 1.3: Plumb Bobs

4. 50 Meter Tape

- Utilized for measuring distances up to 50 meters in length

- Used to measure the length of the course from point A to point B.

Figure 1.4: 50 Meter Tape

METHODOLOGY

The field work was divided into two distinct types of practice, namely "Taping on a plain

level ground" and "Taping on unlevel ground".

A. Taping on a plain level ground

Figure 2.1:
 The students began the first part of the field work by marking points A and B using range

poles. The students commenced their measurement using a meter tape and a chalk to put a pin on

where they measured 5 meters, commencing from the origin at 0 meters (Point A), and proceeded

to measure a distance of 5 meters until they reached the final point.

In order to determine their progress towards the endpoint, students were advised to keep

track of the number of 5-meter intervals they have traversed while measuring. It is important to

maintain focus and ensure precise measurements in order to minimize errors and effectively

complete the task at hand. The students repeated this process until they reached the designated

termination point, collecting data regarding the extent to which the tape has traversed a distance

of 5 meters prior to reaching point B, also known as its end point.

B. Taping on uneven ground

FIGURE 1.2
In the second part of the field work, the participants utilized a meter tape to measure a

distance of 5 meters on the ground at an elevated position. In order to ensure the effective execution

of the task, the students positioned two range poles in a straight and aligned manner between points

A and B. This preventative measure is crucial in order to minimize errors and get optimal results.
 After that, the students began their measurement from the origin point A, denoted as 0

meters, by employing a meter tape and two plumb bobs to reach a distance of 5 meters. Students

utilized two plumb bobs in order to determine distances above the ground. Plumb bobs are a useful

tool for pupils to accurately measure distances and maintain consistent pacing throughout

measurements. The process involved conducting multiple trials, followed by data collection by the

students. After that, the students proceeded to compute the error and analyze the acquired data.

COMPUTATIONS

A. TAPING ON LEVEL GROUND

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = (𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑠)(10) + 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑖𝑛𝑠

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = (0)(10) + (9)
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = 9
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒 = (𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠)(𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ) + 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒

Trial 1
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = (9)(5 𝑚) + (1.6 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = 46.6 𝑚

Trial 2
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐵𝐴 = (9)(5 𝑚) + (1.32 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐵𝐴 = 46.32 𝑚

Trial 3
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = (9)(5 𝑚) + (1.4 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = 46.4 𝑚

∑ 𝐶𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 =
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑠
46.6 𝑚 + 46.32 𝑚 + 46.4 𝑚
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 =
3
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 46.44 𝑚
 B. TAPING ON AN IRREGULAR GROUND

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = (𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑙𝑙𝑖𝑒𝑠)(10) + 𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑃𝑖𝑛𝑠

𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = (0)(10) + (7)
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠 = 7
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒 = (𝑁𝑜. 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ𝑠)(𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑜𝑛𝑒 𝑡𝑎𝑝𝑒𝑙𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ) + 𝑃𝑎𝑟𝑡𝑖𝑎𝑙 𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑎𝑝𝑒

Trial 1
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = (7)(5 𝑚) + (1.52 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = 36.52 𝑚

Trial 2
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐵𝐴 = (9)(5 𝑚) + (1.46 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐵𝐴 = 36.46 𝑚

Trial 3
𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = (9)(5 𝑚) + (1.36 𝑚)

𝐿𝑒𝑛𝑔𝑡ℎ 𝑜𝑓 𝑡ℎ𝑒 𝐶𝑜𝑢𝑟𝑠𝑒𝐴𝐵 = 36.36 𝑚

∑ 𝐶𝑜𝑚𝑝𝑢𝑡𝑒𝑑 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 =
𝑁𝑢𝑚𝑏𝑒𝑟 𝑜𝑓 𝑇𝑟𝑖𝑎𝑙𝑠
36.52 𝑚 + 36.46 𝑚 + 36.36 𝑚
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 =
3
𝑀𝑒𝑎𝑛 𝐷𝑖𝑠𝑡𝑎𝑛𝑐𝑒 = 36.45 𝑚

QUESTION AND ANSWER

1. What are the different sources of taping errors?

- Measuring distances using a tape measure, a fundamental surveying technique, appears

straightforward but can be affected by various errors. These errors stem from factors

such as tape length discrepancies, temperature variations affecting tape materials,

tension applied during measurements, tape sagging, uneven terrain slopes, and changes

in mean sea level. Minor variations in tape length can introduce systematic errors.

Temperature fluctuations can cause tape expansion or contraction, leading to inaccurate

 measurements. Incorrect tension can either overestimate or underestimate distances.

Terrain slopes may disrupt horizontal measurements, and variations in mean sea level

can impact measurements over extended distances. Surveyors must be vigilant about

these potential errors and employ correction methods to enhance distance measurement

accuracy.

2. Discuss the different ways to lessen them or fully eliminate taping errors.

- Ensuring precision in surveying by reducing or eradicating errors in tape measurements

is crucial. Below are various methods to minimize or eliminate these inaccuracies:

- Employ High-Quality Tapes - Invest in top-tier steel or fiberglass tapes known for their

durability and resistance to stretching and wear over time.

- Calibration - Regularly calibrate your tape to guarantee it consistently reflects the true

unit length accurately.

- Proper Tape Handling - Handle the tape meticulously to prevent introducing errors such

as kinks, knots, or twists. Store the tape appropriately to minimize wear and potential

damage.

- Tension Control - Maintain a uniform tension on the tape during measurements, and

consider using tensioning devices to facilitate this process.

- Alignment and Positioning - Ensure precise alignment of the tape with the surveyed

line or axis, employing aids like plumb bobs when necessary. Maintain the tape at a

constant elevation above the ground and level when measuring over uneven terrain.

- Multiple Trials - Conduct multiple measurements of the same distance using different

setups and compare the results to identify and rectify errors.

 - Utilize Surveying Equipment - Enhance measurement accuracy by incorporating

surveying tools like leveling instruments, theodolites, or total stations.

- Environmental Considerations - Choose favorable weather conditions for surveying

while avoiding extreme weather that may impact the properties of the tape. Employ

windbreaks or wind-resistant tape to shield against wind interference.

- Documentation - Thoroughly document all measurements, recording conditions, and

any deviations from standard procedures. This documentation aids in identifying and

addressing errors.

3. What is the total length of the course XY if the rear tape-man holds exactly holds 9 pebbles

and 3 pins after measuring the course XY? Assume that one tape length is equivalent to

30m.

No. of tallies = No. of pebbles

No. of tallies = 9

No. of tapelengths = (No. of tallies)*10 + No. of pins

No. of tapelengths = (9)*10 + 3

No. of tapelengths = 90 +3

No. of tapelengths = 93

Length of the XY course = (No. of tapelengths)(length of one tapelength) + partial length

of tape

Length of the XY course = (93)(30m) + 0m

Length of the XY course = 2,790 m

FINAL DATA SHEET

FINAL DATA SHEET

FIELD WORK 2 TAPING ON LEVEL AND ON UNEVEN GROUND
DATE: 09/02/2023 GROUP NO.: 1
TIME: 12:00 pm – 9:00 pm LOCATION: Mapua University Intramuros
WEATHER: Rainy PROFESSOR: Mr. Sheendoulle Fabregas

A. TAPING ON LEVEL GROUND

TRIAL LINE NUMBER NUMBER PARTIAL TAPE COMPUTED MEAN
OF TALLY OF PINS LENGTH (M) DISTANCE DISTANCE
(M) (M)
1 AB 0 9 1.6 46.6
2 BA 0 9 1.32 46.32 46.44
3 AB 0 9 1.4 46.4

B. TAPING ON AN IRREGULAR GROUND

TRIAL LINE NUMBER NUMBER PARTIAL TAPE COMPUTED MEAN
OF TALLY OF PINS LENGTH (M) DISTANCE DISTANCE
(M) (M)
1 AB 0 7 1.52 36.52
2 BA 0 7 1.46 36.46 36.45
3 AB 0 7 1.36 36.36

C. SKETCH
TAPING ON LEVEL GROUND [TRIAL 1 - AB]

TAPING ON LEVEL GROUND [TRIAL 2 - BA]

 TAPING ON AN IRREGULAR GROUND [TRIAL 1 – AB]

TAPING ON AN IRREGULAR GROUND [TRIAL 2 – BA]

CONCLUSION

In this fieldwork, the group was tasked to calculate the straight line distance between two

points A and B through the use of the surveying method of taping. This fieldwork was conducted

twice wherein the group initially measured the distance between two points of an even ground

level and then one of uneven ground level. The group utilized a variety of equipment namely (1)

Range Poles (2) Chalk (3) Plumb Bobs (4) 50 meter tape. The group, using the stated instruments,

measured the distance between the two points through segmenting the distances with a tape

measure of 5 meters. For the uneven terrain, the group continued with the technique of segmenting

the distances, however this time in tandem with the plumb bobs. The recorded values for each

terrain were then utilized in the formulas (1) “Number of Tape Lengths= (No. of

Tallies)(10)+Number of Pins (2) Course Length = (No. of Tape Lengths)(Length of one Tape

Length) + Partial Length of tape” wherein the mean distance for both terrains were then found.

In conclusion, the group was able to determine the mean distances for points A and B in

both even and uneven terrain, which were 46.44 meters and 36.45 meters respectively. This

fieldwork aided in the further enhancement of the skills of each member in the utilization of
integral surveying instruments from previous fieldworks and has even introduced a new type of

device and technique which in this case would be the plumb bob utilized in the measurement of

the mean distances in uneven terrain and the technique of taping, which was employed in the

measurement of the mean distances of both terrains. The group was also introduced to a new

technique of measThe field work has furthered the importance for the knowledge and mastery of

these surveying techniques.

The group advises maintaining the highest level of precision and accuracy when

documenting measurements to achieve the minimal possible percentage of errors. By doing so, it

minimizes the possibility of any systemic errors to occur during the fieldwork.

REFERENCES

Davis, R. E., & Foote, F. S. (2002). Surveying: Theory and Practice. McGraw-Hill Education.

Kavanagh, B. F. (2017). Surveying: Principles and Applications. Pearson.

Moffitt, F. H., & Bossler, J. D. (2015). Elementary Surveying: An Introduction to Geomatics.

Pearson.