Creation of digital contours that approach the characteristics of cartographic contours
Scientific Investigations Report
2012-5167
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Abstract
The capability to easily create digital contours using commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) software has existed for decades. Out-of-the-box raw contours are suitable for many scientific applications without pre- or post-processing; however, cartographic applications typically require additional improvements. For example, raw contours generally require smoothing before placement on a map. Cartographic contours must also conform to certain spatial/logical rules; for example, contours may not cross waterbodies. The objective was to create contours that match as closely as possible the cartographic contours produced by manual methods on the 1:24,000-scale, 7.5-minute Topographic Map series. This report outlines the basic approach, describes a variety of problems that were encountered, and discusses solutions. Many of the challenges described herein were the result of imperfect input raster elevation data and the requirement to have the contours integrated with hydrographic features from the National Hydrography Dataset (NHD).
Suggested Citation
Tyler, D., Greenlee, S.K., 2012, Creation of digital contours that approach the characteristics of cartographic contours: U.S. Geological Survey Scientific Investigations Report 2012-5167, iv, 31 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20125167.
ISSN: 2328-0328 (online)
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | Creation of digital contours that approach the characteristics of cartographic contours |
| Series title | Scientific Investigations Report |
| Series number | 2012-5167 |
| DOI | 10.3133/sir20125167 |
| Year Published | 2012 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Geological Survey |
| Publisher location | Reston, VA |
| Contributing office(s) | Earth Resources Observation and Science (EROS) Center |
| Description | iv, 31 p. |
| Online Only (Y/N) | Y |