How to Extract a Map for Inkscape Vector

Inkscape is an incredibly powerful and versatile software that allows users to edit vectorized PDF files, storing imagery data as SVG files. As an open-source version of Adobe Illustrator, it provides many of the same features while being more accessible and affordable.

When dealing with vectorized PDFs, Inkscape is the ideal solution. For instance, we can extract information from these files using Python and XML libraries, making it a valuable tool for data scraping purposes.

One particular use case for Inkscape involves extracting data from maps produced by the software. These maps are often in PDF format and are vectorized, which allows us to extract the location of specific points or features on the map.

For example, I recently came across a set of maps showing places of work on a Montreal city map from the 2006 census. While these maps were not readily available online, they provided valuable information about where people worked and commuted.

In this case, each dot on the map represents 500 workers, making it possible to extract data about the number of workers in specific areas. This information can be used to gauge potential ridership for public transportation systems.

The process of extracting this data may seem a bit hacky, as it involves rectifying the image using geo-references and then transforming the location of the dots back into lat/lng points. However, with some careful manipulation, we can achieve an accuracy of around 100m.

In conclusion, Inkscape is an incredibly useful tool for extracting data from vectorized PDFs, including maps. By leveraging its features and functionality, we can gain valuable insights about specific areas or populations, making it an essential tool in the field of data analysis.

How to extract a map for inkscape vector