DCC20063 – ENGINEERING SURVEY

LAB REPORT 4: CURVE

CONTENT PAGE
COVER PAGE
TABLE OF CONTENT 2
INTRODUCTION 3-4
2) DETAILS OF CURVE 5
2.1 Site Detail (with layout)
2.2 Theory of Curve
2.3 Objectives 6
2.4 Equipment and Function (with photos) 7 - 11
2.5 Procedure of Curve 12
2.6 Precautions of Curve 13
3)DATA & RESULTS 14 - 15
Calculation: Rankine’s method
DISCUSSIONS / CONCLUSIONS / SUGGESTIONS 16
4.1. Discussion
4.2. Conclusion 17
5. APPENDIX / REFERENCES 18

TABLE OF CONTENT
 INTRODUCTION
Curves are not only the fundamental geometric elements, but they give us various
information on shapes. In CAD/CAM, free-form curves have to mathematically defined or
extracted so that their properties can be controlled by the computer. Accordingly, knowledge
of the fundamentals of the differential geometry of curves is required to apply geometry to
practical problems and it also gives the concepts and methods needed to understand the
theory of surfaces which is explained in the next two chapters [1]. The curves are usually
expressed in parametric forms, and arc length of the curve is used for the parameter in
theoretical treatments because of its simplicity of expression, but for practical uses the
parameter is changed from arc length s to a more manageable variable parameter t which
monotonically increases with arc length. When treating interference problems of curves or
surfaces, the curves expressed in implicit forms are sometimes convenient in numerical
calculations or theoretical analysis. Therefore, we introduce a method of converting from a
parametric form to an implicit one in the last section.
Classification of Curves:
(i) Simple
(ii) Compound
(iii) Reverse
(iv) Transition Curve

(i) Simple Curve:

A simple curve consists of a single arc of a circle connecting two straights. It has curve is a
curve that does not cross itself.

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(ii) Compound Curve:
A curve made up of two or more circular arcs of successively shorter or longer radii, joined
tangentially without reversal of curvature, and used on some railroad tracks and highways as
an easement curve to provide a less abrupt transition from tangent to full curve or vice versa.

(iii) Reverse (or Serpentine) Curve:

Reverse curves are used when the straights arc parallel or intersect at a very small angle.
They are commonly used in railway sidings and sometimes on railway tracks and roads
meant for low speeds. They should be avoided as far as possible on main railway lines and
highways where speeds are necessarily high.

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(iv) Transition Curve:

A transition curve may be defined as a curve of varying radius of infinity at tangent point to a
design circular curve radius provided in between the straight and circular path in order that
the centrifugal force was gradual. This is also known as easement curve.

DETAILS OF CURVE
2.1 Site Detail (with layout)

we have done field work involving curves on the football field of Tuanku Sultanah Bahiyah
Polytechnic. The data used when doing the work is the result of the calculation of deflection
angle given by Mrs. Saedatul.

2.2 Theory of Curve

Curves are regular bends provided in the lines of communication like roads, railways etc
and also in canals to bring about the gradual change of direction. They are also used in the
vertical plane at all changes of grade to avoid the abrupt change of grade at the apex.
Curves provided in the horizontal plane to have the gradual change in direction are known as
Horizontal curves, whereas those provided in the vertical plane to obtain the gradual change
in grade are known as vertical curves. Curves are laid out on the ground along the centre line
of the work. They may be circular or parabolic.

2.3 Objectives
• To differentiate between the different types of horizontal and circular curves.
• To understand the terminology and geometry of circular curves
• To calculate through chainage values along the centre lines of circular curves.
• Design curves of constant radii to join straight section of for example a road or
railway.

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 • Set out the centrelines of circular curves.
• To avoid abrupt change in direction and to make the vehicle move safely and
smoothly.

2.4 Equipment and Functions (with photos)

Theodolite

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Theodolite is a precision optical instrument for measuring angles between designated visible
points in the horizontal and vertical planes. It consists of a moveable telescope mounted so it
can rotate around horizontal and vertical axes and provide angular readouts. These indicate
the orientation of the telescope and are used to relate the first point sighted through the
telescope to subsequent sightings of other points from the same theodolite position. These
angles can be measured with accuracies down to microradians or seconds of arc. From these
readings a plan can be drawn or objects can be positioned in accordance with an existing
plan. The modern theodolite has evolved into what is known as a total station where angles
and distances are measured electronically and are read directly to computer memory.

Tripod

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A tripod stand is a device used to support any one a number of surveying instruments, such as
theodolites, total stations, level or transits. There are two different kinds of tripods such as
adjustable-leg tripods and fixed tripods. For conducting this fieldwork, we are using
adjustable-leg tripods. A tripod is made up of three legs, each with metal points called shoes
and a head which the theodolite or other levelling device attached. Adjustable-leg tripods are
the more common of the two in the construction world, especially outdoors because of
generally uneven terrain. The adjustable- leg tripod is easier to set up on uneven ground
because each leg can be adjusted to exactly the height needed level, even on a very steep
slope. The adjustable-leg tripod is also easy to transport due to having retractable legs.

Ranging pole

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A ranging rod is a surveying instrument used for marking the position of stations and for
sightings of those stations, as well as for ranging straight lines. Initially these were made of
light, thin and straight bamboo or seasoned wood such as teak, pine or deodar. They were
shod with iron at the bottom and surmounted with a flag about 250 mm square in size.
Nowadays they are made of wood, metal or fibreglass. The rods are usually about 30 mm in
diameter and 2 m or 3 m long, painted with alternating bands, such as red and white and
yellow or black and white in lengths of 200 mm, 500 mm, or one foot. These colours are used
so that the rod can be properly sighted in case of long distance or bad weather. Ranging rods
of greater length 3 to 6 m are called ranging or range poles and are used for very long survey
lines. Another type of ranging rod is known as an offset rod which has no flag at the top. It is
used for measuring small offsets from the survey line when the work is of an ordinary nature.

Chain pin

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A chaining pin (also called a taping arrow) is a metal pin about 1 ft long. It has a circular eye
at one end and a point for pushing it into the ground at the other (fig. 11-47). These pins
come in sets of 11 pins, carried on a wire ring passed through the eyes in the pins or in a
sheath called a quiver. Chaining pins can be used for the temporary marking of points in a
great variety of situations, but they are used most frequently to keep count of tape
increments in the chaining of long distances.

Measurement tape

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Synthetic tapes used in Land Surveying are made of glass fibers coated with PVC. These are
light in weight and flexible. They are available in lengths of 5m, 10m, 20m, 30m, and 50m.
Synthetic tapes may stretch when subjected to tension. Hence, these are not suitable for
accurate surveying works. However, synthetic tapes are recommended in place of steel tapes
where it is essential to take measurements in the vicinity of electric fences and railway lines,
etc. Tapes are used in surveying to measure horizontal, vertical, and slope distances. They
may be made of a ribbon or a band of steel, an alloy of steel, cloth reinforced with metal, or
synthetic materials. Tapes are issued in various lengths and widths and graduated in a variety
of ways.

2.5 Procedure of Curve

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Step 1: Locate the tangent point T, by measuring back the total tangent length (Tt) along the
back tangent, from the point of intersection V.
Step 2: Set a theodolite over the point T. Set the vernier A to zero and clamp the upper plate.
Step 3: Direct the line of sight of theodolite to the intersection point V and clamp the lower
plate.
Step 4: Release the upper plate. Set the vernier A to the first deflection angle (a1). The line of
sight now points towards the first peg on the transition curve.
Step 5: With the zero of the tape pinned at T and an arrow kept at the mark corresponding to
the first length of the chord, the assistant will swing the tape till the arrow is bisected by the
line of sight.
Fix the first peg at the arrow point.
Step 6: Set the vernier A on the second deflection angle (a2) to direct the line of sight to the
second peg.
Step 7: With the zero of the tape pinned at T and keeping an arrow at the mark corresponding
to the total length of the first and second chords, the assistant will swing an arc till the arrow
is bisected by the line of sight.
Fix the second peg at the arrow point. It should be remembered that the distance is measured
from the point T and not from the previous point.
Step 8: Repeat steps (6) and (7) till the last point C on the transition curve is reached.
Step 9: For setting out the circular curve CC', shift the theodolite to junction point C.
Step 10: Plunge the telescope. The line of sight is now directed along the tangent C1C
produced.
Step 11: Set the vernier A to the first deflection angle D1 and locate the first peg on the
circular curve at a distance of c' from C, where c' is length of the first sub-chord.
Step 12: Likewise, locate the second peg on the circular curve at the distance c equal to the
normal chord from the first peg with the deflection angle D2 at C.
Step 13: Continue the above process till the junction point C' is reached.
Step 14: Set out the transition curve T'C' from T' using the same procedure as that for the
transition curve TC.

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2.6 Precautions of Curve
A) While using a theodolite:
• Use both hands to hold the total station handle.
• Set up the tripod as stable as possible.
• Do not move or carry a tripod with the total station fixed on it.
• Store the battery pack with the battery discharged.
• Do not over tighten any of the clamp screws.
• Take maximum care when the tribrach is removed from the total station.

B) CENTERING
Ensure that the theodolite instrument and targets correctly over each survey
station. The angles and distances may be required from or to a known station.
C) ANGLES
When clamping the instrument, apply light clamp to the vertical and horizontal
locks as hard clamp can affect the pointing of the instrument. Keep the target of
the field of view. All movement of theodolite should be kept as smooth as
possible and all movements around the instrument should be kept to a
minimum.
D) DISTANCES
All distances should be obtained to 3 decimal places and 3 readings should be
taken and the mean is calculated.

DATA & RESULTS

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POINT CHAINAGE CHORD INDIVIDUAL COMMULATIVE
INTERVAL ANGLE ANGLE
(M)
T 2068.46 - - 00°00’00″
1 2070 1.54 00°11’1.78″ 00°11’1.78″
2 2080 10 01°11’37.25″ 01°22’39.03″
3 2090 10 01°11’37.25″ 02°34’16.28″
4 2100 10 01°11’37.25″ 03°45’53.53″
5 2110 10 01°11’37.25″ 04°57’30.78″
6 2120 10 01°11’37.25″ 06°09’8.03″
7 2130 10 01°11’37.25″ 07°20’45.28″
8 2140 10 01°11’37.25″ 08°32’22.53″
9 2150 10 01°11’37.25″ 09°43’59.78″
10 2160 10 01°11’37.25″ 10°55’37.03″
T2 (U) 2168.99 8.99 01°04’23.23″ 12°00’0.26″

Calculation: Rankine’s method

Ø = 24°00’00″, R = 240 meters
Rantaian Panjang, I = 2220 meters
Garis rentas = 10 meter

Tangent length, IT = R x tan (Ø / 2)

= 240 x tan (24°00’00″ / 2)
= 51.01 meters

Length of curve, LB = (Π x R x Ø) / 180°

= (Π x 240 x 24°00’00″) / 180°
= 100.53 meters
T1 = 2168.99 - 100.53

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 = 2068.46 meters
T2 = 2220 – 51.01 meters
= 2168.99 meters

2068.46 / 10 = 206.85
10 x 206 = 20603
10 x 207 = 2070
2070 – 2068.46 = 1.54
U = 2168.99
= 216.89 / 10
= 216.89
10 x 216 = 2160
10 x 217 = 2170
2170 – 2168.99
= 1.01
10 – 1.01
= 8.99
Deflection Angle, δ = 1718.9(C/R) /60

1718.9 x (1.54 / 240) / 60

= 00°11’1.78″
1718.9 x (10 / 240) / 60
= 01°11’37.25″
1718.9 x (8.99 / 240) / 60
= 01°04’23.23″

DISCUSSIONS / CONCLUSIONS / SUGGESTIONS

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4.1. Discussion
Curves are regular bends provided in the lines of communication like roads, railways and
canals etc. to bring about gradual change of direction. They enable the vehicle to pass from
one path on to another when the two paths meet at an angle. They are also used in the vertical
plane at all changes of grade to avoid the abrupt change of grade at the apex. There are two
types of curves, vertical and horizontal curves.

Curves provided in the horizontal plane to have the gradual change in direction are known as
horizontal curves. Curves provided in the vertical plane to obtain the gradual change in grade
are called as vertical curves. Vertical curves may be circular or parabolic and are generally
arcs of parabolas. They are laid out on the ground along the line of the work. Horizontal
Curves used in horizontal planes to connect two straight tangent sections.

Horizontal Curves used in horizontal planes to connect two straight tangent sections.

Simple Curve: A circular arc connecting two tangents.

Compound Curve: Two or more circular arcs of different radii tangent to each other.

Broken-back Curve: Combination of a short length of tangent connecting two circular arcs
that have on the same side. Reverse Curve: Two circular arcs tangent to each other, with their
center on opposite side of the alignment.

4.2. Conclusion

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 In conclusion, the end of chapter we be able to describe the about our fieldwork. After done
the practical, we know how curve work is done. Besides that, we know how to determine the
curve by using Rankine’s method. Then, we have a knowledge of all the equipment required
to carry out. The learning curve (experience curve) is essential in the management and
running of various projects or activities as a whole. It is therefore evident that the experience
curves would have effects on whatever project that has to be undertaken both in the short and
long run.

Overall, this fieldwork has taught us a lot of hand-on knowledge about the surveying. The
principle to be adopted in surveying is that of ‘working form the whole to the part’. Work
should commence with a control survey to establish the positions of plan control stations and
the levels of temporary benchmarks throughout the site. Measurements taken should be
adequate precision the whole, the whole to part method will reduce the likelihood of errors
accumulating.

In a nutshell, thanks for our lecture Mrs. Saedatul for giving us to learn and hands on in
curve. I hope that next time we have chance to do surveying like this again.

APPENDIX / REFERENCES

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• https://landsurveyorsunited.com/main/authorization/signIn?
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranging_rod
• http://engineeringtraining.tpub.com/14069/css/Chaining-Pin-396.htm
• https://www.engineeringenotes.com/surveying/curves/curves-definition-and-types-
curves-surveying/14477
• https://www.google.com/search?q=Transition+Curve&source=lmns&bih=625&biw=
1366&hl=en&sa=X&ved=2ahUKEwijk8KIyLLuAhUcA7cAHdrTBa0Q_AUoAHoE
CAEQAA
• https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-3-642-76598-8_5
https://nptel.ac.in/content/storage2/courses/105107122/modules/module11/html/39-
10.htm

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