Recent developments employing knowledge based expert systems, geographic information systems, object-oriented programming, and mathematical optimization routines have demonstrated the feasibility of automating the cartographic production cycle. Subjective areas in cartography where automated production systems are most beneficial include: placement of feature labels and graphic symbols, chart and map generalization at change of scale, and feature decluttering operations.An automated chart production system requires new methods of structuring and manipulating spatial features. Map and chart features include natural, man-made, and abstract objects, which are best represented in data structures that contain both spatialand object-oriented topological relationships. In Phase I we have presented the concept, design, and implementation of the "Topological Data Objects Library" which provides new methods of storing, abstracting, and manipulating nautical chart features in an application and data independent manner.In Phase II, DBA Systems, Inc. proposes to further research the Topological Data Objects Library and develop a prototype system. The prototype system will be a complete automated nautical chart production program that combines existing spatial databases and cartographic knowledge base rules with the new topological objects and mathematical optimization routines.Commercial Applications:The topological data objects library prototype developed in Phase II will have commercial potential for map design and automated production programs, terrain analysis, feature extraction, geographic database management, and geographic decision support. By utilizing the generic components, many additional applications could benefit from the spatial and object-oriented relationships provided by the topological data objects library.
