Showing papers in "Cartographic Journal in 1996"

Guidelines for Selecting Colors for Diverging Schemes on Maps

Abstract: Results from research on the consistent use of basic color names, on colors that look the same with impaired color vision, and on changes in color appearance caused by surrounding colors have application in cartography. These results are synthesized to recommend the following pairs of hues for use on thematic maps suited to diverging color schemes: red/blue, orange/blue, orange/purple, and yellow/purple. These recommendations are robust because they may be communicated verbally and require no particular color charts or color measurements for use. These color pairs will aid in producing maps of differences and of changes that can be read accurately by all map users.

Public Transport Maps in Western European Cities

Abstract: The author toured 25 cities in 11 countries of western Europe during 1995, in order to study their public transport maps and to meet the people responsible for them. He found distinct French, Scandinavian, and Dutch styles in addition to the classic style of public transport map. Rules are proposed to govern the choice of mapping method, based on the number of transport modes, number of transport services, amount of overlap, and the use of colour coding in the streets. Schematic maps, resembling the London Underground map, are preferable for underground railways, but are definitely not suitable for buses. Factors in the design which need particular attention include: amount of base map detail, map size and purpose, emphasising the name of the terminus, the problem of insets, panels at interchange points, and background colours. Types of maps, previously rarely used, which should now be economically feasible since the introduction of computer mapping, include: maps of subsets, stop-specific route m...

A Dynantic Decision Tree Structure Supporting Urban Road Network Automated Generalization

Abstract: Generalization is a complex task which requires a good understanding of the geometrical and semantic aspects of map features as well as the potential use of the map. Reasoning about spatial relatio...

The representation of quantitative and ordinal information

Abstract: Cartography has had a long tradition of symbolisation, but until Bertin introduced systematic guidelines for symbolisation in the 1960s, the rules followed by cartographers were largely based on convention and experience. In recent years, as computerised mapping systems have become widely available and easily accessed by a large community of users who are cartographically untrained, poorly designed maps have been noticed everywhere, in magazines, in newspapers, even in scientific literature. This is because the current software opens all the possibilities for symbol selection to the user. In order to diminish the potential for misuse, expert systems should be developed, systems that encapsulate the expertise which provides guidance and control during symbol design and so ensure a good product.

The State of Mapping in the Former Satellite Countries of Eastern Europe

Abstract: Since the breakup of the former Eastern Bloc and the emergence of newly independent states from the former Soviet Union, there has been a more liberal approach to the publication of maps. Types and scales of maps which had formerly been available only to the military or planners are now being sold freely to the general public and to foreigners. Freed from the straitjacket of military requirements and censorship, a number of the former Eastern Block countries are also producing a much wider range of map types. This paper explores both the types of maps formerly produced in the satellite countries of Eastern Europe and those being produced under the new, more liberal regimes.

Communication in Children's Picture Atlases

Abstract: A selection of children's picture atlases was analysed for pictorial content and illustrative style. Eighty six primary children were interviewed and an assessment made of their identification and interpretation of map-located pictures. Picture recognition and interpretation without reference to any explanatory legend or text were found to be highly variable. Some characteristics of picture misinterpretation are identified and a number of aspects of children's reasoning about picture location are explored. Some tentative guidelines are presented for cartographers and illustrators as well as for teachers and parents.

Exploring Approaches to Computer Cartography and Spatial Analysis in Cognitive Mapping Research: CMAP and MiniGASP Prototype Packages

Abstract: Much cognitive mapping data consists of spatial elements such as points, lines and polygons. This makes it possible to analyze such data with traditional spatial statistics and to visualise them using cartographic techniques. Using this approach can reveal 'hidden' spatial patterns and provide quantitative evidence which can be used in identifying, understanding and explaining cognitive mapping theories. This paper examines the role of computer cartography and spatial analysis in cognitive mapping research and the most appropriate approach to their implementation. The possible contribution of Geographical Information Systems (GISs) is investigated and the development and implementation of two stand-alone specialised packages, CMAP and MiniGASP are outlined.

A technique for the removal of outliers during a computerised map generalisation process

Abstract: This paper describes a procedure for the automatic generalisation of “outlier polygons” within a map. A project undertaken by the Institute of Terrestrial Ecology (ITE) for the European Commission (EC) has offered the opportunity to develop this procedure with the intention of adopting it for future generalisation of the ITE Land Cover map (LCMGB). This procedure is a component part of a wider development that uses both automated and semi-automated GIS techniques. This paper describes the raster-based procedure, its effects on patch patterns in a landscape and briefly, how the procedure is used within an overall map generalisation process. The wider development is described in Brown and Fuller (1995 in press).

Teaching touch on the towpath: a tactile map for a visit to the countryside

Abstract: This paper describes the design of a tactile map to enable a child with visual impairment to develop map reading skills, and to explore and appreciate a small area of countryside. A prototype map was developed and following user feedback the design was re-evaluated and a complete tactile mapping package to aid environmental education was produced.

Aspects of the Production of the Gender Atlas of India with ARC/INFO™

Abstract: Use of the ARC/INFO Geographic Information System (GIS) software, can contribute greatly to the rapid production of atlases with high accuracy and comprehensive information. The major thrust of GIS has been to integrate inherently geographical and non-geographical databases for decision-making processes. Databases to be included in the atlas can be captured and integrated in a GIS format using ARC/INFO. These databases can also be utilised for the production of paper as well as electronic thematic atlases using the map design facilities available with ARC/INFO. Before production of the final maps, a number of other questions need to be answered, such as for whom the atlas is being produced, what type of parameters are to be mapped, what should be the class interval and class limits, what type of shades and symbols should be used and what should be the map layout? This paper answers these questions on the basis of experience gained in the production of the Gender Atlas of India using ARC/INFO. The ...

Colouring the political map

Abstract: Maps differentiating countries by colour are commonly used in atlases and elsewhere. A condition of such maps is that each zone should have a different colour from each of its neighbours. It has been proved that a minimum of four colours is necessary for this, although applying these colours to a set of zones is likely to be a process of trial and error until a satisfactory solution is found. The problem is analysed and the procedure for finding a solution is described. In order to automate the task the solution is implemented using PROLOG, a declarative language well suited to this type of problem.

Jerusalem in Braun & Hogenberg Civitates

Abstract: Among the many cities depicted in the Civitates Orbis Terrarum by George Braun and Franz Hogenberg (Cologne, Vol. I-VI, 1572–1617), the city of Jerusalem was given a special status having been depicted in three different maps, each of them located in a different volume. None of these maps was drawn originally by Braun and Hogenberg, but all three of them were copies of maps printed earlier by other mapmakers. This paper describes these three different maps of Jerusalem, draws the distinction between realistic and imaginary information presented in them, and traces their sources through textual and graphic evidence.

The “Map of Metlatoyuca” – A Mexican Manuscript in the Collection of the British Museum

Abstract: This study investigates the Map of Metlatoyuca, a Mexican pictorial manuscript of early Colonial time, in the collection of the British Museum. The map, which is painted on cloth, demonstrates a road and river system, place signs and genealogical records. The historical and geographical content is studied and compared with available iconographic and written historical sources. Using these ancient sources and analysing the pictograms of the place signs, the region represented on the map is identified as being located in the far northern part of the state of Puebla adjacent to Vera Cruz and Hidalgo. This assessment is confirmed by redrawing the ancient map utilising modern standards of cartography.

To be as a Looking Glass to their Estates: the early 17th century surveys of William Senior

Abstract: William Senior, during the years 1600 to 1640, surveyed private estates totalling over 285000 acres located in a dozen counties of England. The result – written surveys (“terriers”) and over 150 maps (“platts”) – is a minor Domesday Book for the early 17th century.