Free Station Method of Leveling

Abstract

A new method of leveling, suitable for high-precision industrial applications, is described. The observation procedure involves only minor modifications to the standard observation procedure for precise leveling. The analysis procedure is based on a simple linear least-squares adjustment model. Two applications of the method are given, one in which the usual type of precise leveling equipment is used and one in which modern electronic digital leveling equipment is used. Standard deviations of point elevations in these applications are on the order of 0.1 mm or greater.