Geographic knowledge discovery from Web Map segmentation through generalized Voronoi diagrams

Abstract

Web maps have become an important decision making tool for our daily lives. We propose a flexible Web Map segmentation method in order to better use them for decision makings. We extend the distance transform algorithm to include complex primitives (point, line and area), Minkowski metrics, different weights and obstacles. The algorithms and proof are explained thoroughly and illustrated. Efficiency and error for the novel algorithms are also detailed. Finally, the usefulness of the algorithms is demonstrated through a series of real-life case studies.