kadunrasteri

Kadunrasteri is a term used in theoretical computer graphics and geographic information science to describe a family of rasterization techniques that convert vector representations of networks—such as roads or transit lines—into raster grids while preserving network topology and functional attributes. The name is a neologism formed to reflect the fusion of a fictional root for route or path with the word raster. In practice, kadunrasteri techniques produce multi-layer raster images where each cell encodes properties such as presence of a network element, orientation, speed, and capacity. The approach emphasizes adaptive resolution, with finer cells along network edges and at intersections, and coarser cells elsewhere.

Kadunrasteri systems typically operate in two stages: vector-to-raster conversion and attribute propagation. In the conversion stage, the network graph is overlaid on a grid; a connectivity-preserving rule ensures that junctions and overlaps remain traceable in the raster. In the attribute stage, traffic-related or geometric attributes are interpolated or discretized into cell values, enabling raster-based analyses such as grid-based routing, simulations, or visualizations.

Applications include urban planning, traffic modeling, emergency response simulations, and integration with raster-based GIS workflows. The method aims to facilitate compatibility with raster-only tools while maintaining essential network characteristics.

Limitations include potential loss of precise geometric accuracy, data size growth for dense networks, and sensitivity to grid alignment. Kadunrasteri remains primarily a niche concept used in research discussions and experimental tools, rather than a standard in mainstream GIS practice. It is often contrasted with traditional vector-network representations and with modern graph-based GIS data models.