Retriangulating

Retriangulating is a process used in surveying and cartography to re-establish the location of points or features using triangulation. Triangulation is a method of determining the location of a point by measuring angles to it from two known points, or by measuring distances to it from multiple known points. Retriangulating becomes necessary when the original survey data is lost, inaccurate, or when changes in the landscape or infrastructure require updated positional information.

The process typically involves using existing survey control points, which are points with precisely known coordinates, as the basis for the new triangulation. New measurements are taken from these control points to the points or features that need to be located or relocated. This can involve measuring angles using a theodolite or total station, or measuring distances using electronic distance measurement (EDM) devices. The collected data is then processed using mathematical algorithms to calculate the coordinates of the unknown points.

Reasons for retriangulating can include land subdivision, construction projects requiring precise placement of elements, updating digital maps, or verifying property boundaries. It ensures that new measurements are consistent with the established geodetic framework, maintaining accuracy and integrity of spatial data over time. In essence, retriangulating serves to correct or update spatial information based on foundational, known locations.