The Potential of the Lenticular Foil Technique for Thematic Cartography

Abstract

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Lenticular visualisation methods are innovative advancements of modern presentation media in cartography. Owing to the mainly three-dimensional perception of people, this technique, in print as well as on screen, offers the possibility to introduce autostereoscopic, i.e. three-dimensional views in cartography. On the basis of true 3D, it has already found its way into the visualisation of relief relations. Moreover, it also opens perspectives for the more widespread products of thematic cartography (thematic maps). Multi-layered representation becomes possible on the basis of three-dimensional or sequentially differentiated depictions of spatial phenomena. Thus, several parameters or dimensions of cartographic content can be displayed at the same time. This essay discusses some potential applications of the lenticular foil technique for thematic cartography on a theoretical basis.     

Tactile Mapping: Yesterday,Today and Tomorrow

Abstract

The paper presents an overview the development of techniques in and uses of tactile mapping² through the last fifty or so years. It provides both a background for the other papers in this issue,³ and an account of the current state of the art. It notes that cartography has almost as much to learn from tactile cartography as vice versa, and suggests possible routes and areas for future developments in tactile mapping and the education and care of blind and visually impaired people.     

Cartography and the others – aspects of a complicated relationship

ABSTRACT

Cartographic visualizations have been known for thousands of years and have brought forth a wealth of different map projections and cartographic products. Yet, cartography as an independent science has been established only about 100 years ago and sometimes its position among the spatial disciplines is challenged by the scientific community. In this respect it is a young science based on a very long tradition of map making, globe production, and the development of map projections. Maps and map related visualizations play an important and indispensable role in many other spatial disciplines such as geography and geodesy. Cartography has many overlaps with these traditional disciplines as well as with the more recent ones of photogrammetry and remote sensing. This paper reviews fundamental aspects of the conception of space and time throughout human history, the historic development of cartography from a technique of map making to a spatial science, highlighting major milestones in the history of the discipline. As a young science and confronted with major technological developments in the late 20^th century cartography underwent several crises as to what exactly is cartography and how it relates to other spatial sciences, in particular to geographic information systems. Major pitfalls and misconceptions are discussed and the three major scientific pillars of cartography are identified. The relationships of cartography with neighboring disciplines are discussed and the position of cartography vis a vis the others is delineated. Finally, desirable future developments of scientific cartography are discussed.     

The British Cartographic Society Annual Report

Abstract

There is hidden within early texts information, which if analysed, can be used to increase our understanding of early cartography. This paper considers the possible relevance of the Venerable Bede's concept of Britannia to cartography, his comprehension of the original data, and, why that may have affected his view of Britannia. The information also provides us with an opportunity to construct an alternative for the lost portion of the Tabula Peutingeriana, at least as it pertains to Britain, and to consider the residual areas.     

Some reflections on cartographic design

Abstract

The author reflects on some of the main influences on map design which occurred during his own working lifetime in cartography. These include the post-World War II developments in graphic arts technology and the impetus these gave to what is now regarded to 'traditional' cartography; the design challenge of the photomap; theory and research in the nineteen seventies and early nineteen eighties and finally the digital transition.

The use of powerful digital systems to experiment with cartographic design, and the improvements in design standards which expert systems may offer to noncartographers are regarded as important prospects in the immediate future.     

Maps as Knowledge Aggregators: from Renaissance Italy Fra Mauro to Web Search Engines

Abstract

For many years geological students have been graduating from universities with little knowledge of how to use the cartographic language of line, letter, symbol and tone by which the distribution and spatial arrangement of earth science data can be best expressed. The author discusses the development of the teaching of geological cartography in the Department of Earth Sciences at the University of Leeds. Details of this innovation are set against the background of data obtained from a recent questionnaire on the practice of cartography as a discipline in departments of geology in British universities.     

Cartography in Advertising

Abstract

This short paper attempts to pursue an analytical account of the cartography in present day advertising. Particular reference is made to the printed advertisements in newspapers, brochures and periodicals available in Britain.     

Cartography in the Context of Sciences: Theoretical and Technological Considerations

Abstract

In an introductory theoretical way, the authors attempt to place cartography into the general context of sciences. Based on the traditional definition describing cartography as a science, technique and art, its defined scientific role in the development of geographic thinking is analysed. This approach corresponds to the procedural method in epistemology. Cartography is, according to a general model in science, classified considering the fact whether its sources of origin of the concepts, its principles and postulates are genuine or derivatives from other disciplines. After comparative statements between Cartography and Geography, an analysis of all environmental sciences with reference to the use of technologies is carried out.     

Maps > Representation

Abstract

Colour is considered a key means of expression for use in cartographic works. This is because colours and the relations among them influence not only the aesthetic impression a map creates but also its overall utility. In addition to Newton’s spectral colour theory, today theories with origins in artistic technique are gaining ground in cartography. This article introduces J. Itten’s colour theory (first published in 1961 in The Art of Colour [Kunst der Farbe]) with special attention given to his concept of seven colour contrasts. The article also discusses the suitability and unsuitability of their application in practical cartography, and it contributes original examples employing thematic maps, a discipline with broad possibilities for the application of these inventive methods by today’s mapmakers.     

John Stanley Keates: Curriculum Vitae and List of Publications

Abstract

The first BCS President of the twenty-first century reflects on the cartography of the twentieth century and identifies those 'maps' that he believes have had significant influence on the development of the discipline during that century.     

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 British Cartographic Society Awards 2006

Abstract

While graphic variables in 2D maps have been extensively investigated, 4D cartography is still a widely unexplored field. In this paper, we investigate the usefulness of 4D maps (three spatial dimensions plus time) for cartographically illustrating spatio-temporal environmental phenomena. The presented approach focuses mostly on explorative research rather than on enhancement and extension of existing methods and principles. The user study described in the paper shows that 4D cartography is not a well-explored research area and that many experienced map users try to apply their knowledge from 2D maps to 4D dynamic visualisations. Thus, in order to foster the discussion within the community, we formulated several basic research questions for the area of 4D cartography, which range from methods for representing time in 4D visualisations and understanding the temporal context to finding generic methods to achieve optimized temporal generalisation and a consistent definition of graphical variables for 3D and 4D.     

KOMPLOT "Do-it-yourself" Computer Cartography

Abstract

After describing the changes which program packages, such as SYMAP, can make to the production of thematic maps the author briefly considers the aesthetics of computer graphics. The simplicity and versatility of KOMPLOT are then discussed with the aim of bringing computer aided cartography to a wider field of users.     

Some Technical and Economic Limitations of Cartographic Colour Representation on Land Use Maps

Abstract

Some problems of land use map production are analysed in the general context of colour cartography by a Senior Lecturer in Geography, King's College, University of London, who is also Director of the Second Land Utilisation Survey of Britain.     

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.     

How to Assess Visual Communication of Uncertainty? A Systematic Review of Geospatial Uncertainty Visualisation User Studies

Abstract

For decades, uncertainty visualisation has attracted attention in disciplines such as cartography and geographic visualisation, scientific visualisation and information visualisation. Most of this research deals with the development of new approaches to depict uncertainty visually; only a small part is concerned with empirical evaluation of such techniques. This systematic review aims to summarize past user studies and describe their characteristics and findings, focusing on the field of geographic visualisation and cartography and thus on displays containing geospatial uncertainty. From a discussion of the main findings, we derive lessons learned and recommendations for future evaluation in the field of uncertainty visualisation. We highlight the importance of user tasks for successful solutions and recommend moving towards task-centered typologies to support systematic evaluation in the field of uncertainty visualisation.     

Topographic Science at the University of Glasgow

Abstract

The problems of devising university courses in topographic science subjects, culminating in the institution of a full B.Sc. degree, are examined in relation to parallel developments elsewhere. Details of course content and structure are given, in the expectation that specific examples will provide discussion points for those concerned with the development of education in cartography.     

The Conversion of Aerial Photography to Symbolised Maps

Abstract

The use of the aerial photograph as a basis for a topographic map is currently one of the most interesting developments in cartography. A member of the staff of the Army Map Service, who is primarily concerned with investigations into map design, presents some possible lines of development in this field.     

Elements of viral cartography

ABSTRACT

Making and sharing maps is easier than ever, and social media platforms make it possible for maps to rapidly attain widespread visibility and engagement. Such maps can be considered examples of viral cartography – maps that reach rapid popularity via social media dissemination. In this research we propose a framework for evaluating the design and social dissemination characteristics of viral maps. We apply this framework in two case studies using maps that reached wide audiences on Twitter. We then analyze collections of maps derived from and inspired by viral maps using image analysis and machine learning to characterize their design elements. Based on our initial work to conceptualize and analyze virality in cartography, we propose a set of new research challenges to better understand viral mapmaking and leverage its social affordances.     

Designing the electronic chart display

Abstract

The Electronic Chart and the Electronic Chart Display Information System are integrating technologies requiring accurate position fixing using GPS, assessment of current sea surface situation using radar and high quality display in map form. The latter aspect is addressed here with an emphasis on operational requirements for such shipboard cartography including colour and symbolisation.