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1
6th – 10th March, 2013
Pune, Maharashtra,
India
Contour Marker: Locally Made by Farmers to Mark Contours - Farming & Soil-Water Conservation (Maharashtra, Bihar)
A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instrument for Engineers
Contour Marker: Old Model (M/s Agrovision, Pune) Contour Marker: Improved New Model (VIIT, Pune)
Contour Marker for the Masses – Farmers, Laymen & Engineers
(Leveling Jobs – Farming, Conservation, Infrastructure & Building Construction Projects)
2
CONTOUR MARKER
A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instrument for Engineers
A Project Report Presented to
The DIPEX-2013 - “SHODH”
Committee and Judges
‘SHODH’ Entry No. 221
by
Second Year (S.E.) Civil Engineering Students
Choudekar Gayatri S.
Biradar Snehal B.
Wani Paresh
Sura Rajdip S.
Tathe Kaushik
Guide: Prof. (Dr.) Hemant B. Dhonde
Department of Civil Engineering
Bansilal Ramnath Agarwal Charitable Trust’s
Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology
Sr. No. 2/3/4, Kondhwa Bk., Pune, Maharashtra-India 411048
Tel: +91-20-26932300/26932600
Email: [email protected] www.viit.ac.in
6th
– 10th
March, 2013
6th – 10th March, 2013
Pune, Maharashtra,
India
3
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS
We would like to thank the following with our heartfelt gratitude;
1) Late Prof. B. K. Dhonde – for his innovative instruments and inspiration
2) Dipex/Srijan Committee – for their consideration and giving us this opportunity
3) VIIT – our college for cultivating our ideas
4) Mr. Jaisingh P. Pawar (Proprietor - “Conserve”, Shrirampur, Maharashtra)
- for donating a new Contour Marker and extra scale-stickers
5) CESA (VIIT) – for financially supporting this project
6) Mr. Sagar Nikam (S.E. Civil, VIIT) – for his help with AutoCad drawings
Project Group (LR):
Sura Rajdip S., Biradar Snehal B., Tathe Kaushik, Choudekar Gayatri S.; Wani Paresh; Prof. (Dr.) H. B. Dhonde
4
ABSTRACT
Invented by Prof. B. K. Dhonde, Contour Marker has been successfully used since 1970’s in
agricultural and soil-water conservation jobs throughout India at grass-root level. We want to
introduce the newly improved Contour Marker to engineers for carrying out accurate, fast and low cost
leveling work. The main advantage of Contour Marker over the traditional leveling instruments is that
it relives the engineer’s job. Even a semi-skilled layman can carry out accurate leveling work using the
Contour Marker. Thus, Contour Marker can relieve an engineer from the leveling work thereby saving
valuable time and money.
Contour Marker is based on the principle of an open U-Tube Manometer i.e. water level in an
open-ended u-tube remains at same level due to equal atmospheric pressure. Similar to a mason’s
level-tube, Contour Marker consists of two graduated staffs about 2 meter tall provided with generally
a 15-30 m long, thick transparent plastic tube filled with water. The staff is provided with a 1.5 m main
scale having least count of 3.33 mm. A micro-slider scale that slides over the staff is newly introduced,
which has reduced the least count of the instrument from 3.33 mm to 1 mm, thus making the new
Contour Marker more accurate.
Principally, when one staff is raised above the other, actually the water remains stationary, but the tube
and staff with scale moves. By observing the difference of water level readings on the staffs, the level
difference between the two staff location can be determined accurately. Unlike the costlier,
cumbersome and skilled-labour intensive conventional leveling instruments, the Contour Marker does
not require any temporary or permanent adjustments. Moreover, it can be used in all weather
(sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike the traditional leveling instruments. It is made with
sustainable recyclable material i.e. PVC, which is rugged, durable light-weight and shock-proof (safe).
The basic objective of this project is to introduce the newly improved Contour Marker to engineers for
various applications in leveling work pertaining to construction, irrigation, agriculture and
environmental projects. The study aims at validating the improved Contour Marker for its accuracy by
comparing its performance with the traditional leveling instruments like Dumpy/Auto Level.
5
Various differential levels (i.e. table height, stair-height, building height, sloping grounds etc.) were
measured using the improved Contour Marker and Auto Level. Contour Marker readings were
recorded with and without micro-slider scale. Within the preview of the limited tests carried out, the
preliminary tests results indicate that the improved Contour Marker with micro-slider scale offers little
to about 10 % more accuracy over the old Contour Marker model. The accuracy of Contour Marker is
improved with the introduction of the micro-slider. Additionally, the Contour Marker was observed to
have less error than the Auto Level.
Thus, the newly modified Contour Marker presented in this project is more accurate, easy-to-use,
economical, shock-proof (i.e. safe), eco-friendly and all-weather rugged leveling instrument. We
strongly believe that the improved Contour Marker is a genuinely useful leveling instrument for the
engineers.
6
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ACKNOWLEDGMENTS .................................................................................................. 3
ABSTRACT ......................................................................................................................... 4
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................... 6
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION ................................................................................................................ 7
1.1 Background and History ................................................................................................ 7
1.2 Introduction to Contour Marker ..................................................................................... 10
1.3 Problem Statement ........................................................................................................ 20
1.4 Project Objectives and Scope ........................................................................................ 20
CHAPTER 2
SPECIFICATIONS AND WORKING OF CONTOUR MARKER ............................... 22
2.1 Specifications of Contour Marker ................................................................................ 22
2.2 Leveling using Contour Marker ................................................................................... 26
2.3 Direct Contouring using Contour Marker .................................................................... 30
CHAPTER 3
EXPERIMENTS USING CONTOUR MARKER ............................................................ 32
3.1 Methodology of Experimental Tests .............................................................................. 32
3.2 Experimental Results .................................................................................................... 33
CHAPTER 4
CONCLUSIONS .................................................................................................................. 40
REFERENCES ..................................................................................................................... 41
APPENDIX-I .......................................................................................................................... 42
(Total Pages – 50)
7
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background and History
Contour Marker (CM), was invented by Late. Prof. B. K. Dhonde1, 2
, an eminent scientist and
agriculture engineer in 1968, in Pune, India. CM is a simple leveling instrument that works
under the principle of an open U-tube manometer i.e. water level in the U-tube remains at equal
level due to same atmospheric pressure.
(a) Open U-Tube Manometer (b) Masons Level
(c) Farm Contour Marker (Inventor – Prof. B. K. Dhonde seen in photo, 1968)
Fig. 1.1 Contour Marker: Principle of Working and Old Model (1968)1
Water Level – Reference Plane for Leveling
Y (mm)
X (mm)
Height of Drum =
(X-Y) (mm)
8
Since, primarily the CM was used to mark direct contours in field, the name was chosen as
‘Contour Marker’. By observing the difference of water level readings on the two staffs, the
level difference between the staff location can be determined accurately upto a least count of 1
mm. (Fig. 1.1).
In the figure, the height of the drum = (Difference between the two staff reading)
= (X – Y) mm
Also, if contour points are to be established using CM, the two staff readings should be equal,
i.e. X = Y Points below the two staves are contour points.
CM was commercially manufactured by Prof. Dhonde’s company, ‘Ajanta Farm Machinery’
from 1968 to 1980. The 1m-model of the Farm Contour Marker was widely used in
Maharashtra, Rajasthan, MP, UP, Karnataka etc. by farmers and forest officers for marking
direct contours on site. Prof. Dhonde was awarded the “G. S. Parkhe Industrial Merit Award”
for CM by the Mahratta Chamber of Commerce Industries & Agriculture, India in 1970. Later,
in 1991-92, a new and refined 1 m and 1.5 m model of CM was introduced by Er. J. B. Dhonde
(Fig. 1.2)3.
Fig. 1.2 New Model of Contour Marker (M/s Agrovision, Pune, 1992-2001)3
9
A sophisticated scale was provided in the new CM having a least count of 2.5 mm (Fig. 1.2).
Materials like wood and aluminum box-section was used for the CM staffs. More robust plastic
tube was also provided. Hence, the new CM was lighter and easy to read than its previous
version. From 1992-2001, M/s Agrovision (Proprietor Er. J. B. Dhonde & H. B. Dhonde)
manufactured and sold the CM in market. The Dhonde-team not only sold the appropriate
technology based CM, but they trained thousands of Government Forest Officers, NGO
personnel, farmers and school kids in the soil and water conservation technique of
“Continuous Contour Trenching (C.C.T.)” (Fig. 1.3). Thus, CM gained tremendous popularity
and is even today manufactured by local laymen and farmers at grass-root level for contour
farming and C.C.T. Since, 1993, CM has been used to mark direct contours in-field for C.C.T.
work on lacks of hectares with magical results throughout the country4, 5, 6
.
Fig. 1.3 Contour Marker: Presently Locally Made and Used at Grass-Root Level by Farmers,
Laymen and Govt. Forest Officers for Soil & Water Conservation (C.C.T.) and
Contour Farming, throughout India4, 5, 6
Currently, CM is manufactured at grass-root level by farmers, laymen, NGO’s, Government
Forest Department, NSS, etc. with complete freedom with respect to the patent rights
(withheld by Maharashtra Knowledge Corporation Limited, MKCL, Pune). Numerous
vendors at town and city levels also manufacture CM and sell it in local market. One NGO,
“CONSERVE”, Shrirampur, MH is manufacturing new model of CM. The specific model of
CM provided by Conserve was used in this project. Project students also made a model of
CM by themselves.
Contour Marker: Locally Made by Farmers to Mark Contours - Farming & Soil-Water Conservation (Maharashtra, Bihar etc.)
10
1.2 Introduction to Contour Marker
Civil engineering works often require level measurements – for finding accurate heights,
elevations, reduced levels, invert-levels, slopes, L- and Cross- sections, contours etc.
Traditional instruments used for leveling jobs are spirit-level, mason’s-level, dumpy level,
auto/tilting level, laser level etc. Though, spirit and mason’s level are very accurate, they have
limitations to the extent of work-coverage.
(a) Principle of Dumpy/Auto Level:
(b) Optical Line of Sight – Made Exactly Leveled using Sprit/Bubble Level or Suspended Mirrors
(c) Schematics of - i) Dumpy Level ii) Auto Level
Fig. 1.4 Dumpy and Auto Levels
Horizontal Optical Line of Sight
11
On the other hand, more sophisticated dumpy/auto/laser levels (Fig. 1.4) are costly, require
skilled technician or engineer to operate, are fairly accurate; require setting a horizontal line of
optical sight, and needing temporary and permanent adjustments etc. Since, the traditional
leveling instrument mentioned above work on the principle of “Horizontal Line of Sight”,
routine checking and re-calibration of these optical leveling instruments is must for reliable
measurements.
Contour Marker (CM), is a simple, unique, versatile, economical and user-friendly instrument
which a semi-skilled person or a layman can use for accurate leveling work. Contour Marker is
an appropriate technology based leveling instrument suited for leveling jobs in civil,
agricultural and soil-water conservation work at grass-root level. To operate the costlier
traditional leveling instruments (i.e. Dumpy/Auto Level, Laser Level etc.) a skilled-technician
or an engineer is required. Thus, Contour Marker can relieve an engineer from the leveling
work thereby saving valuable time and money. As discussed earlier, CM works on a very
reliable (fool-proof) yet simple principle of U-tube manometer – i.e. water always finds its
own level, perfect horizontal under atmospheric pressure in the open tube (Fig. 1.1 & 1.5).
Similar to a mason’s level-tube, CM consists of two graduated staffs about 2 meter tall
provided with generally a 15-30 m long, thick transparent plastic tube filled with water (Fig.
1.1 & 1.5). The staff is provided with a 1.5 m main scale having least count of 1 mm, 2.5 mm
or 3.33 mm depending on the type of scale used. Principally, when one staff is raised above
the other, actually the water remains stationary, but the tube and staff with scale moves. By
observing the difference of water level readings on the staffs, the level difference between
the two staff location can be determined accurately (Fig. 1.1 & 1.5). If contour points are to
be marked on-site, the two staff readings need to be exactly same – indicating equi-level
points i.e. contour points.
Unlike the costlier, cumbersome and skilled-labour intensive conventional leveling
instruments, the Contour Marker does not require any temporary or permanent adjustments.
Moreover, it can be used in all weather (sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike the
12
traditional leveling instruments. It is made with sustainable recyclable material i.e. PVC,
which is rugged, durable light-weight and shock-proof (safe).
Fig. 1.5 Schematics of Contour Marker: (a) Contour Marker (Present Model in Market)
(b) Staff Scale (c) Laymen Using Contour Marker in Field to Mark Direct Contours
(d) Continuous Contour Trenching (C.C.T) Carried out Using CM (Forest Dept., MH)
STAFF
TUBE
FILLED
WITH
WATER
VALVE
(a)
(b)
(c)
(d)
13
General Design Aspects of Contour Marker -
Appropriate Technology based simple design suited for grass-root level applications as
well as accurate engineering leveling work
The staff-scale has been improved and made easily readable compared to the 1968 model
A micro-slider scale is newly introduced to take accurate readings of 1 mm least count
Light-weight, durable and sustainable material (PVC) is used instead of
steel/aluminum/wood
Manufacturing and maintenance cost is relatively lower than traditional equipments
It is simple to make. Anybody can make it even at home with consideration to following
points:
(a) Both the ‘zeros’ of the measuring scale on the staffs at bottom should match
accurately
(b) There should be no air bubble in the pipe during operation
(c) Both ends of pipes should be open to air and there should not be any bends in pipe
when in use
(d) Readings should be taken with reference to the lower-meniscus of water in the
tube, with eyes of the operator being leveled with the water-level
Utility of Contour Marker -
a) Civil Engineering: Leveling for infrastructure projects, building construction, irrigation
projects, etc. To check levels of foundation trenches, gradient of drainage lines, levels of
centering for slabs, slope of flooring, invert-levels for formworks, L-Sections, road
gradients, etc.
b) Agriculture: For contour farming, lift irrigation and canal grading, etc.
c) Environmental: For soil and water conservation through direct contouring i.e. Continuous
Contour Trenching (C.C.T.), etc.
More uses of CM are presented in Fig. 1.6 (A, B & C).
14
Fig. 1.6 (A) Utility of Contour Marker
15
Fig. 1.6 (B) Utility of Contour Marker – Old Advertisement of Contour Marker, 1994-95
16
Fig. 1.6 (C) Utility of Contour Marker – Old Advertisement of Contour Marker, 1995-96
17
Tab
le-1
.1. C
om
pari
son
of
Con
tou
r M
ark
er
an
d D
um
py/A
uto
Lev
el
18
Advantages of Contour Marker -
(a) CM has a least count of 1 mm, relatively less than that of Dumpy and Auto Levels (5
mm). Thus, CM has relatively the highest degree of accuracy than the Dumpy and Auto
Levels.
(b) New Contour Marker has greater accuracy (Avg. accuracy = 0.01%, ± 1 mm/100 m)
compared to the older models and traditional leveling instruments such as dumpy level
and laser level (Avg. accuracy = 0.05%, ± 5 mm/100 m).
(c) New Contour Marker has lower least count (1 mm) than older model (2.5 mm and 3.33
mm) and traditional leveling instruments (5 mm).
(d) New Contour Marker can be used by a layman/semi-skilled labour thus relieving an
engineer for other important work.
(e) New Contour Marker is made with sustainable material i.e. PVC. i.e. rugged, light-weight
and shock-proof.
(f) New Contour Marker can be used in all weather (sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike
the traditional leveling instruments.
(g) No temporary or permanent adjustments are need, unlike Dumpy/Auto levels. Auto
Levels need to be calibrated at least once a year or when unit has been dropped or hit. It
is also sensitive to vibrations.
(h) New Contour Marker can be manufactured locally and even at home; it is therefore
relatively cheap (Rs. 200 to Rs. 2000), compared to Dumpy (Rs. 8000-Rs. 15,000) and Auto
(Rs. 12,000 to 20,000) Levels.
Comparison of Contour Marker and Dumpy/Auto Level is presented in Table-1.1.
Quality Control and Care in using CM -
(a) Both the ‘zeros’ of the measuring scale on the staffs at bottom should match accurately,
Fig. 1.7
(b) There should be no air bubble in the pipe during operation
(c) Both ends of pipes should be open to air when in use
(d) The pipe should be bend/kink-free when in use
(e) Readings should be taken with reference to the lower-meniscus of water in the tube, with
eyes of the operator being leveled with the water-level, Fig. 1.7
19
Fig. 1.7 Important Design Parameter in Contour Marker
(Both the ‘zeros’ of the measuring scale on the staffs at bottom should match accurately
i.e. Z and Y, should be accurately measured and set while manufacturing CM)
Important Tip
Read Lower Meniscus
27.66
cm
20
1.3 Problem Statement
Presently, the commercially available Contour Marker is having the following disadvantages;
a) There is generally a lack of Quality Control in manufacturing CM currently in the
market. A considerable error was observed in the calibration of CM. The Z distance (Fig.
1.7) at the bottom of both the staff was found to be varying by about 1-3 mm. This
distance (Z) need to be exactly same for both the staves for accurate and reliable
measurement. The project team has eliminated this error in manufacturing of CM.
b) Current and older models of CM had a least count of 3.33 mm (which is an odd figure to
record) and 2.5 mm, respectively. The project team has tried to improve the least count to
1 mm by providing a micro-slider scale, discussed later.
c) Older and current models of CM are fabricated using wooden/light gauge steel/aluminum
staves, which have a relatively large carbon-foot print. The project team has suggested
using rugged recycled/sustainable material i.e. PVC box staves, thereby making the new
improved CM eco-friendly, light-weight and also safe from electrical shock.
1.4 Project Objectives and Scope
The basic objectives of this project were;
(a) To introduce the newly improved Contour Marker to engineers for various applications in
leveling work pertaining to construction, irrigation, agriculture and environmental projects.
(b) The study aims at validating the improved Contour Marker for its accuracy by comparing
its performance with the traditional leveling instruments like Dumpy/Auto Level.
(c) A micro-slider scale that slides over the staff is newly introduced, which has reduced the
least count of the instrument from 3.33 mm (odd figure to record) to 1 mm, thus making
the new Contour Marker more accurate.
(d) Minimize or eliminate the manufacturing error (distance Z, Fig. 1.7) in CM.
(e) The team aims at making the new and improved CM model presented here commercially
viable and is first time modified to suite Civil – construction industry application which
requires greater measuring accuracy close to 1 mm.
21
The scope of this work is limited to few comparative tests of differential leveling using
traditional Auto Level, current model and new-improved model of CM. Extensive tests are
out of the scope for the presented report, but are planned in the future work.
22
CHAPTER 2
SPECIFICATIONS AND WORKING OF CONTOUR MARKER
2.1 Specification of Contour Marker
The general specifications of old and the latest commercially available CM are given in
Table 2.1.
Table 2.1 Specifications of Commercially Available Contour Marker
Item Old Model
(1992-2001)
Current Model
(2012-13)
Improved Model
(Present Study, 2013)
Staff/Scale Height, (m) 1 and 1.5 1.5 1.5
Staff Material Wood, Aluminum
(Heavy Gauge)
Aluminum
(Light Gauge)
PVC, Aluminum,
(Light Gauge)
Weight, w/o water, (Kgs) 6.5 5.0 4.3 [4.8 (w/water)]
Tube Length, (m) 15 and 30 15 and 30 15 and 30
Least Count, (mm) 2.5 3.33 1
Micro-Slider Scale N.A. N.A. Provided
Cost, (Rs.) 100 - 1500 200 - 2500 Aprox. 2,200
Fig. 2.1 shows the new improved model of CM with a micro-slider scale that reads upto 1
mm accuracy. Fig. 2.2 and 2.3 shows the schematics of the improved CM.
The project team fabricated two Improved Contour Markers (ICM), namely (α-β) and (θ-δ)
with micro-slider scale. (α-β) ICM was made using the traditional Aluminum staves while
(θ-δ) ICM was made using two different materials – one staff of PVC and the other of heavy
Aluminum.
23
Fig. 2.1 Improved Contour Marker with Micro-Slider Scale (L.C. = 1 mm), VIIT, (2013)
Contour Marker: Improved New Model (VIIT, Pune)
Micro-Slider Scale (L.C.=1 mm)
24
Fig. 2.2 Schematics of the Improved Contour Marker with Micro-Slider Scale, VIIT, (2013)
25
Fig
. 2.3
Sch
emati
cs o
f th
e Im
pro
ved
Con
tou
r M
ark
er w
ith
Mic
ro-S
lid
er S
cale
, V
IIT
, (2
013)
26
2.2 Leveling Using Contour Marker
The general procedure of carrying out leveling work using the CM is described below.
(A) Setting Up the CM -
Step-1: Unwind the CM staves and open-up the pipe bundle. The next step is to fill water in the CM.
Fig. 2.4 CM Ready to be Used (Water not Filled)
Step-2: To fill water in CM, remove the pipe ends with the cock on both the staves out about 1 m.
Fig. 2.5 Removing Pipe Ends Out to Fill Water
27
Step-3: With both cocks closed, insert one end of the pipe into a bucketful of water. Open the cocks
and suck water out of the other end. Siphon action will fill up the pipe completely with water.
Let all the air in the pipe escape out. Close the cocks. Place the staves of CM together and
notice that the pipe if now full of water and without any air bubbles. See Fig. 2.6.
Fig. 2.6 Filling Water in CM
Step-4: To bring the water in the pipes about half-way of the staves (i.e. at about 80 – 100 cm
readings), so as to take readings; open the two cocks and lift one of the staff up as shown in Fig. 2.7
allowing water to pour out of the lower staff. Bring the staves together. Check the water levels in the
staves to be at the desired level. Place the staves together on a fairly leveled surface (i.e. table,
tiled-floor etc.) and record the readings. The lower meniscus readout is to be taken. If the readings
are exactly the same, it means that the CM is in perfect adjustment or has accurate zero-setting. The
instrument is now ready to use for leveling or contouring work.
Fig. 2.7 Removing Water Partially from CM and Checking the Zero-Setting of CM
28
(B) Fly Leveling Using CM –
To determine the level difference between two point say A and B (Fig. 2.8); Closing out leveling
i.e. A to B and back from B to A. Thus error can be estimated from the closing-out method.
Fig. 2.8 Fly Leveling Using CM
ALPHA
BETA
B
A
“Fly Leveling Using Contour Marker
29
Once the initial setting of CM is done, place any one staff on point A and the other on point B. If the
distance between A and B is less than the available length of the pipe i.e. about 15 m., then the work
can be carried out in one single step. Else, staff readings of multiple intermediate points needs to be
taken. Following precautions are to be taken while using CM;
Both the ‘zeros’ of the measuring scale on the staffs at bottom should match accurately
There should be no air bubble in the pipe during operation
Both ends of pipes should be open to air and there should not be any bends in pipe when in use
Readings should be taken with reference to the lower-meniscus of water in the tube, with eyes of
the operator being leveled with the water-level
Record the two staff readings. Difference between the two readings is the level difference between
the two points A and B (VAB). Example is shown in Fig. 2.8. Use of ‘Rise-&-Fall’ method can be
used to log the leveling observations. Percentage Slope between points A and B can also be
determined. Horizontal distance (HAB) can be measured by admeasuring tape distance between the
water levels of the two staves. Then, % Slope between A and B = [VAB / HAB ] x 100.
Fig. 2.9 Finding the Difference in Levels between Two Points Using CM
Y (mm)
X (mm)
Height of Drum
= (X-Y) (mm)
Height of Drum =
Difference in the Staff Readings =
(X-Y) = (1500 – 600) mm
= 900 mm
30
2.3 Direct Contouring Using Contour Marker
The process starts from top of the hill. Contour marker is the instrument for laying of contour
and marking of contour line at calculated contour integral. One staff member at one point and
another staff member at fullest length which is roughly 12-15 meter should start at the top of
hill. One staff remains stationary while the other staff moves until the staff reading are exactly
the same at both points. These are the contour points. "Whole-to-Part" approach must be used.
In this method, error is minimized or avoided completely and check is obtained. All points are
then marked with a smooth line or by putting a small peg to avoid confusion.
Fig. 2.10 Soil & Water Conservation: (C.C.T.) Marked using C.M.
(Photos Courtesy Forest Dept., Maharashtra)
31
See Fig. 2.10-11 for some examples of direct contouring (C.C.T.) carried out by CM lacks of
hectares of barren land in the various states throughout India.
Fig. 2.11 Soil & Water Conservation: (C.C.T.) Marked using C.M.
(Photos Courtesy Forest Dept., Maharashtra)
32
CHAPTER 3
EXPERIMENTS USING CONTOUR MARKER
3.1 Methodology of Experimental Tests
The project team carried various tests (differential and fly leveling) using the conventional
market model of CM, Improved Contour Marker (ICM) and the Auto Level (AL).
Comparison of the results is discussed in details. The experimental program consisted of the
following (Fig. 3.1):
1) Determination of Table height – Using CM, ICM and AL.
2) Determination of Staircase height - Using CM, ICM and AL.
3) Determination of G+2 Building height - Using CM, ICM and AL.
4) Deferential Leveling between two points on Sloping Ground - Using CM, ICM and AL.
The experiments applied “Rise-&-Fall” method for recording of leveling readings.
Fig. 3.1 Leveling Experiments Using CM, ICM and AL, VIIT
33
3.2 Experimental Results
The results of various leveling experiments using CM, ICM and AL are presented in this
section. Table 3.1 presents the measurement readings of table height found out using CM and
ICM. Measurements are also compared with actual height of table measured using a tape.
Table 3.1 Measurement of Height of Table using Tape, CM, ICM
TITLE: HEIGHT OF TABLE DATE: 25-2-13
TIME: 4:30 PM PLACE: D-001, VIIT
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 76 cm
CONTOUR MARKER
NO. STAFF - CM B.S. F.S. DIFFERENCE REMARK TIME ERROR % ERROR
(cm)
1
(A) α - β 91.66 15.66 76 W/O SLIDER
57" 0 0% 1
(B) β - α 90 14 76 W/O SLIDER
1
(A) α - β 91.8 15.6 76.2 WITH SLIDER
1' 7" 0.1 0.13% 1
(B) β - α 90 14 76 WITH SLIDER
2
(A) α - β 91 15 76 W/O SLIDER
45" 0.5 0.66% 2
(B) β - α 89.33 14.33 75 W/O SLIDER
2
(A) α - β 91.3 15.3 76 WITH SLIDER
1' 3" 0.5 0.66% 2
(B) β - α 89.7 14.7 75 WITH SLIDER
AVERAGE WORK TIME: 58"
AVERAGE ERROR W/O SLIDER: 0.25 cm
AVERAGE % ERROR W/O SLIDER: 0.33%
AVERAGE ERROR WITH SLIDER: 0.3 cm
AVERAGE % ERROR WITH SLIDER: 0.4%
NO DIFFERENCE WITH AND WITHOUT SLIDER
34
NO. B.S. I.S. F.S. RISE FALL H.I. Ht. (m) TIME ERROR %ERROR
1 3.115 1.8 1.315 1.8 3'15' 3.2cm 1.81%
2 3.18 1.8 1.38 1.8 1'2" 3.2cm 1.81%
3 3.305 1.8 1.505 1.8 1'51" 3.2cm 1.81%
AVERAGE ERROR = 3.2 cm
AVERAGE % ERROR = 1.81%
AVERAGE TIME = 2'3"
AUTO LEVEL
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 176.8 CM
TIME : 4:00 PM PLACE: D- BUILDING TOP STAIR,VIIT
TITLE: HEIGHT OF STAIRCASE DATE : 26-2-13
NO. CHAINAGE B.S. F.S. DIFFERENCE REMARK HEIGHT TIME ERROR % ERROR
1 α - β 127.33 53.66 73.67 W/O SLIDER
β - α 38 143.66 105.66 W/O SLIDER
α - β 141.66 36.66 105 W/O SLIDER
β - α 54.33 128 73.67 W/O SLIDER
2 α - β 127.3 53.8 73.5 WITH SLIDER
β - α 38 143.7 105.7 WITH SLIDER
α - β 141.6 36.1 105.5 WITH SLIDER
β - α 54.5 128 73.5 WITH SLIDER
A TO B B TO A ERROR REMARK
WITH SLIDER 179.2 179 2 MM
W/O SLIDER 179.33 178.67 0.66 MM
3 α - β 128.33 54.33 74 W/O SLIDER
β - α 36 141.66 105.66 W/O SLIDER
α - β 143.33 37.33 106 W/O SLIDER
β - α 53.33 126.66 73.33 W/O SLIDER
4 α - β 128.2 54.3 73.9 WITH SLIDER
β - α 36 141.5 105.5 WITH SLIDER
α - β 143.3 37.7 105.6 WITH SLIDER
β - α 53.3 126.8 73.5 WITH SLIDER
A TO B B TO A ERROR REMARK
WITH SLIDER 179.4 179.1 3 MM
W/O SLIDER 179.66 179.33 0.33 MM EQUAL TO L.C.
2.45 CM 1.39
2.4 CM 1.36
25 % IMPROVEMENT OF CONTOUR MARKER. NO EFFECT OF SLIDER
358.5/2=179.25 1'30" 2.5 CM 1.41
AVERAGE ERROR WITH SLIDER
AVERAGE ERROR W/O SLIDER1'58"
358.2/2=179.1 1'34" 2.3 CM 1.3
358.99/2=179.5 1'17" 2.7 CM 1.52
CONTOUR MARKER
2.2 CM1'33" 1.24358/2=179
Table 3.2 Measurement of Height of Stair using Tape, CM, ICM & AL
35
5 θ - δ 52 125.2 73.2 WITH SLIDER
δ - θ 141.2 36.1 105.1 WITH SLIDER
θ - δ 34.7 140.1 105.4 WITH SLIDER
δ - θ 124.8 52 72.8 WITH SLIDER
6 θ - δ 52 125.33 73.33 W/O SLIDER
δ - θ 141.33 36 105.33 W/O SLIDER
θ - δ 34.66 140 105.34 W/O SLIDER
δ - θ 124.66 52 72.66 W/O SLIDER
A TO B B TO A ERROR REMARK
WITH SLIDER 178.3 178.2 1 MM EQUAL TO L.C.
W/O SLIDER 178.6 177.99 6.7 MM > L.C
7 θ - δ 124.8 52 72.8 WITH SLIDER
δ - θ 34.5 139.9 105.4 WITH SLIDER
θ - δ 140.4 39.4 101 WITH SLIDER
δ - θ 52 125.1 73.1 WITH SLIDER
8 θ - δ 124.66 52 72.66 W/O SLIDER
δ - θ 34.66 140 105.34 W/O SLIDER
θ - δ 140.33 34.66 105.67 W/O SLIDER
δ - θ 52 125 73 W/O SLIDER
A TO B B TO A ERROR REMARK
WITH SLIDER 178.2 174.1 4.1 MM
W/O SLIDER 178 178.67 0.67 MM
1.52 CM 0.86%
1.535 CM 0.87%
0.977 % IMPROVEMENT IN SLIDER THAN WITHOUT SLIDER
356.67/2=178.34 2'29" 1.54 0.871041
AVERAGE ERROR WITH SLIDER 2'29"
AVERAGE ERROR W/O SLIDER
356.8/2=178.4 2'29" 1.6 0.904977
SLIDER IMPROVEMENT IS 85%
356.5/2=178.25 2'29" 1.45 0.820136
356.66/2=178.33 2'29" 1.53 0.865385
TITLE: HEIGHT OF STAIRCASE DATE : 1-3-13
TIME : 4:00 PM PLACE: D- BUILDING TOP STAIR,VIIT
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 176.8 CM
Table 3.2 Measurement of Height of Stair using Tape, CM, ICM & AL (continued …)
36
NO. B.S. I.S. F.S. RISE FALL HT. (M) REMARK TIME ERROR %ERROR
1 1.4 0 START POINT
1.37 3.2 1.8 1.8 CP1
1.095 2.885 1.515 3.315 CP2
1.07 2.9 1.805 5.12 CP3
1.04 2.895 1.825 6.945 CP4
1.9 0.86 7.805 END POINT
2 1.41 0 START POINT
1.405 3.205 1.795 1.795 CP1
1.095 2.915 1.51 3.305 CP2
1.095 2.905 1.81 5.115 CP3
1.07 2.925 1.83 6.945 CP4
1.925 0.855 7.8 END POINT
0.67
AVERAGE ERROR = 5 cm
AVERAGE % ERROR = 0.636
AVERAGE TIME = 12'12"
AUTO LEVEL
TITLE: HEIGHT OF BUILDING DATE : 27-2-13
TIME : 4:00 PM PLACE: D- BUILDING,VIIT
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 785.25 CM
9'15" 4.75 CM 0.6
15'10" 5.25
NO. CHAINAGE B.S. F.S. DIFFERENCE REMARK HEIGHT ERROR % ERROR REMARK
1 (A TO B) α - β 61.66 63.66 2 W/O SLIDER
β - α 15.66 109.33 93.67 W/O SLIDER
α - β 107.33 19.33 88 W/O SLIDER
β - α 62 63.66 1.66 W/O SLIDER
α - β 109 19.66 89.34 W/O SLIDER
β - α 16.66 106.33 89.67 W/O SLIDER
α - β 116.66 11.66 105 W/O SLIDER
β - α 24.66 100 75.34 W/O SLIDER
α - β 109 18 91 W/O SLIDER
β - α 16 108.33 92.33 W/O SLIDER
α - β 91.66 36.66 55 W/O SLIDER
2 (A TO B) α - β 61.7 63.7 2 WITH SLIDER
β - α 15.8 109.3 93.5 WITH SLIDER
α - β 107.6 19.4 88.2 WITH SLIDER
β - α 62.1 63.6 1.5 WITH SLIDER
α - β 108.9 19.7 89.2 WITH SLIDER
β - α 16.7 106.6 89.9 WITH SLIDER
α - β 116.6 11.7 104.9 WITH SLIDER
β - α 24.8 100 75.2 WITH SLIDER
α - β 108.9 18 90.9 WITH SLIDER
β - α 15.9 108.3 92.4 WITH SLIDER
α - β 91.5 36.9 54.6 WITH SLIDER
3 (B TO A) α - β 36 90.33 54.33 W/O SLIDER
β - α 109.33 17.33 92 W/O SLIDER
α - β 15.66 107 91.34 W/O SLIDER
β - α 100.33 25.66 74.67 W/O SLIDER
α - β 9.66 115.66 106 W/O SLIDER
β - α 108 18.66 89.34 W/O SLIDER
α - β 16.66 107.66 91 W/O SLIDER
β - α 107.66 18.33 89.33 W/O SLIDER
α - β 15 107.66 92.66 W/O SLIDER
β - α 61.66 63.66 2 W/O SLIDER
0.328558
CONTOUR MARKER TIME: 15'50"
782.67 2.58
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 785.25 CM
783.01 2.18 0.277619
782.3 2.95 0.375677
TITLE: HEIGHT OF BUILDING DATE : 27-2-13
TIME : 4:00 PM PLACE: D- BUILDING,VIIT
Table 3.3 Measurement of Height of Building using Tape, CM, ICM & AL
37
4 (B TO A) α - β 36 91.4 55.4 WITH SLIDER
β - α 109.4 17.5 91.9 WITH SLIDER
α - β 15.5 106.9 91.4 WITH SLIDER
β - α 100.5 25.5 75 WITH SLIDER
α - β 9.8 115.5 105.7 WITH SLIDER
β - α 107.7 18.7 89 WITH SLIDER
α - β 16.7 107.5 90.8 WITH SLIDER
β - α 107.6 18.7 88.9 WITH SLIDER
α - β 15 107.7 92.7 WITH SLIDER
β - α 62.9 63.8 0.9 WITH SLIDER
5 (A TO B) α - β 61.33 63.33 2 W/O SLIDER
β - α 15.66 108.66 93 W/O SLIDER
α - β 109.33 19.33 90 W/O SLIDER
β - α 17 107 90 W/O SLIDER
α - β 108 19 89 W/O SLIDER
β - α 9.66 115.33 105.67 W/O SLIDER
α - β 101.66 26.66 75 W/O SLIDER
β - α 17 108.33 91.33 W/O SLIDER
α - β 110.33 18.33 92 W/O SLIDER
β - α 35.66 90.33 54.67 W/O SLIDER
6 (A TO B) α - β 61.5 63.8 2.3 WITH SLIDER
β - α 15.6 108.4 92.8 WITH SLIDER
α - β 109.2 19.5 89.7 WITH SLIDER
β - α 17 107.1 90.1 WITH SLIDER
α - β 108 19 89 WITH SLIDER
β - α 9.8 115.2 105.4 WITH SLIDER
α - β 101.6 26.9 74.7 WITH SLIDER
β - α 17 108.6 91.6 WITH SLIDER
α - β 110.4 18.5 91.9 WITH SLIDER
β - α 35.8 90.5 54.7 WITH SLIDER
7 (B TO A) α - β 91.33 37 54.33 W/O SLIDER
β - α 16 107.66 91.66 W/O SLIDER
α - β 108.33 17.66 90.67 W/O SLIDER
β - α 24.33 99.33 75 W/O SLIDER
α - β 115.66 10.33 105.33 W/O SLIDER
β - α 16.66 106.33 89.67 W/O SLIDER
α - β 107.33 18 89.33 W/O SLIDER
β - α 17 107 90 W/O SLIDER
α - β 109.33 16.66 92.67 W/O SLIDER
β - α 63.66 62 1.66 W/O SLIDER
8 (B TO A) α - β 91.2 37 54.2 WITH SLIDER
β - α 16 107.7 91.7 WITH SLIDER
α - β 108.4 17.4 91 WITH SLIDER
β - α 24.1 99.2 75.1 WITH SLIDER
α - β 115.6 10.6 105 WITH SLIDER
β - α 16.8 106.4 89.6 WITH SLIDER
α - β 107.2 18 89.2 WITH SLIDER
β - α 17 106.9 89.9 WITH SLIDER
α - β 109.2 16.7 92.5 WITH SLIDER
β - α 63.8 62 1.8 WITH SLIDER
0.452085781.7 3.55
782.67 2.58 0.328558
780 5.25 0.668577
782.2 3.05 0.388411
780.32 4.93 0.627826
Table 3.3 Measurement of Height of Building using Tape, CM, ICM & AL (contd….)
38
TITLE: ELEVATION BETWEEN TWO POINTS FROM WORKSHOP TO E BUILDING DATE : 3-3-13
NO. B.S. I.S. F.S. RISE FALL R.L. REMARK
1 (A TO B) 1.43 100 BM
2.25 0.13 1.3 101.3 CP 1
0.57 1.68 102.98 END POINT
2 (B TO A) 0.94 100 BM
1.91 0.97 99.03
0.725 2.915 1.015 98.015 CP 1
1.725 1 97.015 END POINT
V = 2.9825 m
H = 111.8 m
%Slope = 100(V/H) = 2.70%
AUTO LEVEL
TIME : 4:00 PM
MEASUREMENT BY TAPE = 785.25 CM
A - B : 2.98 m
B - A : 2.985 mTIME: 21'55"
NO. CHAINAGEHORIZONTAL
DISTANCE(m)B.S. F.S DIFFERENCE
HEIGHT
cmREMARK
1 W - A 7.75 78.2 94 15.8 WITH SLIDER
A - B 11.8 103.3 68.7 34.6 WITH SLIDER
B - C 6.3 73 97.7 24.7 WITH SLIDER
C - D 6.35 96.4 73.6 22.8 WITH SLIDER
D - E 11.15 71 100.7 29.7 WITH SLIDER
E - F 11.65 101.5 68.9 32.6 WITH SLIDER
F - G 10.9 66.7 103.9 37.2 WITH SLIDER
G - H 11.1 105.8 64.1 41.7 WITH SLIDER
H - I 9.8 66.4 103.4 37 WITH SLIDER
I - J 10.9 91.5 77.8 13.7 WITH SLIDER
J - K 7.9 79.5 88.8 9.3 WITH SLIDER
K - L 6.25 81.2 87.1 5.9 WITH SLIDER
2 L - K 6.35 87.2 81.3 5.9 WITH SLIDER
K - J 7.85 88.9 79.2 9.7 WITH SLIDER
J - I 11.1 78 90.8 12.8 WITH SLIDER
I - H 9.9 103.2 65.8 37.4 WITH SLIDER
H - G 11.05 63.8 105 41.2 WITH SLIDER
G - F 10.9 103 65.6 37.4 WITH SLIDER
F - E 11.5 68 100.7 32.7 WITH SLIDER
E - D 11.1 99.1 69.7 29.4 WITH SLIDER
D - C 6.25 72.9 95.2 22.3 WITH SLIDER
C - B 6.3 71.6 97.4 25.8 WITH SLIDER
B - A 11.85 101.7 67 34.7 WITH SLIDER
A - W 7.65 76.4 92.7 16.3 WITH SLIDER
VERTICAL DISTANCE = 305 cm
GRADIENT = 2.73 %
305.6
CONTOUR MARKER BY θ - δ
TIME : 40' 56"
HORIZONTAL DISTANCE = 111.8 m
VERTICAL DISTANCE = 3.056 m
GRADIENT = 2.75%
305 cm
HORIZONTAL DISTANCE = 111.85 m
Table 3.4 Elevation between Two Points using CM, ICM & AL
39
3 W - A 7.75 78.33 93.33 15 W/O SLIDER
A - B 11.8 103.33 68.66 34.67 W/O SLIDER
B - C 6.3 73 97.66 24.66 W/O SLIDER
C - D 6.35 96.33 73.66 22.67 W/O SLIDER
D - E 11.15 71 100.33 29.33 W/O SLIDER
E - F 11.65 101.66 69 32.66 W/O SLIDER
F - G 10.9 66.66 104 37.34 W/O SLIDER
G - H 11.1 106 64 42 W/O SLIDER
H - I 9.8 66.33 103.33 37 W/O SLIDER
I - J 10.9 91.33 77.66 13.67 W/O SLIDER
J - K 7.9 79.33 88.66 9.33 W/O SLIDER
K - L 6.25 81 87 6 W/O SLIDER
4 L - K 6.35 87 81.33 5.67 W/O SLIDER
K - J 7.85 89 79.33 9.67 W/O SLIDER
J - I 11.1 78 90.66 12.66 W/O SLIDER
I - H 9.9 103 65.66 37.34 W/O SLIDER
H - G 11.05 63.66 105 41.34 W/O SLIDER
G - F 10.9 103 65.66 37.34 W/O SLIDER
F - E 11.5 68 100.66 32.66 W/O SLIDER
E - D 11.1 99 69.66 29.34 W/O SLIDER
D - C 6.25 73 95 22 W/O SLIDER
C - B 6.3 71.66 97.33 25.67 W/O SLIDER
B - A 11.85 101.66 67 34.66 W/O SLIDER
A - W 7.65 76.33 92.33 16 W/O SLIDER
GRADIENT = 2.72%
ERROR WITH SLIDER = 305.6 - 305 = 0.6 cm = 6 mm > 1 mm i.e. L.C.
ERROR W/O SLIDER = 304.35 - 304.33 = 0.02 cm = 0.2 mm < 3.33 mm i.e. L.C.
VERTICAL DISTANCE = 304.33
GRADIENT = 2.72 %
304.35
HORIZONTAL DISTANCE = 111.8
VERTICAL DISTANCE = 304.35
304.33
HORIZONTAL DISTANCE = 111.85
Table 3.4 Elevation between Two Points using CM, ICM & AL (contd….)
40
CHAPTER 4
CONCLUSIONS
Following conclusions can be made from this project;
1) Contour Marker is a versatile, accurate and simple leveling instrument for laymen, farmers,
technicians and engineers to carry out reliable, fast (case-dependent) and low cost leveling work.
2) Contour Marker does not require any temporary or permanent adjustments. Moreover, it can be
used in all weather (sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike the traditional leveling instruments.
3) The Contour Marker available in market has some “zero-setting” error. This was effectively
rectified in the project. Additionally, use of eco-friendly recyclable PVC material was
demonstrated and recommended for the future manufacturing of Improved Contour Marker.
Since, it is made with PVC; it is rugged, durable light-weight and shock-proof (safe).
4) Within the preview of the limited tests carried out, the preliminary tests results indicate that the
improved Contour Marker with micro-slider scale offers little to about 10 % more accuracy over
the old Contour Marker model. The accuracy of Contour Marker is improved with the introduction
of the micro-slider only upto certain extent. Additionally, the Contour Marker was observed to
have less error than the Auto Level.
5) More rigorous and extensive testing is required to be done to draw meaningful and reliable
conclusions pertaining to the accuracy of Contour Marker, Improved Contour Marker and Auto
Level.
Thus, the newly modified Improved Contour Marker presented in this project is more accurate,
easy-to-use, economical, shock-proof (i.e. safe), eco-friendly and all-weather rugged leveling
instrument. We strongly believe that the improved Contour Marker is a genuinely useful leveling
instrument for the engineers.
Future Work:
1) Improved Micro-Slider Scale (Stainless steel/Aluminum)
2) Electronic Contour Marker with direct digital readout and sound/alarm for contouring.
41
References
1) Dhonde, B. K., “Technical Specifications of Farm Contour Marker,” Indian Patent Application,
Pune, 1969.
2) Dhonde, B. K., “Lift Irrigation – Design Manual” (Book in Maharathi), Sun Publication, Pune,
1999, (ISBN-81-87002-35-2).
3) Dhonde, J. B., Contour Marker and Continuous Contour Trenching (C.C.T.) - Training
Materials and Personal Notes (Published/Unpublished), 1992-1997, Pune.
4) University of Pune, NSS Scheme;
http://www.unipune.ac.in/other_academic_and_service_units/national_service_scheme/nss_webf
iles/WatershedCCT.htm
5) Sadgir, P. A., Patil, G. K., and Takalkar, V. G., “Sustainable Watershed Development by Refilled
Continuous Contour Trenching Technology”, National Seminar on Rainwater Harvesting and
Water Management, Nagpur, Maharashtra, 11-12 November, pp. 331-338, 2006.
(http://portal.unesco.org/geography/es/files/6192/11690988835Accepted_Papers_-_3.pdf/Accept
ed%2BPapers%2B-%2B3.pdf)
6) “The Making of Contour Marker”, Chhattishadhiya, 2011:
http://chhattisgadhiya.wordpress.com/2011/06/28/low-cost-contour-marker/
7) Punmia, B. C. et al., “Surveying”, Vol.-1, 2, Laxmi Publishing Pvt. Ltd., ND., 2005.
General Search Engines used: 1) www.google.com 2) www.wikipedia.com
42
APPENDIX-I
43
1) Competition: SHODH
2) Group: D
3) Section: D1
4) College Name: Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology, Kondhwa-Bk., Pune-48
5) Names of participants:
S.E. Civil -
Choudekar Gayatri S.
Biradar Snehal B.
Wani Paresh
Sura Rajdip S.
Tathe Kaushik
6) Name of the Guide : Prof. (Dr.) Hemant B. Dhonde
7) Project Title: Contour Marker - A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instrument for Engineers
8) Working Principle: Contour Marker is based on the principle of an open U-Tube Manometer i.e.
water level in an open-ended u-tube remains at equal level due to same atmospheric pressure. By
observing the difference of water level readings on the staffs, the level difference between the two
staff location can be determined accurately.
9) Abstract: Contour Marker is a versatile, economical and user-friendly instrument which a
semi-skilled person or a layman can use for accurate leveling work. Whereas, to operate
the costlier traditional leveling instruments (i.e. Dumpy/Auto Level, Laser Level etc.) a
skilled-technician or an engineer is required. Thus, Contour Marker can relieve an
engineer from the leveling work thereby saving valuable time and money. A newly added
micro-slider scale provides a least count of 1 mm in new model, for accurate leveling
instead of 3.33 mm in older model. Engineering validation of Contour Marker with
traditional leveling instruments i.e. Dumpy/Auto Level is provided in this study.
10) Applications:
Civil: Leveling for infrastructure projects, building construction, irrigation projects, etc.
Agriculture: For contour farming, lift irrigation and canal grading, etc.
Environmental: For soil and water conservation through direct contouring i.e.
Continuous Contour Trenching (CCT), etc.
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013
44
PROJECT QUESTIONNAIRE
Project title: Contour Marker – A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instrument for Engineers
Institution Name: Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology, Kondhwa Bk., Pune 411 048
Institute Code: 039
1. How did you conceive idea of this project?
We conceived this idea from our faculty (Dr. H. B. Dhonde) and from an online article on Watershed
Management (Ref: http://www.unipune.ac.in/other_academic_and_service_units/national_service_scheme/)
2. What is the specific area of application of your project?
The Contour Marker has various applications as listed below:
a) Civil: Leveling for infrastructure projects, building construction, irrigation projects, etc.
b) Agriculture: For contour farming, lift irrigation and canal grading, etc.
c) Environmental: For soil and water conservation through direct contouring i.e.
Continuous Contour Trenching (CCT), etc.
If yes, what is value addition?
Yes, iContour Marker is based on the principle of an “Open U-Tube Manometer” and the invention made by
Prof. B. K. Dhonde in 1967. The value addition or improvements are as follows:
(a) A newly added micro-slider scale provides a least count of 1 mm in new model, for accurate leveling instead of
3.33 mm in older model. The user has a choice of using either 1 or 3.33 mm least count depending on the nature
of the work.
(b) Improved material – PVC staff is used, replacing conventionally used wooden staff for enhanced quality and
durability.
(c) Engineering validation of Contour Marker with traditional leveling instruments i.e. Dumpy/Auto Level is
provided.
4. Is it a solution to industry problem or society need?
Contour Marker is a versatile, economical and user-friendly instrument which a semi-skilled person or a layman
can use for accurate leveling work. Whereas, to operate the costlier traditional leveling instruments (i.e. Dumpy
Level, Laser Level etc.) a skilled-technician or an engineer is required. Thus, Contour Marker can relieve an
engineer from the leveling work thereby saving valuable time and money. Contour Marker can save construction
time and allow appropriate allocation of labour for leveling work. Many NGO’s nationwide have trained
villagers and school kids in using Contour Marker for soil and water conservation work (C.C.T.) thus
establishing the significant social impact of Contour Marker in India at grass-root level.
45
5. On what parameters, you have tested performance of project? e.g. cost/ energy savvy, environmental
aspect, etc.)
Accuracy- Contour Marker has lower least-count (1 mm) and is found to be more accurate than traditional
leveling instruments (i.e. Dumpy Level, Laser Level, and GPS).
Cost- Material cost and working cost of contour marker is less than the traditional leveling equipments.
Energy Savvy– Contour Marker is versatile and easy-to-use leveling instrument that can save construction time
and energy.
Environmental Aspect- Contour marker is used to carry out soil and water conservation (CCT) work on
thousands of hectares of land all over India. It is also used in contour-farming which is a sustainable choice.
Appropriate Technology – Contour Marker is an appropriate technology based leveling instrument suited for
leveling jobs in civil, agricultural and soil-water conservation work at grass-root level.
6. Please comment on commercial viability of the project.
The older model of Contour Marker was commercially sold by M/S Agrovision (Proprietor- Prof. H. B. Dhonde)
from 1993-2000. Several thousand instruments were sold to NGO’s and Forest Department nationwide. The new
model presented here is also commercially viable and is first time modified to suite Civil – construction industry
application. Its future version i.e. the Electronic Contour Marker is believed to have even more commercial
potential in leveling work.
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013 Word Count = 580
46
DIPEX – SHODH – SRIJAN –ISP - 2013
SYNOPSIS OF PROJECT
1. Title (Representing basic Engineering principle or working of the model)
Contour Marker- A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instruments for Engineers
2. Working principle
It Contour Marker is based on the principle of an open U-Tube Manometer i.e. water level in an open-ended
u-tube remains at equal level due to same atmospheric pressure. Similar to a mason’s level-tube, Contour
Marker consists of two graduated staffs about 2 meter tall provided with a 15 m long, 10 mm dia. thick
transparent tube filled with water. The staff is provided with a 1.5 m main scale having least count of 3.33 mm
and a newly introduced micro-slider scale with least count of 1 mm that slides over the water tube. Principally,
when one staff is raised above the other, actually the water remains stationary, but the tube and staff with scale
moves. By observing the difference of water level readings on the staffs, the level difference between the two
staff location can be determined accurately. A set of contour point is designated on ground when the two staff
readings are exactly same.
3. Application of the model & Advantage over existing versions of the model.
a) Civil: Leveling for infrastructure projects, building construction, irrigation projects, etc. To check levels of
foundation trenches, gradient of drainage lines, levels of centering for slabs, slope of flooring, invert-levels
for formworks, L-Sections, road gradients, etc.
Agriculture: For contour farming, lift irrigation and canal grading, etc.
b) Environmental: For soil and water conservation through direct contouring i.e.
Continuous Contour Trenching (C.C.T.), etc.
Advantages:
has greater accuracy (Avg. accuracy = 0.01%) compared to the older models and traditional leveling
instruments such as dumpy level and laser level (Avg. accuracy = 0.05%).
(a) New Contour Marker has lower least count (1 mm) than older model (2.5 mm and 3.33 mm) and traditional
leveling instruments (5 mm).
(b) It does notNew Contour Marker can be used by a layman/semi-skilled labour thus relieving an engineer for
other important work.
(c) New Contour Marker is made with sustainable material i.e. PVC. i.e. rugged, light-weight and
shock-proof.
(d) New Contour Marker can be used in all weather (sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike the traditional
leveling instruments.
4. Important design aspects:
Appropriate Technology based design suited for grass-root level applications as well as accurate engineering
leveling work
The staff-scale has been improved and made easily readable
A micro-slider scale is newly introduced to take accurate readings of 1 mm least count
47
Light-weight, durable and sustainable material (PVC) is used instead of steel/aluminum/wood
Manufacturing and maintenance cost is relatively lower than traditional equipments
It is simple to make. Anybody can make it even at home with consideration to following points:
(e) Both the ‘zeros’ of the measuring scale on the staffs at bottom should match accurately
(f) There should be no air bubble in the pipe during operation
(g) Both ends of pipes should be open to air and there should not be any bends in pipe when in use
5. Justify your entry in SHODH section:
Contour Marker has been successfully used since 1970’s in agricultural and soil-water conservation jobs
throughout India at grass-root level. We want to introduce the newly improved Contour Marker to engineers for
carrying out accurate, fast and low cost leveling work. We have simply added a micro-slider scale that has
reduced the least count of the instrument to 1 mm thus making the new Contour Marker more accurate. The
main advantage of Contour Marker over the traditional leveling instruments is that it relives the engineer’s job.
Even a semi-skilled layman can carry out accurate leveling work using the Contour Marker. Therefore, we feel
that the newly improved Contour Marker is a genuinely useful instrument for the engineers.
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013 Word Count = 598
(Signature of Group Leader)
48
DIPEX – SHODH – SRIJAN –ISP - 2013
ABSTRACT
Title of the Project: Contour Marker – A Simple yet Accurate Leveling Instrument for Engineers
College: Vishwakarma Institute of Information Technology, Kondhwa Bk., Pune 411 048
Institute Code: 039
Section: SHODH
Abstract:
Contour Marker has been successfully used since 1970’s in agricultural and soil-water conservation
jobs throughout India at grass-root level. We want to introduce the newly improved Contour Marker
to engineers for carrying out accurate, fast and low cost leveling work. The main advantage of
Contour Marker over the traditional leveling instruments is that it relives the engineer’s job. Even a
semi-skilled layman can carry out accurate leveling work using the Contour Marker. Therefore, we
feel that the newly improved Contour Marker is a genuinely useful instrument for the engineers.
Contour Marker is based on the principle of an open U-Tube Manometer i.e. water level in an
open-ended u-tube remains at same level due to equal atmospheric pressure. Similar to a mason’s
level-tube, Contour Marker consists of two graduated staffs about 2 meter tall provided with a 15 m
long, 10 mm dia. thick transparent tube filled with water. The staff is provided with a 1.5 m main
scale having least count of 3.33 mm. We have simply added a micro-slider scale that slides over the
water tube which has reduced the least count of the instrument from 3.33 mm to 1 mm, thus making the new
Contour Marker more accurate.
Principally, when one staff is raised above the other, actually the water remains stationary, but the
tube and staff with scale moves. By observing the difference of water level readings on the staffs, the
level difference between the two staff location can be determined accurately. Unlike the costlier,
cumbersome and skilled-labour intensive conventional leveling instruments, the Contour Marker
does not require any temporary or permanent adjustments. Moreover, it can be used in all weather
(sun/rain/fog) day and night time, unlike the traditional leveling instruments. It is made with
sustainable recyclable material i.e. PVC. which is rugged, durable light-weight and shock-proof
(safe).
The basic objective of this project is to introduce the newly improved Contour Marker to engineers
for various applications in leveling work pertaining to construction, irrigation, agriculture and
environmental projects. The study aims at validating the improved Contour Marker for its accuracy
by comparing its performance with traditional leveling instruments like Dumpy/Auto Level.
We strongly believe that the improved Contour Marker is a genuinely useful leveling instrument for
the engineers.
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013 Word Count = 399
(Signature of Group Leader)
49
(a) (c)
Fig. 1: (a) New Improved Contour Marker (b) Staff Scale (c) Laymen using Contour
Marker in field to mark contours
Fig. 2: Soil-Water Conservation Work Continuous Contour Trenching (C.C.T.) carried out
using Contour Marker on Thousands of hectares in India
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013 (Signature of Group Leader)
STAFF
TUBE
FILLED
WITH
WATER
VALVE
(a)
(b)
(c)
50
Fig. 3: Schematics of the Improved Contour Marker with Micro-Slider Scale
Entry ID - SHODH--221 Submission Date: 05/02/2013 (Signature of Group Leader)