Intelligent geological mapping: A novel pattern for smart geological compilation

In order to overcome disadvantages of traditional digital geological mapping such as heavy workload, repeated and tedious operation, long cycle and poor data quality, this paper proposes an intelligent geological comprehensive mapping concept with multidisciplinary characteristics to meet the application requirements of rapid mapping geological maps and build a technology system for intelligent geological mapping centered on "geological data+ expert knowledge+ artificial intelligence".iMapower is a powerful intelligent mapping system for geological survey generalization that is developed with four driven features, i.e., demand-driven, data-driven, model-driven and knowledge-driven.Two different kinds of software with the same functions are developed based on MapGIS, ArcGIS by China Geological Survey. iMapower employs geologist knowledge to control the whole mapping process. It integrates many key techniques and methods such as map generalization, GIS, database, visualization, artificial intelligence, cartographic standards and quality control.Then iMapower can simulate mapping specialist to complete the comprehensive processing of a large number of geological features automatically or semi-automatically using geological evolution relationship, various rules and intelligent algorithms.Functions of this mapping applications are supported by many generalization algorithms consisting of merging, simplification, fusion, smoothing, complex annotation and so on.This software gets through some important technical processes such as quick downsizing mapping from large-medium scale to small scale, fundamental maps mapping, collaborative mapping across administrative boundaries, customized map development, and so on.This software was used in some practical work involved in new national 1.5 million and 2.5 million geological maps revision, regional geological map mapping, and development of influencing factors maps for coastal city construction.The production results show that iMapower can save at least 65% to 75% of mapping time, reduce workload of mapping staff sharply and improve data quality significantly.Domestic geologists, foreign experts and production organizations have recognized and paid close attention to this valuable application.Two kinds of iMapower developed based on MapGIS and ArcGIS have been carried out by practical compilation applications. iMapower will promote a new generation of interactive intelligent mapping work pattern for geological survey, mineral resources, ecological protection, international mapping and many more tasks. And it is beneficial to pursuing standardization and normalization mapping work.