Leveling technology. Laser level how to use lessons and training. Features of rotational models
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The optical level is considered by many to be archaism, while it is one of the most accurate instruments in the framework of geodetic research. In our review, we will satisfy the interest of the inhabitants on the use of a level for the geometric method of constructing planes.
Two surveyors on different sides of the abyss:
Nivelir (shouts): Come on!
Reika: What?
Leveler (even louder): Move on!!!
Reika: I can't hear you!!!
Nivelier (mumbling): You deaf idiot...
Reika (shouting): You're an idiot!!!
The essence and specifics of leveling
There are many ways to determine the curvature of the earth's surface: by the slightest difference in atmospheric pressure, using a theodolite or water level and other devices. However, geometric leveling is considered the most versatile, fast and accurate method: even for technical levels used in construction, the measurement error is only 10 mm per km.
The essence of leveling is to determine the height difference (exceedance) of each of the set of points on the ground relative to some reference point, which is called a reference point in construction. After the virtual plane has been determined, the zero mark is counted relative to it, which in most cases lies at the floor level of the first floor of the building.
In principle, there is nothing complicated in leveling, except for two specific points. On the one hand, a surveyor with a partner must be able to use a level and a rail, know the subtleties of setting and correctly set control posts. Another nuance is that there may be objects on the ground that prevent visual contact between the level and the staff. Therefore, the installation site of the level has to be periodically transferred by determining the time benchmarks and setting the height difference for them. But in the end, all calculations come down to banal arithmetic.
Definition of benchmark and key points
During the geodetic study of the construction site, the benchmark is placed at the lowest point of the plane, which is determined visually or by a cursory "shoot through". At this point, a massive pole with a straight cut is driven into the ground, on which it is convenient to install a rail.
The number and location of key points depends on the leveling tasks. If we are talking about preparing a foundation pit for the foundation, the points are located on the inner and outer corners along the contour of the future structure. When placing control points, high accuracy is not required, it is only important that there are no local bumps or holes in the place where the stakes are installed.
Within the boundaries of the settlement there are special, measured and officially approved, reference points for reference to them when measuring new construction sites.
All points should be as far as possible equidistant from the installation site of the level and be at least 5 meters away from it. If a small area is leveled, the level can shoot all points from the side, well, or use a hydrostatic level.
Installing and aligning the reticle
First you need to set up a tripod. Having loosened the screws for fastening the telescopic legs, the tripod must be leveled so that the upper platform lies in a horizontal plane, everything is done “by eye” here. The legs must be pressed into loose soil, pressing the foot on the stop, while the distance between them should be the same. The height of the legs must be adjusted so that the tripod platform is at chest level, and then tighten the screws.
When the tripod is installed, the level itself is attached to it by means of a central screw. It has two platforms: the lower one is fixed to the tripod with a screw or in another standard way, the upper one rests on three adjusting screws. On the sides of the triangle formed by the screws are three cylindrical pre-set vials. Rotating one pair of screws, you first need to ensure that the bubble between them is exactly between the marks. After that, by tightening the third screw, two other levels are set. The fine-tuning indicator - a round level - is located on the body of the optical tube of the level. It may be necessary to turn the adjusting screws a little to get the bubble exactly within the circle mark. The leveler is ready to go.
Leveling staff designations
Before you start shooting the area, it would be nice to figure out how to navigate the rail. Indeed, what are these incomprehensible letters “E”, what are these black and red marks? In fact, everything is very simple.
The rail is divided into segments, each 10 cm long. Inside each segment there are black and white sections, each 1 cm long. The last three black sections are united by a side line - this is to make it easier to visually determine the center of the segment. The numbers indicate in which ten centimeters the segment marks are located, that is, in fact, the position on the rail is determined by the number of white and black sections added to the ten number.
But the accuracy of one centimeter is clearly not enough. The fact is that on the reverse side of the rail there is the usual millimeter graduation, which is not very convenient to use at long distances. Therefore, the assistant holding the rail can additionally adjust the slider, guided by the surveyor's commands "higher" and "lower", and then show the number of millimeters on the fingers. Also, some levels are equipped with a metric grid, according to which this deviation is even easier to determine.
Finally, the most interesting question is why the top of the rake has red markings in reverse order. The fact is that the old levels did not have an additional lens and the surveyor saw the image upside down. But with such "dinosaurs" you are unlikely to have to deal with.
Point elevation measurement procedure
Before shooting a point, the assistant should set the staff as close as possible to the control peg, gently resting it on the adjacent ground. The rail during measurements must be kept motionless and strictly vertical, using a plumb line or a round bubble level for leveling.
The level must be turned towards the rail so that the vertical axis of the grid is located exactly in its center. After that, by rotating the optical screw, you need to adjust the sharpness of the image so that the marks on the rail are clearly visible. Then you need to adjust the sharpness of the reticle display by rotating the ring on the eyepiece.
To determine the excess, it is necessary to note the number of the segment on which the vertical axis is located, and then calculate how many whole black and white gaps are from the beginning of the segment to the axis. By adding this value after the segment number, you will get the elevation in centimeters. If more accuracy is needed, a comma is placed after the elevation, then the assistant moves the slider so that its edge exactly coincides with the horizontal axis and transmits the number of additional millimeters, which is written after the comma.
You can do without the slider. If the horizontal axis is located exactly in the middle of the white or black mark, add three millimeters, if in the lower quarter - one or two, if in the upper quarter - four. Such a visual definition for construction is more than enough.
Logging and billing
The leveling process is associated with maintaining a large number of records. The surveyor should have at hand a plan of the site, which schematically shows the object for the construction of which the leveling is performed, as well as the location of the control stakes. Each peg must be numbered and these designations should be placed in a separate table, in which the measured excesses are noted.
Now about the excesses themselves. They are relative and absolute, that is, from the measurement plane of the level and from the benchmark. For example, the excess of the benchmark was 145.2 cm, and the control point was 151 cm. Subtracting the excess of the point from the excess of the benchmark, we find that the absolute excess will be -4.8 cm, while the minus sign makes it clear that the current is located below. Similar calculations should be carried out for each of the points.
The practical meaning of leveling is to put marks on stakes that are in the same horizontal plane. To do this, you need to find the highest point with the highest positive value of the excess and add to it, for example, 20 cm. Following from one peg to another, they use a tape measure to set aside the value of the excess of the point to which the offset value is added - the same 20 cm. The marks obtained are used in earthworks and determining the depth of the pit, or for pulling the mooring line.
Despite the fact that modern manufacturers are trying to make measuring devices as user-friendly and understandable as possible, the question of how to work with a level still remains open for many beginners in this business. In most cases, it is enough to read the instructions for the device, but there are nuances that I would like to pay special attention to. For those who are just learning the basics of working with this device, we will tell you how to use the level correctly.
Working with an optical level
As an example, let's take the simplest level, consisting of a spotting scope, a cylindrical level and a tribrach (stand for the spotting scope). The procedure here is as follows:
1. The first stage is the installation of the level. To ensure high measurement accuracy, the device must be mounted on a tripod (height can be changed by adjusting the legs). Please note that the head of the device must be located strictly horizontally, its position can be changed using the lifting tribrach.
2. The next step is to set up the level. Adjust the instrument so that the level bubble is in the zero-point position - turn the footscrews in opposite directions until the bubble comes out on a line perpendicular to the line of connection of the screws.
3. The next step is focusing the telescope. Aim the eyepiece at a bright surface and rotate the tube ring until the reticle is as sharp as possible. It is also important that the rail is clearly visible, for this the image must be adjusted with the help of a sight.
4. If you plan to install a level over the point, you need to perform centering. To do this, hang a plumb line and, loosening the screws, move it along the tripod head until the plumb line points to a point.
5. Now directly about how to use the level (how to take readings). Measurements are carried out as follows: point the telescope at the rear rail (on the black side), bring the bubble to the “zero-point” position. Take a reading on the grid of telescope threads: middle and rangefinding strokes. Record all readings on paper. Next, pointing the pipe at the second rail (its black side), in the same way bring the bubble to the “zero-point” position and take the reading. Then take the reading on the red side of the front rail (on the middle stroke). Next, take the reading by pointing the pipe at the rear rail, on its black side.
How to use a laser level
It is best if the work will be carried out indoors, as in bright sunlight the laser beam may be difficult to see. If the work will be carried out on the street, it is important to pay attention to the protection class of the device - here it is necessary to take into account the temperature range in which the level is allowed to operate, as well as the degree of its protection from moisture and dust.
It is better to read detailed instructions on how to use a laser level in the instruction manual for your model, since each device may have its own nuances. However, in general, the principle of operation of all laser levels is similar. Almost every modern model provides the ability to select the direction of the projected beam: either only in the horizontal, or only in the vertical, or in both directions at the same time. In rotary models, you can also find settings for the frequency of rotation of the laser beam and the ability to select the scanning angle.
1. If you are working in a large room (for example, a gym) and you need to make a hole in the wall, which should be slightly higher than the same hole on the opposite wall, it is recommended to use a special target. In appearance, it is somewhat similar to a target for darts or a shooting gallery, but in this case it is necessary to “shoot” it not with darts, but with a laser beam. This device will allow you to perform markup with maximum accuracy.
2. One of the most common questions is how to use a level when leveling walls. To do this, place control marks in different parts of the wall and
let the laser beam of the device along it. In this way, you will immediately see the existing deviations and determine how the wall is not vertical.
3. Quite often, levels are used when laying tiles: for this you will need to project cross beams on horizontal and vertical surfaces, at the junction of the tiles. Tiles should be laid, focusing on the lines of the beam.
4. The ability to work with a laser level will also be needed when pasting wallpaper: a vertical beam will help you paste sheets perfectly evenly, a horizontal beam will help you beautifully lay a plinth or border.
5. The level is also useful when installing furniture. For example, you need to hang a cabinet on the wall or attach a shelf. Of course, in this case, you can use the usual bubble level, but with a level, this work will be done faster and more accurately. To mark the holes on which the shelf or cabinet will be attached, it is necessary to project a horizontal line along the wall.
6. Using a level, you can also design inclined planes. To perform this kind of work, it is necessary that the level has a function for changing the beam tilt or the ability to block the automatic leveling system. The first option is simpler and more convenient - in this case, you just need to set the desired angle of the beam. If this function is not available, turn off the auto leveling system and set the instrument on a tripod at the desired angle.
The construction tool for performing measuring operations has undergone significant changes in recent years. Traditional levels and rails fade into the background, giving way to more functional and technologically advanced electronic counterparts. Optical and laser devices for determining the position of building objects provide high-precision results, while also performing complex mathematical calculations based on the received data. And it is quite logical that as the instruments become more complex, questions arise about how to work with the level? The educational program for beginners, presented below, will allow you to master the basic rules for using such devices. Despite their physical ergonomics, the operation process involves the implementation of a number of procedures, on which the correctness of the result will depend.
The device of optical levels
The basis of the device is formed by a tribrach - a metal circle, the position of which is fixed by three supports with regulating elements. The lifting screws allow the structure to be optimally positioned on the site, minimizing the risk of deviations. The device also includes a horizontal limb, a spotting scope, cylindrical levels and a compensator in the form of a magnetic or air damper. with this type of level? Initially, adjustment is carried out using the above-mentioned screws, and the measurement itself is carried out through the telescope. Depending on the configuration, optical devices may have several lenses in the set, allowing you to perform measurements in different conditions. To correct the device for clarity, the head part with optics also provides for the presence of adjusting screws, which reduce the risk of obtaining a large error. With the help of such equipment, it is possible to determine the height of the structure, the differences in the levels of the position of individual objects, fix the angles of inclination, etc.
Laser level device
Models of this kind do not include a telescope, which saves the user from independently determining the geometric parameters of the object. The working basis is a laser emitter that projects a beam onto the target area. The design also provides for the presence of regulating fittings, but in this case, the error tolerance is excluded, since most models, regardless of position, can automatically correct the angle of the beam direction relative to the horizontal.
How does a laser level work? The device prepared for the operation is oriented by optics to the object, as a result of which a point is reflected on the surface, according to which it is possible to estimate the height and make a measurement. Such equipment is good in that it reduces the risk of making mistakes due to the human factor. Also, its advantages include a wide range of additional options related to the processing of the received information.
Features of rotational models
These are the most technologically advanced devices designed for marking on the construction site. A key feature of such models is the presence of a rotating detector, which contains two lasers. They can move at a speed of about 600 rpm, projecting a beam in the range of 360°. How to work with a rotary type level? The technique for handling such devices generally corresponds to typical laser devices, and the difference lies only in the organization of the final markup. That is, if the beam in conventional models provides information about one characteristic, after which it needs to be moved, then the rotational technique from one position allows for complex calculations. This approach is especially effective when installing windows, performing surface finishing and in other operations where it is required to obtain data on the position of different objects within the same room or construction site. But in open areas, there may be restrictions associated with reaching the target.
Before proceeding with the main work activities, you should consider measures to ensure the safety of the device. First of all, the case must be protected from water, dirt, dust and physical shock. As a rule, the design of building levels has multi-level dust and moisture protection insulation, but this may not be enough. For example, in heavy rain, even models with a protection class higher than IP54 cannot be used without an additional shell. The same applies to the threat of direct sunlight. Temporary overheating of the equipment may not disable it, but it will completely affect the accuracy of measurements.
How to work with a level if it is cold or hot outside and surface cover does not help? Initially, it is worth making sure that the device is, in principle, suitable for operation at a particular temperature regime. As a rule, models from large manufacturers can be used with an average range of -10 to 25 ° C. But even in this case, it is necessary to adhere to certain rules of operation. For example, optical models are sensitive to temperature changes. After performing the measurement, the device should be brought into a warm room and warmed up in the complete case for 30 minutes.
What is required for work?
Use a tripod to ensure the correct position of the device. You can do without it indoors with a flat base, but when it comes to working on a construction site on bare ground, then adjustable equipment will not be superfluous. But even indoors without special supporting devices, it will be inconvenient to work with the device. For such purposes, ergonomic holders are provided. They can be attached to walls, floors and even ceilings.
You will also need a special rail. Its scale will allow marking divisions on the target surface, according to which the required readings will be recorded. How to work with a level and staff? Traditional methods assume that two people will be involved in the process - one is directly responsible for fixing the data, and the second holds the rail. However, the latest models of laser electronic devices automatically process the data, taking into account the special barcodes of the rails. In this case, the user only needs to activate the corresponding function and correctly set the scale position.
Operation of optical instruments
As already mentioned, work begins with the adjustment of the spotting scope. The main task at this stage is to achieve the utmost clarity of the image of the object. Adjustment is made by means of screws, and correctness is judged by the view through the eyepiece.
Further work, unlike laser models, is performed together. One worker sets the rail perpendicular to the ground, and the second takes readings using the image of an optical level. How to work with it so that the correctness of the data does not decrease during the operation? First, much will depend on the reliability of the position of the device. Therefore, special attention is initially paid to the stability of fixing the legs. Secondly, professional surveyors use spirit levels. These are devices with bubble levels, thanks to which both the position of the tripod and the position of the level are corrected. When the device is ready for operation, the pipe sight is aimed at the divisions of the rail. Then it remains only to record the readings in the technical journal.
How to work with a laser type level?
The device is also fixed by means of a tripod or special holders. After making sure that the installation is reliable, you can begin work activities. After pressing a special button, a beam is applied to the target surface. Lines can be projected horizontally or vertically, and some models also include the possibility of cross-radiation. After that, the device automatically takes readings from the prepared rail with divisions. If marking is planned at large distances, then a special receiver cannot be dispensed with, which will separately record the position of the beam. level, supplemented by such a device? The main operations are also taken over by automation. The operator only needs to monitor the readings on the receiver's display, which can fix the position of points at distances of the order of 80-100 m. At the time of beam registration, the device will give an appropriate signal and display the received information, which is logged.
Instrument maintenance
Optical devices are the most demanding to care for. Therefore, after each session of use, it is necessary to wipe the eyepieces, lenses and surfaces of the telescope. The slightest contamination can affect the accuracy of the reflection of the data. For example, the Kondtrol company has a wide range of devices of this type, recommending regular verification as well. In reviews of this product, criticism is often found, in which it is noted that clarity does not work on the Sokia level. The reasons for the decrease in the image quality of the models of this series may lie in the dusting of the optics, and in structural violations. For example, if the same lenses were installed loosely. In this case, verification procedures should be carried out using a white sheet of paper. It is located at a predetermined distance near the marking rail. Correction of optical equipment is carried out until the measurement results coincide with the actual data known in advance.
To work with a level, you need to have certain skills and knowledge. This device is indispensable during the construction of objects of varying degrees of complexity. It ensures the accuracy of the placement of all objects in space and prevents irreparable errors.
Level - device features, scope
Level at the construction site is an indispensable tool. With it, you can find the level of location of certain points relative to a specific base. Before the start of any construction, site planning is carried out, which implies the elimination of irregularities. The easiest way to do this is to use a level. You can’t do without this device when performing many other works - when arranging the foundation, pouring floors, installing formwork.
Design features
The main structural element of the level is called the telescope. It is equipped with a lens system that can magnify the image by twenty or more times. This element is mounted on a special support - a tribrach. It has three leveling screws with which the instrument can be leveled accurately. To facilitate this process, there is a bubble level on the stand.
The design of the unit also includes a tripod. It is better to choose aluminum options that are light and durable. Some devices have a limb, with which you can measure or build angles.
The telescope has a flywheel. It allows you to adjust the sharpness of the image. To adjust the device to the visual acuity of a particular person, a regulator on the eyepiece is used.
Additional equipment and inventory
To work with the level, you need to purchase not only the device itself with a tripod, but also some additional equipment. It is necessary to have a special rail with divisions and numbers printed on its surface, which will facilitate the performance of the corresponding measurements. The scale is presented in the form of red and black stripes having a width of 1 cm.
On the bar there are numbers in increments of 10 cm. The measurement value is decimeters, and all numbers are written in two-digit form. 60 cm is denoted as 06, 120 cm - 12, etc. For ease of use, each of the five strips is united by a vertical line. Therefore, the entire plank is covered with original letters E - in the usual and mirror form.
Some older models of levels turn the image upside down, so all the numbers on the staff are in the same unusual form. Each level must be accompanied by a passport and instructions for use. The documentation for the device indicates the date of the last verification, which guarantees its efficiency.
Each model comes with the following accessories as standard:
- protective case for storing the spotting scope;
- key to perform maintenance;
- a plumb line for installing the device strictly at the specified point;
- soft cloth for lens treatment.
Step-by-step instructions for working with a level
How to use the level in the absence of the necessary experience? Beginning craftsmen should follow simple instructions during work.
Step 1 – Setting Up the Tripod
- fixing screws on the legs relax as much as possible;
- the device supports are extended to the required length;
- the tripod is set in the desired position, taking into account the horizontal level;
- the screws on the tripod are fixed on all sides.
Step 2 – level installation
The leveling pipe is fixed to the mounted tripod using several mounting screws. With the use of level sensors (by the method of their rotation), a strictly horizontal position of the device is achieved. It is necessary that the bubbles on the scale are in the area of the indicated marks.
At first, it is desirable to accurately set the first of them. Only after that they proceed to adjust the second screw, focusing on the previous one. Only such a phased adjustment of the level will help to achieve good performance in work. The optical axis of the device must be strictly horizontal.
Step 3 - focusing the optical node
After installing the level in the desired position, they proceed to adjusting its telescope, focusing on the visual acuity of the operator. To do this, you need to transfer the device to a well-lit object, and turn the knob until the marking grid is displayed as clearly as possible.
The same work must be done on other objects that are less well-lit. Focus adjustment is carried out as long as necessary.
How to determine the excess of points?
Working with an optical level is to determine the difference in heights of several points on the surface. To do this, you must have a special measuring rod and an assistant who will transfer it from one place to another.
To perform work, you must adhere to the following instructions:
- Select the first point at which the rail is installed in a vertical position.
- In order for the bar to stand as evenly as possible, it is necessary to correct its location, focusing on the reticle on the device.
- The level is pointed at the rail. By rotating the eyepiece, maximum image clarity is achieved.
- In a notebook, write down the values \u200b\u200bof the measuring rail, where the horizontal line of the reticle turned out to be.
- The bar is transferred to another point and all the work is carried out first in a similar way.
- The level is fixed. Therefore, the larger the measured value on the staff, the lower the particular point is.
Rules for transferring marks to the surface
A level at a construction site is an indispensable thing, since it can be used to determine the depth of digging a pit in each case. Consider the situation when it is necessary to obtain a recess with the bottom at a level of -2.000 relative to the floor of the building. To do this, the excavator must specify its mark.
To properly perform this work, set the rail at a point that corresponds to the floor of the building - at design zero. At a construction site, such benchmarks are usually set by a surveyor.
Let's assume that at this point it was possible to measure the value 153. A peg is installed at the location of the future pit and a rail is attached to it. They remove the value that came out, for example, 168. The difference of 15 cm is set aside from the bottom of the peg up. Next to it, you can score another column. Its top should correspond to the mark made, which will provide the excavator with a more reliable reference.
Rules for the maintenance of devices
It is necessary to work with the level carefully, which is explained by the sensitivity of this device to any damage.
After each work performed, it is recommended to wipe the eyepiece and lenses with a soft flannel, which is usually provided by the manufacturer as part of the standard package for each model. The slightest contamination on the surface of the optical system leads to measurement inaccuracies, which negatively affects the result of the work performed.
To ensure the high accuracy of the equipment, it is regularly calibrated. It is done every three years, which is noted in the passport for the device.
This should be trusted to professionals, but in some cases everything can be done on your own. A regular sheet of paper is used, which is placed at a known distance from the marking rail. The optical system of the level is adjusted until the measured values match the actual values.