The cartography of time-changing phenomena: the animated map

Abstract

This research examines the role of the animated film in the portrayal of time series data, specifically change in the British population. It concentrates on cartographic animation and first reviews techniques developed thus far for computer-animated generation of maps for films. In order to generate an animated film, time; series data is first needed. Existing sources of time series data are shown to contain serious deficiencies for this purpose, and thus a new set of population data is generated for Britain throughout the period 1901 - 1971, and based on the Census. Ways of presenting change in this data set are then examined. Conventional methods of measuring change in the population, whilst satisfactory in static cartography, have definite limitations when used in animated cartography. Two methods, based on population density and on expected change in the population, are developed and the results mapped. As with conventional methods of measuring change, standard cartographic techniques may not be used in animated filming with any degree of success, and the resultant film shows significant departures from accepted cartographic theory. The method of film production is then examined, from the compilation of the maps themselves, through the use of the microfilm plotter in generation of the film, to the final sound tracking. The resultant film is enclosed with the thesis; the final chapter examines the success of this film. Whilst significant imperfections are shown in this example, it is concluded that the animated film has a role to play in the portrayal of time series data.