Part 3 Specialized aspects of GIS and spatial analysis

GIS and spatial analysis is suited mainly for static pictures of the landscape, but many of the processes that need exploring are dynamic in nature. Dynamic processes can be complex when put in a spatial context; our ability to study such processes will probably come with advances in understanding complex systems in general. Cellular automata and agent-based models are two prime candidates for exploring complex spatial systems, but are difficult to implement. Innovative tools that help build complex simulations will create larger user communities, who will probably find novel solutions for understanding complexity. A significant source for such innovations is likely to be from the collective efforts of hobbyists and part-time programmers, who have been dubbed “garage-band scientists” in the popular press.     

Incorporating Cellular Automata simulators as analytical engines in GIS

Contemporvy GIS suffer from a variety of problems. These include poor ability to handle dynamic spatial models, poor performance for many operations, and poor handling of the temporal dimension. Cellular Automata (CA) are dynamic mathematical systems based on discrete time and space. While CA have many similarities to GIS, and indeed excel in many areas in which GIS are deficient, they cannot themselves be considered as GIS since they lack the necessary sophisticated Capabilities in data input, data storage and retrieval, and data output. However, the advantages of CA in data analysis and modelling are significant. In order to exploit fully the advantages of each system - GIS and CA - we have developed a methodology and prototype system for coupling GIS and CA, in which the CA serves as an alternative analytical engine for the GIS. In the prototype system, spatial, temporal (i.e. time series), and spatio-temporal filters as well as spatial diffusion operators are developed. In addition, the integrated system provides a flexible framework for the programming and running of dynamic spatial models. We conclude that CA represent a viable alternate analytical engine for GIS and provide increased ability for dynamic spatial modelling within GIS.     

Building spatial models within GIS through Geo-Algebra

This paper describes Geo-Algebra, a mathematical framework for supporting geo-computational modelling in conjunction with GIS-based spacial data manipulation capabilities. Geo-Algebra overcomes the discrepancy between spacial modelling and GIS in the modes of representation as well as in their underlying concepts of space by using a common representational framework for (1) mathematical models expressing spatial relationships and (2) data models of georeferenced information. Geographic models of spatial structure and static as well as dynamic spatial interaction are formulated consistently within Gco-Algebra through a limited set of generic operations on map layers which are used simultaneously for GIS dam manipulation and analysis. A significant advantage of Geo-Algebra over other approaches to integration, such as high-level computational languages, is the development of theoretical concepts of the most general kind which allows the derivation of general properties of these in a deductive manner. In particular, Geo-Algebra formalizes and extends the mathematical notion of Map into the novel concepts of relational and metarelational Maps. These extensions lead to the novel concepts of space bridging the absolute and relative, as well as static and dynamic views of space. Such theoretical concepts are also implemented in a dynamic simulation tool called Geocellular .     

Context-dependent spatial analysis: A role for GIS?

The relationship between spatial analysis and GIS has been a debating point for over a decade. Some see GIS as leading the way to a new era in which the desire and the ability to analyse spatial data is widespread, not just in geography but throughout all disciplines in which spatial data are encountered. Others see GIS as simply providing a medium for the recycling of out-dated spatial analytical techniques and models. This paper describes a role for GIS through the development of new forms of ‘local’ or ‘context-dependent’ spatial analytical methods in which the focus is on exceptions to the general trend represented by the more traditional ‘global’ methods.     

Use of a Three-Domain Repesentation to Enhance GIS Support for Complex Spatiotemporal Queries

As the development of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) proceeds to advanced scientific and societal applications, there is an emerging need to enhance GIS support for complex spatiotemporal queries. Dynamic GIS representations (as opposed to static, map-based representations) that can integrate proper data elements in the production of geographic information are required. This paper demonstrates the use of a three-domain representation that facilitates compilation of higher-level information (such as frequency and rate) from preliminary data records (such as time and location) stored in a database. The three-domain representation is compared with snapshot, space-time composite, and spatiotemporal object models using a sample data set for forest transitions. While the three-domain representation is a normalization of these data models, it offers a conceptual alternative that enables GIS to represent spatiotemporal behaviors of geographic entities, in addition to entities as well as histories at locations as emphasized in most GIS data models. The comparison shows that the three-domain representation has combined the strengths of the space-time composite and spatiotemporal object models. Moreover, it enables aggregations of analytical use along with dynamic mappings between geographic concepts and locations, a distinct capability that takes GIS query processing beyond the level of information support offered by static map-based data models.     

集成GIS的元胞自动机在城市扩展模拟中的应用

元胞自动机CA(Cellular Automata)是一种"自下而上"的动态模拟模型,具有模拟城市复杂系统时空演化过程的能力。CA和GIS的集成使二者在时空建模方面相互补充,能使CA模拟结果可视化显示。这里以郑州市为例,设计了城市CA模型,借助VB 6.0和MapX 5.0建立了一个与GIS无缝集成的2维CA模拟系统,并结合郑州市2005~2007年遥感影像图和土地利用图,对郑东新区进行了模拟,取得较好的效果。     

A visual programming language for spatial modelling in GIS

An integration between a visual programming environment and GIS has been developed to create and run spatial models. The visual programming environment provides graphical objects to create flowchart-like models of spatial phenomena using GIS data. The integrated system is object-oriented and designed to lessen the technical burdens of GIS programming. The system capabilities are demonstrated using a hydrological model example, and the model execution speed is compared with an equivalent model implementation in a traditional raster-based modelling system.     

An integrated environment for developing knowledge-based spatial decision support systems

Knowledge-based spatial decision support systems (KBSDSS) incorporate heuristic reasoning, and analytical and spatial modelling capabilities to support decision making in resource and environmental management. They are able to provide the assistance for both the structuring and formulation of the spatial problem, and the design and execution of a solution process by automatically integrating different types of models and data. This paper presents a KBSDSS development environment, which connects a GIS tool (ARC/INFO) with an expert system tool (CLIPS) and a hypertext diagramming tool (HARDY). ARC/INFO provides capabilities for spatial data handling. CLIPS is used to develop knowledge bases and heuristic reasoning. HARDY is used to represent spatial problems in terms of diagrams that can then be translated into a CLIPS knowledge base for evaluation. The development environment allows users to structure their problems and develop models for particular requirements and domains.     

Modeling and Communicating the Conceptual Intent of Geo‐Analytical Tasks for Human‐GIS Interaction

One of the fundamental issues of geographical information science is to design GIS interfaces and functionalities in a way that is easy to understand, teach, and use. Unfortunately, current geographical information systems (including ArcGIS) remains very difficult to use as spatial analysis tools, because they organize and expose functionalities according to GIS data structures and processing algorithms. As a result, GIS interfaces are conceptually confusing, cognitively complex, and semantically disconnected from the way human reason about spatial analytical activities. In this article, we propose an approach that structures GIS analytical functions based on the notion of “analytical intent”. We describe an experiment that replaces ArcGIS desktop interface with a conversational interface, to enable mixed‐initiative user‐system interactions at the level of analytical intentions. We initially focus on the subset of GIS functions that are relevant to “finding what's inside” as described by Mitchell, but the general principles apply to other types of spatial analysis. This work demonstrates the feasibility of delegating some spatial thinking tasks to computational agents, and also raises future research questions that are key to building a better theory of spatial thinking with GIS.     

Dynamic Modelling and Visualization on the Internet

There is a growing requirement for GIS to incorporate dynamic analytic models. At the same time, there is a need to distribute results of dynamic GIS using the Internet. Therefore, this paper sets out to explore the implementation of dynamic environmental models using Internet-based geocomputation techniques. An overview discusses shortcomings of current Internet GIS techniques for dynamic modelling based on the idea that bidirectional and sustained communication is required between the client and the server sides. Thus an applet-servlet approach is explored to demonstrate the modelling process of a chosen hydrological model, TOPMODEL, which requires frequent and efficient client-server interactions. This approach overcomes the inherent shortcomings of the current Common Gateway Interface (CGI) and more primitive Java applet techniques. We present an effective and generic way to implement dynamic modelling and visualization processes in an Internet environment. This allows users to benefit from Internet-based geocomputation techniques to gain insights into computation and representation of dynamic spatial phenomena.     

A space-time analysis of knowledge production

Regional growth models often emphasize the importance of research and development activities leading to technological progress. The role of knowledge production and spatiotemporal spillover effects is investigated using a space-time panel data set covering 49 US states over the period 1994–2005. The aim is to test for the existence of regional knowledge spillovers in the context of a space-time dynamic suggested by the knowledge production function. A space-time specification is set forth that can be applied to panel data models that include random effects. We compare alternative models that have been proposed in the panel data literature to provide a better understanding of how new ideas diffuse across space and time. The results indicate that the space-time panel data set is consistent with the presence of strong spatiotemporal regional spillovers of knowledge. The empirical findings are interpreted in light of the existing theoretical and empirical literature on endogenous growth.     

Representing Complex Geographic Phenomena in GIS

Conventionally, spatial data models have been designed according to object- or field-based conceptualizations of reality. Conceptualization of complex geographic phenomena that have both object- and field-like properties, such as wildfire and precipitation, has not yet been incorporated into GIS data models. To this end, a new conceptual framework is proposed in this research for organizing data about such complex geographic phenomena in a GIS as a hierarchy of events, processes, and states. In this framework, discrete objects are used to show how events and processes progress in space and time, and fields are used to model how states of geographic themes vary in a space-time frame. Precipitation is used to demonstrate the construction and application of the proposed framework with digital precipitation data from April 15 to May 22, 1998, for the state of Oklahoma, U.S.A. With the proposed framework, two sets of algorithms have been developed. One set automatically assembles precipitation events and processes from the data and stores the precipitation data in the hierarchy of events, processes, and states, so that attributes about events, processes, and states are readily available for information query. The other set of algorithms computes information about the spatio-temporal behavior and interaction of events and processes. The proposed approach greatly enhances support for complex spatio-temporal queries on the behavior and relationships of events and processes.     

From fields to objects: A review of geographic boundary analysis

Geographic boundary analysis is a relatively new approach unfamiliar to many spatial analysts. It is best viewed as a technique for defining objects – geographic boundaries – on spatial fields, and for evaluating the statistical significance of characteristics of those boundary objects. This is accomplished using null spatial models representative of the spatial processes expected in the absence of boundary-generating phenomena. Close ties to the object-field dialectic eminently suit boundary analysis to GIS data. The majority of existing spatial methods are field-based in that they describe, estimate, or predict how attributes (variables defining the field) vary through geographic space. Such methods are appropriate for field representations but not object representations. As the object-field paradigm gains currency in geographic information science, appropriate techniques for the statistical analysis of objects are required. The methods reviewed in this paper are a promising foundation. Geographic boundary analysis is clearly a valuable addition to the spatial statistical toolbox.? This paper presents the philosophy of, and motivations for geographic boundary analysis. It defines commonly used statistics for quantifying boundaries and their characteristics, as well as simulation procedures for evaluating their significance. We review applications of these techniques, with the objective of making this promising approach accessible to the GIS-spatial analysis community. We also describe the implementation of these methods within geographic boundary analysis software: GEM. Received: 22 March 1999 / Accepted: 7 September 1999     

基于三维时空数据库的地信时空过程可视化研究

随着GIS数据不断更新,大量的GIS历史数据也不断累积起来。本文即是着眼于如何有效利用累积下来的多个时期的数据,模拟地信时空过程,让人们能直观了解空间信息的发展变化过程。论文先介绍了由地理信息时空数据建立的三维时空数据库,然后阐述了在此数据库支持下的地信时空过程可视化的实现技术。本文的研究是一次时态GIS与3D-GIS结合应用的尝试,实现了4D概念下更为逼真和动感的地理信息服务方式。     

基于遥感与GIS的城市用地动态变化分析——以上海市南汇区为例

近几十年来,土地利用/覆盖变化研究成为全球变化研究的焦点.本文利用2000年和2003年两个不同时期的遥感影像数据,借助GIS强大的空间分析能力,首先对上海市南汇区的城市用地利用变化的时空扩展过程、特征、规律做了深入的探讨,然后结合研究区社会经济数据对土地利用动态变化的驱动力进行了分析.研究结果表明:(1)随着经济的快速发展,南汇区城市土地利用正发生着数量及空间上的变化;(2)城市用地扩展的大部分来源于耕地,在城市化进程中耕地资源被大量地占用了;(3)南汇城市用地加速扩展,但扩展速度在空间上并不均衡;(4)城市用地的扩展在空间上呈现出轴线性和带状分布特点;(5)经济的发展始终是南汇区用地扩展的主导影响因子,相关的政府政策和规划贯穿于南汇城市用地扩展的全过程.     

Simulation Modelling Applied to Runoff Modelling Using MapScript

Dynamic spatial analysis addresses computational aspects of space–time processing. This paper describes the development of a spatial analysis tool and modelling framework that together offer a solution for simulating landscape processes. A better approach to integrating landscape spatial analysis with Geographical Information Systems is advocated in this paper. Enhancements include special spatial operators and map algebra language constructs to handle dispersal and advective flows over landscape surfaces. These functional components to landscape modelling are developed in a modular way and are linked together in a modelling framework that performs dynamic simulation. The concepts and modelling framework are demonstrated using a hydrological modelling example. The approach provides a modelling environment for scientists and land resource managers to write and to visualize spatial process models with ease.     

A New GIScience Application for Visualized Natural Resources Management and Decision Support

This article presents two decision support plug‐ins in free GIS software: ArcGIS Explorer Desktop. The ubiquitous WebGIS Analysis Toolkit for Extensive Resources (uWATER) focuses on providing GIS analysis functions: spatial and attribute queries in the public services tool for users with limited access to commercial GIS software. The interface of uWATER is general enough to support decision‐making in numerous management issues in natural resources, economics and agriculture. The uWATER‐Pumping Assessment (uWATER‐PA) toolkit, on the other hand, is an extended package targeting the specific environmental issue of groundwater pumping impacts. The uWATER‐PA package is an excellent alternative to evaluating complex groundwater pumping assessment issues before investing significant time, labor, and funds in monitoring and detailed scientific study. It incorporates simulation of the physics of groundwater flow and user interaction into GIS software. A graphical user interface makes both data entry and interpretation of results intuitive to non‐technical individuals. Results are presented as colored drawdown maps and can be saved in GIS format for future dissemination. The impact of drawdown on existing wells can be characterized and mapped, through the use of uWATER's spatial query capabilities and the drawdown maps generated by uWATER‐PA.     

A GIS for hydrological modelling in the semi-arid, HAPEX-Sahel experiment area of Niger, Africa

During the HAPEX-Sahel experiment (1991–94), water redistribution processes were studied at the meso-scale (10 000 km²) near Niamey, Niger. A project now under way at ORSTOM aims at modelling the regional water balance through a spatial approach combining GIS data organization and distributed hydrological modelling. The main objective is to extend the surface water balance, by now available only on a few, small (around 1 km²) unconnected endoreic catchments, to a more significant part of the HAPEX-Sahel square degree, a 1500 km² region called SSZ that includes most of the environmental and hydrology measurement sites. GIS architecture and model design consistently consider data and processes at the local, catchment scale, and at the regional scale. The GIS includes spatial and temporal hydrological data (rainfall, surface runoff, ground water), thematic maps (topography, soil, geomorphology, vegetation) and multi-temporal remote sensing data (SPOT, aerial pictures). The GIS supports the simulation of the composite effect at the regional scale of highly variable and discontinuous component hydrologic processes operating at the catchment scale, in order to simulate inter-annual aquifer recharge and response to climatic scenarios at the regional scale.     

大学生活动时空模型的建立

针对大学生的动态时空分布表示和可视化查询,建立了一个在GIS环境下面向行为的时空数据模型。该模型能够分别基于学生、时间和位置进行查询。以华中师范大学为例,将基于模型的原型系统在ArcGIS软件平台上予以实现和检验。结果显示,该模型的构建是极具利用价值的。