A Combined Automated Generalization Model Based on the Relative Forces between Spatial Objects

The research described in this paper examines the behavior of map objects and the interactions between them in order to gain an understanding of the cartographic generalization process. It is suggested that electric field theory be employed, assuming that the map generalization process will be based on how the ìpowersî of the map features affect each other. The developed model defines several parameters using spatial analysis that determines a "power" for each object in the map, and sets rules for controlling the mutual interaction forces between these powers in order to attain a compromise between constraints and resolve the competition between objects in the limited map area at a reduced scale. Interactions between map objects are expressed by actions of forces constructed within cartographic constraints and affected by several parameters dependent on properties of the surrounding objects. We thus return to electric field theory, where each object has its own "electric charge" with attraction or repulsion forces controlling its movements, and where ìweakî objects change their shape or place