<p> The article discusses the issue of increasing the level of automation of alignment <br /> measurements when observing settlements and deformations of engineering structures, including <br /> hydraulic structures of various structures, which are different in their work on hydrostatic load. <br /> The study is based on a comparative analysis of modern means for production of engineering and <br /> geodetic measurements using visual optical devices and more modern laser, LED, infrared and other <br /> radiation sources in conjunction with photoelectric and optoelectronic recording devices, including <br /> diffraction, dispersion, interference methods, devices using mechanical scanning nodes. The theory of <br /> liquid crystals, main characteristics, anisotropy properties, physical properties, design, advantages <br /> in terms of energy consumption, weight, and overall dimensions are briefly presented. The method of <br /> remote control and information capturing is also considered. As a result of the research, a technical <br /> solution was proposed for a geodetic device for alignment measurements with a liquid crystal display <br /> with remote control, which is used as an attachment for installing a cell phone, which differs from the <br /> known ones in low energy consumption, small dimensions and weight, and a high level of ease of use. <br /> The device can be used when performing high-precision alignment measurements in construction, <br /> determining horizontal deformations of large engineering structures - dams,bridges, retaining <br /> walls, aligning guideways, installing technological equipment in the design position at base points, <br /> installing industrial conveyors and performing other engineering and geodetic works.</p>