Traverse Correction Calculator
Enter Traverse Data
Closing Error (Linear)
0.000 m
Relative Precision
1 in ---
CORRECTION FOR THIS LINE:
Lat: 0.000 | Dep: 0.000
What is the Bowditch Rule?
The Bowditch Rule, also known as the Compass Rule, is the most common method used to balance a closed traverse. It assumes that errors in linear measurements are proportional to the square root of the length of the line, and angular errors are inversely proportional to the square root of the length of the line.
When is it used?
It is primarily used when both linear and angular measurements are taken with equal precision (e.g., using a Total Station or Theodolite and Tape).
Formulas
1. Closing Error (e)
$$ e = \sqrt{(\Sigma L)^2 + (\Sigma D)^2} $$
$$ e = \sqrt{(\Sigma L)^2 + (\Sigma D)^2} $$
2. Correction to Latitude (C_L)
$$ C_L = - \Sigma L \times \left( \frac{l}{P} \right) $$
$$ C_L = - \Sigma L \times \left( \frac{l}{P} \right) $$
3. Correction to Departure (C_D)
$$ C_D = - \Sigma D \times \left( \frac{l}{P} \right) $$
$$ C_D = - \Sigma D \times \left( \frac{l}{P} \right) $$
Where:
\(\Sigma L\) = Total Error in Latitude
\(\Sigma D\) = Total Error in Departure
\(l\) = Length of the specific line
\(P\) = Total Perimeter of the traverse
Solved Example
Given:
Total Latitude Error (\(\Sigma L\)) = +0.150 m
Total Perimeter (P) = 1500 m
Length of Line AB (l) = 120 m
Calculate Latitude Correction for AB:
\(C_L = - (0.150) \times (120 / 1500)\)
\(C_L = - 0.150 \times 0.08\)
\(C_L = - 0.012 \text{ m}\)
Result: Subtract 0.012 m from the Latitude of line AB.
Total Latitude Error (\(\Sigma L\)) = +0.150 m
Total Perimeter (P) = 1500 m
Length of Line AB (l) = 120 m
Calculate Latitude Correction for AB:
\(C_L = - (0.150) \times (120 / 1500)\)
\(C_L = - 0.150 \times 0.08\)
\(C_L = - 0.012 \text{ m}\)
Result: Subtract 0.012 m from the Latitude of line AB.