Automated thinning of road networks and road labels for multiscale design of The National Map of the United States

Abstract

This paper reports on progress in generalization and selective feature removal for a subset of fundamental base map layers that enables competent mapping through scales ranging from 1:24,000 to 1:1,000,000. Thinning and partitioning methods are applied to road features and labels for The National Map of the United States. Roads are thinned adaptively using the ArcGIS Thin Road Network geoprocessing tool, which removes features by feature hierarchy and network connectivity, yet preserves characteristic urban/rural local density patterns that can be lost through simple category removals. The paper describes thinning for label hierarchies within road categories, improved preference in placement for more important road labels, and selective removal of labels through scale. Use of the Radical Law to guide matches between thinning parameters and suitable scales of representation also is shown. Inspection of graphic results of these treatments can help to establish parameters for automated base map design for US topographic mapping.