ridgeline
Civil/Environmental
- May 29, 2008
- 28
We often use total station instruments, which utilize electronic distance measurements (EDM), to precisely measure and monitor structures. However, I noticed when measuring and monitoring a bridge over water recently, the measured distances fluctuated significantly as compared to other measurements over dry land. I can only assume the reflections off of the water are somehow bending the waves and changing the lengths as they travel over the water. Does this hypothesis seem reasonable? Does anyone have any reference literature that can explain what is actually occurring and how? I am thinking there may be some correlation between the intensity of the reflection and the amount the waves bend.. Any input would be greatly appreciated!