Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus for automatically labeling maps in accordance with predefined label criteria provides automated labeling of any number of different types of maps with point, line and region features. For automatically labeling point features on a map, a horizontal placement step is first performed to determine whether the point feature name can be placed horizontally. If not, a curved placement step is executed in which the point feature name is placed along a curved arc to attempt to fit the name on the map without the name overlapping other names or other features. The curved placement step is performed by first calculating the length of the point feature name and then choosing a radius of curvature and angle of curvature to create a placement arc of a given length for placement of the point feature name. Once the placement arc is created and the point feature name place thereon, the curved point feature name is tested to see whether it satisfies predetermined criteria.

Abstract: A computer-implemented method and apparatus for automatically labeling maps in accordance with predefined label criteria provides automated labeling of any number of different types of maps with point, line and region features. For automatically labeling area regions, a two step process is used where, in the first step, one or more approximate label positions for each region are selected based in part on the skeleton graph of the region. Once the approximate label positions are selected, a second final label placement step is implemented in which test locations in the neighborhood surrounding each of the approximate label positions are searched to see if the label can be placed without overlapping other labels or other features within the area. If so, the labels are placed at the selected test location without regard to the contour of the region's skeleton. A method and apparatus for curved and angled point feature labeling are also provided.