How to Use Reference Surface Comparison


A Reference Level Volume allows you to measure a volume from a predefined horizontal plane at a specific known height above your site's datum. This is useful for measuring sections from a known base or toe, such as cut volumes from the base of an excavation, benches, pit walls, and ramps in mines, quarries, or landfills. 

How to use Reference Level Volume

From the measurement toolbar, select Polygon. Choose a template from the dropdown menu.

Measurement Polygon Tool.png

Use the Magic Polygon tool or draw a polygon around the area of interest. 

CreateAMeasurement_MagicPolygon_Buffer.png

DrawPolygon_Stockpile.png

Select the surface comparison you want to make. In this case, choose Reference Surface for the From or To Surface in the dropdown menus.

Surface Comparison Reference Surface.png

Enter the defined REFERENCE ELEVATION LEVEL. 

Changing the reference level used for the measurement makes it possible to model a situation where material needs to be added or removed to a specific depth. 

The difference between Smart Volume and Reference Level Volume

  • Smart Volumes allow for the measurement of stockpiles on ground with a slope. (e.g., gravel dumped on a ramp or other sloping surface).
  • A Smart Volume considers the sloped surface by using polygon triangulation to interpolate the stockpile base from the elevation of the surrounding terrain.
  • A Reference Level Volume uses a horizontal plane projected from a Reference Level.
  • Measuring material stockpiled on a slope using this tool would include a slice of the terrain beneath the stockpile. 

Learn more about the different types of volume measurement.


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