Dirsch and Haunert – METROCHRONES 2023

Description

This refereed paper, published in *The Cartographic Journal* in late 2023, introduces “Metrochrones,” a novel algorithm for generating schematic isochrones for octilinear transit maps. Authored by Axel Forsch and Jan-Henrik Haunert from the University of Bonn, this 19-page article provides a robust and well-illustrated methodology. It details how to create visually optimized accessibility regions that guarantee correct separation of reachable and unreachable stations, minimizing bends, avoiding acute crossing angles, and maintaining distance from existing features. The paper is rich in visual examples, featuring 15 figures that clearly demonstrate the approach and its outputs for networks in Cologne and Paris. A key highlight is the provision of open-source Java code, enhancing its trustworthiness and utility for researchers and practitioners aiming to visualize complex transit accessibility or other isoline data like travel fares.