What is Transit?
Definition of Transit in Construction
An instrument used to turn angles, set elevations and establish line and grade on a construction site. Confusion, in many cases, results, when individuals observe the use of an instrument on a jobsite and immediately call this instrument a transit. Many contractors use contractor levels on a jobsite, which should not be confused with the transit. A transit is a highly detailed and accurate instrument, and is used to not only shoot elevations, they are used to turn angles as well. Transits are constantly being updated and improved. New technologies are advancing these instruments to perform, basically, flawlessly, and with a sensitivity toward human error. With the advancement of computers and software the transits being used on construction projects have advanced to such a point, that they basically level and operate almost independently of human intervention. Software is entered into the transit and the desired line and grade is electronically projected for field use. There are many new advances which have automated the use of excavation equipment, allowing the untouched controls of a dozer blade to raise and lower itself, based on a computer input, to the correct grading heights on a construction project. The transit and subsequent surveying equipment that uses the transit as a control point are all in a constant state of advancement and improvement.