Map Creation Application

Overview

The Map Creation Application is a C# WinForms project designed to let users create custom maps with labeled places and streets. Users can design maps either with the built-in map drawer or by importing images created in programs like Photoshop (following the user guide). Once a map is created, users can leverage powerful pathfinding algorithms to find the shortest or fastest routes between walkable points.

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Features

• Custom Map Drawer:
  Draw and label streets and places directly within the application.

• Import Maps:
  Optionally, design your map in Photoshop and import it into the application.

• Pathfinding Algorithms:

  • Find the shortest or fastest path between two points using the efficient A* algorithm.
  • Map graph structure supports robust pathfinding.

• Map Editing Tools:

  • Draw lines, rectangles, and snap to grid for precise map creation.
  • Undo and redo capabilities for flexible editing.

• MVC Architecture:
  Clean separation of concerns using the Model-View-Controller design pattern.

• Singleton Pattern:
  Ensures a single instance of key classes.

• SOLID Principles:
  Applied to improve maintainability and extensibility.

• Simulated Database:
  A database class is used to mimic persistent storage.

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Architecture

• Language & Framework:
  C# with Windows Forms (WinForms) for the GUI.

• Design Patterns:

  • MVC: For separation of UI, business logic, and data.
  • Singleton: To ensure single instances where necessary.

• Algorithms Used:

  • Flood Fill (BFS): For filling areas in the map drawer.
  • A Algorithm:* For efficient pathfinding.
  • Geometry Utilities: For drawing and snapping shapes.

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Getting Started

Prerequisites

• Windows OS
• .NET Framework
• Visual Studio (recommended)

Installation

1. Clone the repository:

   git clone https://github.com/AnsElwkel/Map-Tool-Application

2. Open the solution file (.sln) in Visual Studio.
3. Build and Run the solution.

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Usage

1. Create a Map:

   • Use the integrated map drawer to design your map.
   • Label streets and places as needed.
   • Or import a map image (see user guide for details).

2. Edit Map:

   • Use draw tools (line, rectangle, snap to grid).
   • Use Undo/Redo to modify your map easily.

3. Pathfinding:

   • Load your map.
   • Select two walkable points.
   • Find the shortest or fastest path.

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Algorithms

• Flood Fill (BFS):
  Used for filling regions in the map drawer.
• A Pathfinding:*
  Calculates the most efficient route between two points.
• Geometry & Math:
  Used for drawing operations and snapping elements to grid.

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Design Patterns

• MVC:
  Ensures a structured and maintainable codebase.
• Singleton:
  Guarantees only one instance for core management classes.
• SOLID Principles:
  We try to follow some SOLID principles for better extensibility.

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Simulated Database

A dedicated Database class mimics persistent storage for maps and user data.

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Acknowledgements

• Algorithms reference: Wikipedia - A* search algorithm
• C# and WinForms documentation by Microsoft

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Enjoy creating and navigating your own maps!

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