A traverse successfully finishes when the final measured position mathematically matches the known coordinates of the destination point. The vector sum of all latitudes and departures should ideally equal zero in a closed loop. Surveyors calculate the difference between the measured end point and the true end point to determine the error of closure and verify the quality of the work.
We need to shoot one more setup to close the loop before we pack up the total station for the day.
Do not mix it up with
- Misclose: To close is the action of completing the loop, while a misclose is the mathematical error left over when it does not perfectly align.
Related terms
Misclose
The geometric gap between the starting and ending points of a closed traverse.
Misclosure
The geometric discrepancy that occurs when a traverse or level loop fails to close perfectly on its starting point.
Traverse table
A printed reference book used to look up the latitude and departure of a survey line based on its bearing and distance.