Issued: 3/3/1998
Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus for automatically labeling maps in accordance with predefined label criteria provides automated labeling of any number of different types of maps with point, line and region features. For automatically labeling point features on a map, a horizontal placement step is first performed to determine whether the point feature name can be placed horizontally. If not, a curved placement step is executed in which the point feature name is placed along a curved arc to attempt to fit the name on the map without the name overlapping other names or other features. The curved placement step is performed by first calculating the length of the point feature name and then choosing a radius of curvature and angle of curvature to create a placement arc of a given length for placement of the point feature name. Once the placement arc is created and the point feature name place thereon, the curved point feature name is tested to see whether it satisfies predetermined criteria.
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