The problem of topographic map junctions: causes, consequences, and modern solutions

The purpose of this article is to analyze the issues of topographic map junctions and explore modern solutions to eliminate inaccuracies when working with cartographic materials. The article aims to highlight the causes of junction errors, their consequences for users, and the opportunities offered by modern geoinformation technologies and software. The main objectives include a detailed analysis of the technical aspects of map junctions, the study of geodetic and cartographic methods for solving these problems, and examples of using drones, satellite data, and GIS to improve the accuracy of cartographic materials. Practical analysis focuses on the possibilities of efficiently applying a geoportal for generating map sheets and subsequent printing to avoid junction issues with standard map sheets, which often cause operational difficulties. Methodology. A range of research methods was employed in the preparation and development of this article. Specifically, it included the analysis of the causes of junction problems in topographic maps, modern solutions for addressing them, and prospects for improvement. Geodetic errors at map junctions were analyzed, including the study of major sources of inaccuracies, such as discrepancies in coordinate systems, geodetic errors, and material deformation. The impact of modern cartographic technologies was explored, along with the potential of geoinformation systems (GIS) like ArcGIS for merging individual map sheets into a unified digital product. The use of software to address discrepancies between maps and create interactive terrain models was also reviewed. Furthermore, the use of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s geoportal for automating the process of merging cartographic data and providing user access to these data was examined. Its functionality, including terrain profiling, visibility field calculations, distance measurement, and directional angle determination, was studied. A comparative analysis of modern methods for solving map junction problems and their effectiveness was conducted. The prospects for improving cartographic materials through the integration of modern technologies were outlined. The results. The research highlighted key aspects of solving the problem of topographic map junctions and confirmed the effectiveness of modern technologies in this area. The feasibility of using GIS, such as ArcGIS, was proven: The analysis showed that GIS ensures the integration of data from various cartographic sources, enabling the creation of seamless digital terrain models with high accuracy, greatly simplifying field data analysis. The research confirmed that updating cartographic materials using satellite data and drone imagery significantly reduces inaccuracies at map junctions. These images allow for the detection of terrain discrepancies and other changes. The appropriateness of modern algorithms and GIS tools for correcting junction discrepancies was established, demonstrating their effectiveness in creating seamless maps, particularly within military geoinformation systems. The study of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s geoportal revealed that the interactive tools available on this platform provide users with up-to-date geospatial information. Its functionality supports data uploading, analysis, and map generation with junction considerations. Thus, the results of the study confirm the importance of using modern geoinformation technologies, satellite data, and drones to address the issue of topographic map junctions. This has significant implications for both military and civilian projects, ensuring accuracy, convenience, and efficiency in the use of cartographic materials. The scientific novelty of this research lies in the systematic study and substantiation of methods for resolving topographic map junction issues using modern geoinformation technologies, satellite imagery, and drone data for the first time. The key causes of discrepancies at map junctions, such as the impact of different coordinate systems, deformation of cartographic materials, and terrain changes, were thoroughly analyzed. A comprehensive approach to using digital terrain models generated by drones for map corrections was proposed for the first time. Special attention was paid to integrating these models with geoinformation systems such as ArcGIS to create seamless cartographic materials that meet military users’ needs. The research also identified the advantages of using geoportals to automate the process of analyzing map junctions. The capabilities of the Armed Forces of Ukraine’s geoportal for interactive data merging, terrain profiling, and invisibility field analysis were studied. The effectiveness of this approach in the military context was demonstrated, making it a significant contribution to geoinformation support for military operations. The results emphasize the prospects for further improvement of map processing technologies to enhance their accuracy and usability. Practical Significance. The practical significance of the study lies in developing effective approaches to solving topographic map junction issues, which can be directly applied in both military and civilian contexts. The use of modern geoinformation systems, satellite imagery, and drone data enables the creation of seamless cartographic materials with high accuracy. The study’s findings will allow operational headquarters and command posts to: quickly resolve junction discrepancies, significantly improving the accuracy of military operation planning. Utilize digital terrain models to analyze visibility zones, determine optimal routes, and calculate fields of fire. Integrate drone and satellite data into geoportals for real-time updates of cartographic materials. Thus, the practical significance of this research lies in the creation of tools and methods that enhance the accuracy and convenience of using topographic maps, optimize action planning, and ensure effective decision-making in military and civilian applications.