Spatial Data Representation Model Oriented to Geographical Problem Solving

Geographical problem solving environments are becoming the most popular tools which used to solve sophisticated problems. In order to overcome the obstacles caused by mutli-sourced heterogeneous spatial data, a data representation model (DRM) is designed. A data representation model is a description used to provide identification of all data elements within a system, including their attributes and the logical relationships among all data elements. In object-oriented terminology, this is viewed as a class hierarchy, and described through a graphics-based design tool. The DRM provides not only a clear description of the data, but also defines the relationships between the data that are critical to ensuring correct interpretation by users. DRM also provides a common data model to define a data representation structure for traditional data and spatial data. By the experiments, it has shown that it can satisfy the requirements of geographical modelling, analysis for geographical problem solving under today’s open, heterogeneous environment. * Corresponding author: Email: [email protected], [email protected], Tel: +86-13851706937