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Engineering Geodesy

Deformation Measurements

Precise geodetic measurements that determine and monitor movements of buildings, structures, or ground surface over time.

Deformation measurements are specialized high-precision geodetic measurements that allow determining and monitoring movements of buildings, structures, or ground surface. These measurements are essential for safety and structural integrity assurance.

Types of deformation:

  • Vertical deformations - settlement, uplift
  • Horizontal deformations - lateral displacement, tilting
  • Rotational deformations - rotation around axis
  • Combined deformations - combination of multiple types

When are deformation measurements needed?

  • New buildings - settlement monitoring in the first operation period
  • Old buildings - stability control, renovation planning
  • Construction impact - monitoring adjacent buildings
  • Bridges and overpasses - regular technical monitoring
  • Dams and protective structures - safety monitoring
  • Industrial equipment - precision maintenance

Measurement methods:

  • Precise leveling - vertical displacement determination
  • Trigonometric method - with precision total stations
  • GNSS monitoring - continuous satellite observation
  • Photogrammetry - 3D model comparison
  • Inclinometry - tilt change measurement
  • Laser scanning - detailed surface analysis

Deformation measurement system:

  1. Base points - stable reference points outside deformation zone
  2. Control points - points on the studied object
  3. Observation schedule - regular measurement plan
  4. Data analysis - displacement calculation and interpretation

Precision:

  • Vertically - up to ±0.3 mm
  • Horizontally - up to ±1 mm
  • Depending on object and requirements

Documentation:

Deformation measurement results are documented in reports and graphs showing displacement dynamics over time. When allowable limits are exceeded, warnings are issued about the need for action.

Deformation Measurements - Surveying Dictionary | Topoprojekts