2287	 A New Approach to Automatic Scanning of Contour Maps	 The problem of automatic digitizing of contour maps is discussed. The structure of a general contour map is analyzed and its topological properties are utilized in developing a new scanning algorithm. The problem of detection and recognition of contour lines is solved by a two color labeling method. It is shown that for maps containing normal contour lines only it suffices to distinguish between so-called even and odd lines. The tangency problem involved in practical scanning is discussed and a solution based on minimizing computer memory space and simplifying control program is suggested. automatic scanning contour maps digitizing contour lines topology detection and recognition
