Theoretical and practical aspects of geodetic instruments calibration

Abstract

Most geodetic instruments are based on measurement of length and angle. Calibration of these instruments is performed using multiangular prisms – polygons with an autocollimator, rotary tables, circular scales and reference length measures. The angle and length measures are calibrated against the upper level measures (etalons) in such a way as to ensure traceability of measurements. Length measurements and calibration are more widely implemented, but this is not as well organised with angle measurements. Some new methods of angle measurement presented here can also be used for this purpose. The equipment of calibration that permits to select significantly more information would be essential for better accuracy assurance of instruments used in geodesy and construction. Theoretical and technical background for justifying the development of such equipment for angular accuracy calibration is presented.