Evaluating the Geometry of Objects in Cartographic Generalization with Hu's Invariants

ABSTRACT

This paper presents a novel approach to assessing the geometry of objects using Hu's invariants in the context of cartographic generalization. The primary focus is to improve the generalization process and produce more readable and informative maps. The study demonstrates the applicability and effectiveness of the modified invariant moment M1* in evaluating regular shape similarity. Experiments, based on 24 shapes, exhibit greater stability in the results and reveal the high suitability of this moment in the investigation and classification of buildings, among other generalization processes. The efficiency of the proposed method is compared to previous generalization techniques, showing a significant improvement in the generalization process. In conclusion, this research contributes to the development of cartographic generalization methods by introducing the use of Hu's invariants for evaluating object geometry. This approach can improve the automation of map generalization processes and more effective communication of geographic information.

KEYWORDS:

• Computer vision
• Invariant moments
• Cartography
• Shape similarity
• Generalization

Acknowledgements

This paper was produced under scientific activity and cooperation with the AGH University of Science and Technology (Krakow, Poland), the Wroclaw University of Science and Technology (Wroclaw, Poland), the University of Agriculture in Krakow (Krakow, Poland). The authors would like to express their gratitude to the editor and the anonymous reviewers for their thorough work on the manuscript and for providing constructive and insightful comments on this paper.

Disclosure Statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Author Contributions

Conceptualization, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; methodology, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; validation, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; formal analysis, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; investigation, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; resources, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; data curation, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; writing—original draft preparation, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; writing—review and editing, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K., C.S., K.M.; visualization, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; supervision, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.; project administration, K.K., KM; funding acquisition, J.B.-B., K.K., A.K.. Authors contribution: K.K. 30%, J.B.-B. 30%, A.K.30% C.S 5%, KM 5%. All authors have read and agreed to the published version of the manuscript.

Additional information

Funding

This research was funded by the Wroclaw University of Science and Technology [grant number MNiSW/GUGiK Nr 6T122005C/06552], titled 'Metodyka i procedury integracji, wizualizacji, generalizacji i standaryzacji baz danych referencyjnych dostępnych w zasobie geodezyjnym i kartograficznym oraz ich wykorzystania do budowy baz danych tematycznych'; by the AGH University of Krakow [grant number 16.16.150.545]; by the University of Agriculture in Krakow with funds from the Ministry of Education and Science for the discipline of civil engineering, geodesy and transport; and by the Conselho Nacional de Desenvolvimento Científico e Tecnológico [grant number 313358/2021-4].

Notes on contributors

Joanna Bac-Bronowicz

Joanna Bac-Bronowicz has been working in universities for 40 years (Wroclaw University of Environmental and Life Sciences, University of Wroclaw). Since 2013, she has been a professor at the Department of Geodesy and Geoinformatics, Faculty of Geoengineering, Mining and Geology Wroclaw University of Science and Technology. She devoted her entire professional career to the area of engineering and technical sciences in the fields of geoinformatics and cartography. For years, she has been conducting research on data mining methods in modelling environmental and HGIS data using statistical methods and artificial neural networks. Joanna has specialized in cartographic generalization, standardization of groups of objects in industry MRDBs and their cartographic preparation. Joanna was one of the founders of the Association of Polish Cartographers, and since 1999 she has been its president.

Krystian Kozioł

Krystian Kozioł is a researcher at the Department of Integrated Geodesy and Cartography, Faculty of Mining Surveying and Environmental Engineering, AGH University of Science and Technology in Kraków. Specializing in Algorithms, Databases, and Information Science, Krystian's expertise spans a comprehensive array of disciplines including Cartography, Geodesy, Surveying, and Geoinformatics (GIS). Currently, Krystian is deeply involved in a pioneering project titled 'Neural Network in Geoinformatics', aiming to integrate advanced neural network technologies with geospatial data processing and analysis. The skill set is broad and includes Spatial Analysis, Spatial Database Management and the development of Algorithms for Cartography and Geoinformatics. Proficient in Image Processing, Digital Imaging, and Web Mapping, also skilled in Digital Terrain Analysis and GeoData Modelling, he demonstrates a keen ability to leverage technology to enhance the utility and accuracy of geospatial information.

Andrzej Kwinta

Andrzej Kwinta is an associate professor at the University of Agriculture in Krakow, Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Land Surveying. He holds a PhD and habilitation degree in technical sciences, in the fields of Geodesy and Cartography. He is a member of the Polish Academy of Sciences for the third term. His main scientific interests are related to several lines of research that are relevant to surveying, engineering surveying, mining damages management, geomechanics, computer science and cartography.

Celso Augusto Guimarães Santos

Celso Augusto Guimarães Santos is a full professor at the Universidade Federal da Paraíba (UFPB), Brazil, and has distinguished himself in the field of Civil and Environmental Engineering. His academic journey includes a notable period as an associate professor in the Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering at the University of Ehime, Japan. Presently, Santos represents Brazil in the International Association of Hydrological Sciences (IAHS), further solidifying his international standing. His research, which spans modelling, artificial intelligence and wavelet analysis, is both broad and innovative. These endeavours have led to significant contributions to his field, marked by his active participation in international collaborations and projects. Through his work, Santos consistently demonstrates a deep commitment to enhancing the understanding and application of engineering solutions to address water-related challenges, underscoring his role as a key figure in his domain.

Kamil Maciuk

Kamil Maciuk (PhD) is an assistant professor at the AGH University of Krakow. He holds a PhD in Geodesy, and his main area of interest encompasses GNSS positioning and navigation, including precise point positioning, clock stability analysis and the use of systems such as GPS, GLONASS and Galileo.