A conceptual spatial model supporting topologically-consistent multiple representations

ABSTRACT

Dealing with multiple representations of the same spatial data is widely recognized as a relevant problem in conceptual modeling of spatial information. Unfortunately, existing solutions provide no support to the management of consistency constraints on multiple representations. In this paper, we propose an extension to the ChronoGeoGraph (CGG) conceptual model, which features both a relation of spatial aggregation, that allows one to switch from a spatial entity to its components, and vice versa, and a relation of carto-graphic generalization, that allows one to maintain multiple spatial representations that may differ in resolution, shape, or point of view. A special attention is deserved to the problem of guaranteeing the topological consistency of different representations of the same spatial entity. A short description of the relational encoding of the constructs for multiple representations added to CGG concludes the paper.

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INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.1 MODELS AND PRINCIPLES

Additional Classification:
  H. Information Systems
  H.2 DATABASE MANAGEMENT
      H.2.1 Logical Design
          Subjects: Data models

General Terms:
Design

Keywords:
conceptual model, granularity, spatial data, topological consistency