451-206 Least Squares & Network Analysis

451-208 Computational Methods in Geomatics

Upon completion of this subject, students should have a basic understanding of the theory of least squares estimation and should be able to confidently apply this knoweldge to the solution of simple adjustment and estimation problems in the spatial sciences. Furthermore, this subject will provide an introduction to the design, adjustment and analysis of survey networks by application of least squares techniques.

Content of subject includes:

• review of error theory

• propagation of variances

• testing for measurement outliers

• review of matrix operations

• understanding variance matrices

• observation equations

• linearisation of non-linear functions

• the least squares algorithm

• testing least squares adjustments

• interpreting results

• network adjustment in theory and practice

One 3-hour written examination at the end of semester (50%). Ten weekly written assignments, each worth 4%. One 1-hour class test in week 8 (10%). Students must achieve a grade of at least 50% in the examination in order to pass this subject.