Trigpoints, also known as triangulation stations, are fixed points that are used to help measure distances between different locations. They were originally used to map the United Kingdom, but today they are used by hikers, surveyors, and other professionals to measure distances and create accurate maps. In this blog, we’ll explore how to use trigpoints to measure distances.
What are Trigpoints?
Trigpoints are physical markers that were established in the UK during the 1930s and 1940s to help map the country. They were originally used to create a network of precise survey points across the country and were established at strategic locations to ensure that accurate distances could be measured between them.
Trigpoints were made of concrete and were typically about 4 feet tall. They consist of a triangular base with a flat top, which is marked with a metal plate that identifies the trig point number and elevation. Trigpoints were usually located on the highest point in the area to ensure that they had a clear line of sight to other nearby trigpoints.
How to use Trigpoints to Measure Distances
To use trigpoints to measure distances, you need to have a basic understanding of geometry and trigonometry. Here are the steps to follow:
Step 1: Locate the Trigpoints The first step in using trigpoints to measure distances is to locate the trigpoints in the area you wish to measure. You can find the location of trigpoints using maps or online resources. Once you have located the trigpoints, you need to identify which ones you will use to measure the distance between your starting point and your destination.
Step 2: Measure the Angle between the Trigpoints Once you have identified the trigpoints you will use, you need to measure the angle between them. To do this, you will need a theodolite or another surveying instrument that can measure angles accurately. The angle between the trigpoints is known as the horizontal angle, and it is measured in degrees, minutes, and seconds.
Step 3: Calculate the Distance Once you have measured the horizontal angle between the trigpoints, you can use trigonometry to calculate the distance between them. Trigonometry is a branch of mathematics that deals with the relationships between the sides and angles of triangles. To calculate the distance between two trigpoints, you need to use the following formula:
Distance = (Height Difference x 100) / Tan(Horizontal Angle)
In this formula, the height difference is the difference in elevation between the two trigpoints, and the horizontal angle is the angle you measured in step 2. The result will be in meters.
Step 4: Repeat as Necessary If you need to measure the distance between multiple locations, you can repeat this process as necessary. Simply identify the trigpoints that are closest to each location, measure the horizontal angles between them, and calculate the distances using the formula above.
Accuracy of Trigpoint Measurements Trigpoints are highly accurate and can be used to measure distances with a high degree of precision. However, there are several factors that can affect the accuracy of your measurements. These include:
- Atmospheric conditions: Atmospheric conditions, such as humidity and temperature, can affect the accuracy of your measurements. These conditions can cause light to refract, which can lead to errors in your measurements.
- Instrument accuracy: The accuracy of your surveying instrument can also affect the accuracy of your measurements. It is important to use a high-quality instrument and to calibrate it regularly to ensure that it is measuring accurately.
- Human error: Human error, such as misreading the instrument or incorrectly calculating the distance, can also affect the accuracy of your measurements. It is important to take your time and double-check your calculations to ensure that your measurements are as
