Planimetrie

Planimetria is a branch of surveying and cartography focused on measuring and representing the horizontal positions of points on a plane. It deals with the x and y coordinates of objects, ignoring elevation, and is used to produce planimetric maps and layouts such as cadastral plans, floor plans, and site plans. It is complementary to altimetria, which records elevations.

In practice, planimetria involves field measurements to determine coordinates of points using methods such as traversing, triangulation, plane table surveying, and modern electronic instruments. The data are processed to obtain a consistent network of points, with adjustments to minimize errors.

Instruments and technology: traditional tools include the plane table, compass, and tape; more common today are theodolites or total stations, GNSS receivers, and electronic distance measurement devices. Data are stored as x, y coordinates and used in GIS and CAD systems. Output includes planimetric maps at defined scales.

Applications: cadastral and land surveying, urban planning, construction layout, architecture, infrastructure project planning. Distinct from altimetria, which records height differences, planimetria is concerned with horizontal geometry and can incorporate projection onto a chosen reference plane.

Notes: Planimetric work requires attention to accuracy, error sources such as instrument bias and environmental conditions, and careful data processing, adjustments, and quality control before publishing maps.