2012, Vol.12, No.1

Journal of the Korean Cartographic Association 2023 KCI Impact Factor : 1.34

pISSN : 1598-6160
https://journal.kci.go.kr/jkca

The main objective of the paper is to seek to find the best map projection for a world map centered on the Pacific Ocean. To accomplish this objective, some classification schemes and selection guidelines for map projections are reviewed and then such criteria as popularity, equivalence or compromise, and minimum of overall distortion are established for the search. After evaluated on the basis of the criteria, four candidates are selected: Eckert IV, Robinson, Winkel Tripel, and Miller cylindrical projections. They are extensively investigated and compared in terms of their cartographic characteristics. A survey targeting cartographically informed people is undertaken to inquire into different preferences among the projections. It is concluded from all these that Robinson projection is the best one. The relative superiority of the projection is contended to be better seen when the central meridian is set on the 150° E rather than when it is on the prime meridian. With a through review on the derivation of transformation equations for the Robinson projection, a general principle of implementing the projection is established and a procedure of designing a variable scale bar suitable for it is presented.

The purpose of this research is to suggest the principles and alternative of hypsometric tints for representing relief in small scale maps such as world maps and world atlases. For this, the paper examines the definition, cartographical history, types and limitations of hypsometric tints and analyzes the hypsometric tints of two world maps and three world atlases using the concept of color difference. Analysis results show that it is difficult to visually distinguish adjacent colors in a color scheme of some cases and the continuity of the terrain is lost by using violet or white to represent the highest elevation. Based on these observations, four principles are suggested; 1) using spectrum color schemes in order to improve the judgment of absolute as well as relative height, 2) considering the tradition of a society, 3) simultaneously maintaining the distinction of adjacent colors and the contiguity of the terrain, and 4) constructing light color schemes in light of adding an application of shaded relief. Then, an alternative hypsometric tint for world maps abiding by the suggested principles is provided.

Efficiency and effectiveness are greatly desired in producing world maps since it usually requires much cost and time. Recent advances in geospatial technologies and database management systems have provided new opportunities for making world maps. In this context, the paper is concerned with establishing a practical procedure of producing paper world maps with digital map data. Main results are twofold. First, some criteria of evaluating the suitability of digital map datasets for the world map production are set and, evaluated based on them, the Natural Earth dataset is recognized as the best among the available digital map datasets. Second, some topics such as the setup of a georeference system, the determination of map layers, the implementation of a map design, and maintenance and management are addressed which are necessary for producing world maps with the selected dataset. It is learned that a well-defined procedure in conjunction with an adequate dataset of digital map can facilitate an efficient and effective map making and that, in doing that, it is crucial to have affluent GIS-ready data and a GIS-based procedure of manipulating them.