Point coding system in surveying

GTA - point coding system in surveying

In surveying, object coding systems are used to quickly categorise and interpret surveyed points. I have developed a concept for a coding system called GTA that is simple, logical and flexible.


The abbreviation GTA stands for Group, Type, and Attribute.

Each point code is formed from three digits: the first represents the category of the object (G), the second represents its specific type (T), and the third represents the point's characteristic (A), such as its location relative to the ground or a significant geometric feature.

This structure allows up to 1,000 unique combinations to be created and the system can be easily scaled to meet the needs of specific projects.

Logic of G (Group) codes

The first digit in the GTA code is G (Group), which denotes the main category of the object to which the shooting point belongs. This grouping is based on the principle of logical division of environmental and infrastructure objects into major classes. The system is based on the bottom-up principle - from underground objects to surface and aboveground objects.

Values from 0 to 9:
  • 0 - Underground objects
  • 1 - Water objects
  • 2 - Terrestrial structures
  • 3 - Vegetation
  • 4 - Roads and pavements
  • 5 - Buildings and structures
  • 6 - Structures
  • 7 - Temporary facilities
  • 8 - Special facilities
  • 9 - Other and reserve

T (Type) code logic

The second digit specifies which object within the group is being described. The numbering of types is built from smaller or simple objects to larger and more significant ones.

Example: in a group of water objects, a puddle would have code T=0 and the sea would have code T=9. This makes it easier to remember and allows you to quickly navigate through the codes.

A (Attribute) Code Logic

The third digit indicates the nature of the point: bottom, edge, centre, top, etc. Attributes are also coded vertically from bottom to top.

Basic values:
  • - 0 - Lower point / underground element
  • - 1 - Place of adjoining to the ground
  • - 4 - Object boundary
  • - 5 - Centre point
  • - 9 - Highest point

Examples of using the code system for surveying

1. Tree:
  • Centre of trunk at the ground: 331 / 371 / 381
  • Top: 339 / 379 / 389
  • Crown edge: 334 / 374 / 384

2. Local road:
  • Centre of road: 435
  • Roadway edge: 431
  • Edge of kerb: 434
  • Ditch bottom: 200

3. Building:
  • Ground contour: 541 / 581
  • Roof edge: 544 / 584
  • Roof ridge: 549 / 589

4. A transmission line pole on 4 supports:
  • Each point at the base: 621
  • Centre of structure: 625
  • Top point: 629

Free codes

Free codes are left in each code segment (G, T, A) - this is a necessity to make the system flexible, scalable and resistant to change.

Here are the main reasons:
  1. Future Expansion: New types of objects may appear in the process or as standards change.
  2. Refinement and granularity: Sometimes there is a need to subdivide an existing type into subtypes.
  3. Regional or project specifics: Different regions or customer requirements may have specific objects or conditions for which a reserved code will come in handy.
  4. Temporary and Custom Codes: Free codes can be used temporarily for non-standard tasks without disrupting the rest of the system.
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