Duality and Dimensionality Reduction Discrete Line Generation Algorithm for a Triangular Grid

• Main Authors: Lingyu Du, Qiuhe Ma, Jin Ben, Rui Wang, Jiahao Li
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2018-09-01
• Series: ISPRS International Journal of Geo-Information
• Subjects: vector; grid transformation; triangle; hexagon; duality; dimensionality reduction
• Online Access: http://www.mdpi.com/2220-9964/7/10/391

Vectors are a key type of geospatial data, and their discretization, which involves solving the problem of generating a discrete line, is particularly important. In this study, we propose a method for constructing a discrete line mathematical model for a triangular grid based on a “weak duality” hexagonal grid, to overcome the drawbacks of existing discrete line generation algorithms for a triangular grid. First, a weak duality relationship between triangular and hexagonal grids is explored. Second, an equivalent triangular grid model is established based on the hexagonal grid, using this weak duality relationship. Third, the two-dimensional discrete line model is solved by transforming it into a one-dimensional optimal wandering path model. Finally, we design and implement the dimensionality reduction generation algorithm for a discrete line in a triangular grid. The results of our comparative experiment indicate that the proposed algorithm has a computation speed that is approximately 10 times that of similar existing algorithms; in addition, it has better fitting effectiveness. Our proposed algorithm has broad applications, and it can be used for real-time grid transformation of vector data, discrete global grid system (DGGS), and other similar applications.