Research on the Shape Classification Method of Rural Homesteads Based on Parcel Scale—Taking Yangdun Village as an Example

Abstract

The basic information survey on homesteads requires understanding the shape of homesteads, and the shape of the homesteads based on the spatial location can reflect information such as their outline and regularity, but the current shape classification of rural homesteads at the parcel scale lacks analytical methods. In this study, we endeavor to explore a classification model suitable for characterizing homestead shapes at the parcel scale by assessing the impact of various research methods. Additionally, we aim to uncover the evolutionary patterns in homestead shapes. The study focuses on Yangdun Village, located in Deqing County, Zhejiang Province, as the research area. The data utilized comprise Google Earth satellite imagery and a vector layer representing homesteads at the parcel scale. To classify the shapes of homesteads and compare classification accuracy, we employ a combination of methods, including the fast Fourier transform (FFT), Hu invariant moments (HIM), the Boyce and Clark shape index (BCSI), and the AlexNet model. Our findings reveal the following: (1) The random forest method, when coupled with FFT, demonstrates the highest effectiveness in identifying the shape categories of homesteads, achieving an average accuracy rate of 88.6%. (2) Combining multiple methods does not enhance recognition accuracy; for instance, the accuracy of the FFT + HIM combination was 88.4%. (3) The Boyce and Clark shape index (BCSI) proves unsuitable for classifying homestead shapes, yielding an average accuracy rate of only 58%. Furthermore, there is no precise numerical correlation between the homestead category and the shape index. (4) It is noteworthy that over half of the homesteads in Yangdun Village exhibit rectangular-like shapes. Following the “homesteads reform”, square-like homesteads have experienced significant vacating, resulting in a mixed arrangement of homesteads overall. The research findings can serve as a methodological reference for the investigation of rural homestead shapes. Proficiency in homestead shape classification holds significant importance in the realms of information investigation, regular management, and layout optimization of rural land.