AUTOMATING GENERALIZATION - TOOLS AND MODELS

Abstract

Many national mapping agencies (NMAs) are pursuing the idea of building a master database and deriving multiple-scale products from it. To support this production goal, GIS-based generalization is a necessity. The solution for generalization involves data modeling, process automation, multiple representations, updating, and more. This paper focuses on the automation of generalization processes in ArcGIS (the GIS software created by ESRI, Inc.). To automate generalization requires translating the cartographer’s knowledge into computer logic and algorithms in order to derive desired results. Our starting point is the Generalization toolset in ArcToolbox, the powerful geoprocessing framework containing hundreds of data analysis and management tools and a ModelBuilder for process chaining. Existing and forthcoming tools along with on-going research cases will be used to illustrate the automation challenges, such as defining rules, recognizing certain patterns and contexts, and producing topologically correct output with feedback for evaluation and post-processing. Sample generalization models will also be presented.

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