Computerised screening and stippling using the Royal Australian Survey Corps Automap 2 system

Abstract

The introduction of large format raster scanner/plotters has created a new dimension in cartographic completion techniques. For the first time, this type of hardware has provided the ability to expose a screen or area pattern within irregular shaped boundaries; technology that has escaped vector plotters. Completely automated systems that compile, correct and produce screened and patterned negatives, suitable for printing, reduce the costs of labour and materials normally associated with manual techniques. An automated screening and stippling system has been developed at Army Survey Regiment at Bendigo, Victoria. The screening and stippling system makes extensive use of the Optronics X4040 raster scanner/plotter. Products created by automated screening and stippling have better accuracy and fewer surface markings, to spoil the appearance of patterned areas, than products created by manual techniques. A punch registration system guarantees that overlays produced will accurately register to each other. Cost...