This paper concerns the issues of measurement techniques, analysis and assessment of the machined surface geometric structure. The aim of this work was to show the application of surface analysis in diagnosing the causes of discrepancies occurring in the manufacturing process, which may result from ill-matched (poorly fitting) process parameters. An appropriate system of control and interpretation of results may allow early reaction to unfavorable trends (for example blunting of the tool) and prevention of undesirable defects. The subject of research was a waste basket used in the construction of retaining sewer systems. In this paper, the quality of the waste basket as well as its manufacturing process were analyzed and assessed. The research was carried out with the use of three measurement stands, i.e. optical microscopy (OM), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and white light interferometer (WLI). The surface analysis proved to be important from the viewpoint of outlining the production process as well as improving the product quality. The software used for topographical analysis appeared to be significant for the success of the analysis, providing notable economic effects, namely the lack of defects.

While constructing and documenting civil structures, large machines, and industrial facilities, one can encounter a situation where relevant control points are hardly accessible. The instruments with appropriate surveying equipment available on the market provide relatively standard measurements. The limitations mentioned above may transfer into an increased working time (or financial effort) that must be considered while performing the prescribed measuring works. One of the possible solutions (assuming financial capabilities) is utilizing a video-total station (a scan station) with additional supporting equipment. Another possibility would be employing a terrestrial laser scanner (TLS) or close-range photogrammetry. However, such technologies demonstrate significant limitations, especially in the industrial environment.
Regarding that, the authors propose an original measuring set collaborating with a free electronic total station. The main working principle is a known surveying 3D-polar method that can determine XYZ coordinates. The solution presented in the paper facilitates the performance of inventory works, consisting of dimensioning civil structures and rooms with difficult access. Such situations can often be encountered in industrial plants or while documenting architectural or other engineering structures. The device can also be used for dimensioning ventilation ducts, elevator shafts, and other similar facilities. Depending on the configuration of the measuring equipment and the target shapes, the final accuracy may reach a sub-millimeter or millimeter level. Hence, the solution can successfully be applied in civil engineering, industrial surveying, and industrial metrology.