How does one determine how similar two maps are? This book aims at the theory of spatial similarity relations and its application in automated map generalization, including the definitions, classification and features of spatial similarity relations. Included also are calculation models of spatial similarity relations between arbitrary individual objects and between arbitrary object groups, and the application of the theory in the automation of the algorithms and procedures in map generalization.

Dr. Haowen Yan obtained his Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctor’s degrees in Cartography and Geographic Information Engineering from Wuhan University, China. He has worked at the Hong Kong Polytechnic University as a research assistant, at the University of Zurich as a senior researcher, and at the University of Waterloo as a research fellow. He is currently a visiting professor at the University of Waterloo and professor of Geomatics in the Lanzhou Jiaotong University, China.

Jonathan Li is a professor at the Department of Geography and Environmental Management at the University of Waterloo. Dr. Li's research interests are mainly in the areas of remote sensing and geographic information science, including high-resolution satellite mapping, airborne and terrestrial mobile LIDAR mapping, earth observation of global change, remote sensing of inland and coastal waters, remote sensing of renewable energy potential, mapping of climate-induced hazards, Internet GIS and Web Mapping, Terrain Analysis in Hydrogeography, geospatial sensor network, and geospatial information technologies for emergency response and disaster management.