Open map List

Collapse

Collapse is a cartographic generalization technique where large or complex geographic features are simplified into smaller, more abstract representations to improve readability at smaller map scales.

Basic

Introduction

Key Characteristics of Collapse in Generalization:

  • Reduces visual clutter by representing detailed features as simplified symbols.
  • Used when scaling down a map to avoid overcrowding and maintain clarity.
  • Common in small-scale maps where space is limited.

Examples

Examples of Collapse in Cartography:

  1. Urban Areas:

    • A detailed city street network collapses into a single point or shaded polygon at smaller scales.

  2. Buildings & Landmarks:

    • A detailed building footprint collapses into a single icon or point marker on city maps.

  3. Rivers & Water Bodies:

    • A wide river system collapses into a single-line feature on small-scale maps.

  4. Forests & National Parks:

    • A dense collection of trees collapses into a generalized shaded area with a label.

Outgoing relations