How to Measure Structural Orientations With a Compass
Before the invention of the GPS, directions were obtained by using a compass. A compass enables you to find a bearing for the direction to a location. To do this for the orientation of a structural object, the aid of a map or blueprint is required. You can measure its orientation by using a compass to find the direction from a specific starting point.
Instructions
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1
Open the map blueprint and place it on a table or desk. Set the compass down on the document.
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2
View the needle on the compass, then reposition the document so that the top is oriented to "North."
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3
Determine your starting location on the document and place the compass directly over this spot.
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4
Hold the compass to ensure that the needle remains pointing north. Point the direction indicator on the compass in the direction that the structural object is facing.
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5
Make a note of the graduation markings on the edge of the compass. These are the bearing headings to use to indicate the object's position.
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