An Automated Cartographic Generalization Process: A Pseudo-Physical Model

Automating the map generalization process has traditionally been a major focus of research in cartography and GIS environment, even though a usable holistic generalization method is still lacking. The model described in this paper examines the generalization process from a new standpoint that views the map as a stage in area warfare. A pseudo physical model was developed for automated generalization employing the electric field theory toward understanding and describing the action and behavior of active objects in the map generalization process. The paper focuses on the object properties analysis in order to determine the “power” of each object in any given map, and the interactions between these powers. These interactions produce "forces" that act on the objects and control their behavior according to cartographic constraints, in order to resolve spatial conflicts in an ideal manner