Primitive-based Construction Theory for Diagrams in Thematic Maps

Abstract

To enhance the variety of map symbols and to develop new symbol types, a fundamental understanding of the map symbol construction process is mandatory. Current construction theories focus on diagrams without taking georeferencing or interactivity into account. This paper presents a new methodology for the creation of two-dimensional geometric symbols and diagrams for the application in thematic maps. In this context, 49 diagrams found in cartographic literature were analysed and classified regarding their construction properties. As a result of this research, diagrams can be defined using cartographic primitives which are arranged according to six arrangement principles. Since the variation of the primitive's size according to the data values follows a certain geometric direction, each diagram can be explicitly defined based on the three construction properties 'primitive', 'arrangement principle' and 'data direction'.     

Producing Tactile Maps Using New Inkjet Technology: an Introduction

Abstract

Three common methods for producing tactile maps are mixed media, microcapsule paper and thermoform. This paper describes a new method for producing tactile diagrams using piezoelectric inkjet. To produce diagrams a photo-curing acrylic polymer ink is repeatedly printed onto a thermoplastic substrate and exposed to ultraviolet light which bonds the ink to the substrate and cures it solid. The speed and precision of the process means maps with fine, easily discriminated tactile features will be readily available to users. The new process will facilitate further psychological, psychophysical and cartographic research.     

Cartography: Making Sense of Our Worlds

Abstract

One goal of cartographic research is to improve the usefulness of maps. To do so, we must consider the process of spatial knowledge acquisition, the role of maps in that process, and the content of cognitive representations derived. Research from psychology, geography, and other disciplines related to these issues is reviewed. This review is used to suggest potential new directions for research with particular attention to spatial problem solving and geographic instruction. A classroom experiment related to these issues is then described. The experiment highlights some of the implications that a concern for the process of spatial knowledge acquisition will have on questions and methods of cartographic research as well as on the use of maps in geographic instruction. It also provides evidence of independent but interrelated verbal and spatial components of regional images that can be altered by directed map work.     

Determining a Vertical Scale for Graphical Representations of Three-Dimensional Surfaces

Abstract

The selection of a vertical scale in the production of block diagrams or three-dimensional views is a decision which can have a great effect on the map reader's perception of the information presented. Advice available in the cartographic literature is extremely subjective and refers mainly to physical data. In the absence of suitable guidelines for statistical mapping, an experimental technique is presented which utilises the power of automated cartography in determining a scale which can be applied to all types of three-dimensional surfaces.     

A Synopsis of Nigeria’s Indigenous Cartographic Heritage

Abstract

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Over the ages, Nigerians have had various indigenous ways of spatial representation, otherwise known as ‘alternative cartographies’. Paradoxically, however, the indigenous cartographic heritage of the Nigerian people has altogether remained unsung despite its immense contributions to societal development. This paper, therefore, is a modest attempt aimed at bringing the forgotten issue of Nigeria’s cartographic legacy to the limelight. The paper takes a bird’s-eye look at Nigeria’s homegrown cartographic heritage. The various local means of representing and communicating geospatial information are discussed. The paper equally highlights the invaluable benefits of indigenous cartographic heritage as well as how to preserve such heritage.     

A Structure Recognition Technique in Contextual Generalisation of Buildings and Built-up Areas

Abstract

A structure recognition technique is presented that can be employed for contextual building and built-up area generalisation in medium-scale topographic maps. Owing to various spatial configurations, a contextual mechanism is necessary to achieve acceptable results in cartographic generalisation. Spatial structures are usually implicit in data, and advanced analysis and processing methods are required to detect them. This technique is based on auxiliary geometric data structures and spatial analysis methods. A case study is performed with a topographic data set, using an interface developed in an object-oriented geographic information system (O-O GIS). The proposed approach was found to assist and improve automation.     

The Map of the Future May Not Be a Map!

Abstract

Although studies concerned with the communication of information and of power-relations have been central to the development of cartographic theory, as hermeneutics they do not seem to have fully explored the relationship between maps and aesthetics. In this short paper, I will briefly discuss the reasons why aesthetics belongs in the development of cartographic theory and suggest possible avenues for further research.     

Searching for the ‘Right’ Legend: The Impact of Legend Position on Legend Decoding in a Cartographic Memory Task

ABSTRACT

Map legends are key elements of thematic maps and cartographic communication. The question of how to style map legends is a topic which has often been addressed by cartographic academics and practitioners. Nevertheless, the question of where to position a map legend has only hardly been discussed. Principles of cognitive sciences allow the assumption that a legend positioned to the right of a map field can be read and decoded faster than a legend on the left side. This study investigates the impact of legend positioning on legend decoding. It involves an experiment based on a recognition memory paradigm and the registration of eye-movements. The results show that, in less time, a legend positioned to the right of the map field (compared to a left legend) can be decoded faster. The same accuracy of a cognitive representation of geographic space can be achieved in spatial memory.     

Semi-automatic Process for Hybrid DTM Generalization based on Structural Elements Multi-analysis

Abstract

The generalization of digital terrain models (DTMs) is a tool of great potential for simultaneous cartographic and photogrammetry generation processes at different scales, the main object of which is to feed different geographic information systems (GIS). These GIS enable multi-scale analysis and visualization through different data bases. This research proposes a semi-automatic DTM generalization process conditioned by a series of predefined parameters resulting in the generation of hybrid DTMs at different scales starting from a single cloud of points obtained through large-scale massive data acquisition processes. The generalization results obtained, applied on different areas of different relief, offer specific application ranks for each parameter with great precision, in contrast with DTMs obtained directly in each scale.     

Contemporary American cartographic research: a review and prospective

ABSTRACT

We review recent developments in cartographic research in North America, in the context of informing the 29th International Cartographic Conference, and 18th General Assembly in 2019. The titles of papers published since 2015 in four leading cartographic journals yielded a corpus of 245 documents containing 1109 unique terms. These terms were analyzed using Latent Dirichlet Allocation and by visual analytics to produce 14 topic groups that mapped onto five classes. These classes were named as information visualization, cartographic data, spatial analysis and applications, methods and models, and GIScience. The classes were then used as themes to discuss the recent cartographic literature more broadly, first, to review recent trends in the research and to identify research gaps, and second, to examine prospects for new research over the next 20 years. A conclusion draws some broad findings from the review, suggesting that cartographic research in the future will be aimed less at dealing with data, and more at generating insight and knowledge to better inform society about global challenges.     

Re-Freshing Cartography

Abstract

This paper presents the cartographic elements of a system for classifying and visualizing high-dimensional geographic datasets. The system has been developed as part of the Land Ocean Interactions in the Coastal Zone (LOICZ) project. The goal of the system is to develop regional and global typologies of coastal zones using large multi-variable datasets. Our implementation bring together statistical clustering algorithms with visualization capabilities to allow easy analysis and comprehension of the result. The two main tasks of the visualization are to allow for discrimination of multiple classes and to show relationships between those classes. These are accomplished in two different visual presentations. In both cases, the system selects colors appropriate to the purpose. In the latter case — showing relationships — the system uses a novel iterative refinement algorithm to select the colors. The result show that the system is successful at both generation the classes and visualizing the relationships between them.     

Arno Peters changed the World! Development Education and the Peters' Projection

Abstract

This paper describes, from a map librarian's perspective, an investigation into the feasibility of the provision of digital mapping for use by students in a British academic library. Establishing the funding has been a significant part of the project. This has included consideration of hardware as well as the pricing structures for the supply of digital cartographic data.     

How to Enhance Cartographic Visualisations of Natural Hazards Assessment Results

Abstract

Cartographic visualisations are important tools for the communication of hazard related data among stakeholders. Although these representations are essential for various hazard management tasks, an analysis of existing hazard visualisations showed that they often disregard cartographic principles. This leads to confusion on the part of users through poor representations and consequently to an impairment of the information flow. The objective of this research is to offer suggestions for enhanced hazard visualisations to facilitate hazard management tasks and decision making. Existing cartographic shortcomings are identified based on an extensive analysis of hazard visualisations and an expert survey. These shortcomings are discussed and improvements for important cartographic elements are presented.     

The National Archives and Public Records

Abstract

The article provides an overview of the huge cartographic holdings of The National Archives (TNA). It continues by outlining the procedures by which records are selected for permanent preservation by TNA.     

Post-war Progress in Cartography in the Federal Republic of Germany

Abstract

The author spent six years in Germany as Geographic Attache to the United States Embassy in Bonn. His contacts with the cartographic industry resulted in this appraisal of German cartography. He is now Associate Professor in the Department of Geography, University of Nebraska.     

The Present State of Perceptual Research in Cartography

Abstract

This paper discusses the current state of perceptual research concerning cartographic symbols. Initial discussion treats the theories and reasons behind the present popularity of perceptual studies in cartography. It is followed by a summary of the printed materials on this topic appearing in several prominent English language cartographic publications. A person who is newly entering the area of perceptual research in cartography may use this paper as a quick source for obtaining background in the area and thereby save valuable time from sifting through individual sources for information regarding what has already been done. Additional convenience is provided for the reader by the grouping of references according to the subject matter which they concern.     

Numerically Controlled Methods of Automatic Plotting and Draughting

Abstract

The equipment available for numerically controlled plotting and draughting is reviewed and certain devices described in some detail. Several systems suited to the digitising of cartographic material exist, while the available plotters may be classified broadly into three categories—those derived from surveying and photogrammetric practice, those associated with computer technology and a group designed substantially for cartographic applications. Finally the various input and output devices associated with cartographic digitising are discussed with special emphasis on their storage capacity, speed of operation and economy.     

Colour – Difficult to Both Choose and Use in Practice

Abstract

Colour is a very important visual variable and is often used for the communication of information in maps, graphics and diagrams. In cartography, the use of colour, in both a traditional and an electronic medium, has been widely discussed. With the growing use of a range of computer software (cartographic, remote sensing, Geographical Information Systems (GIS), and more recently the Internet or World Wide Web) as the main environment in which to design and create maps, and the availability of more sophisticated hardware, there is now an even greater opportunity and freedom of choice to make use of colour as a vital component in the communication of spatial information. The question is how to handle all these colours. This paper explores the importance of both the choice and use of colour in a paper and an electronic medium, and examines some of the ways in which more careful choice of colour can be encouraged in practice to ensure that the growing freedom of use considers the correct use of colour.