Spatial process and data models: Toward integration of agent-based models and GIS

TitleSpatial process and data models: Toward integration of agent-based models and GIS
Publication TypeJournal Articles
Year of Publication2005
AuthorsBrown DG, Riolo R, Robinson DT, North M, Rand W
JournalJournal of Geographical Systems
Volume7
Issue1
Pagination25 - 47
Date Published2005///
Abstract

The use of object-orientation for both spatial data and spatial process models facilitates their integration, which can allow exploration and explanation of spatial-temporal phenomena. In order to better understand how tight coupling might proceed and to evaluate the possible functional and efficiency gains from such a tight coupling, we identify four key relationships affecting how geographic data (fields and objects) and agent-based process models can interact: identity, causal, temporal and topological. We discuss approaches to implementing tight integration, focusing on a middleware approach that links existing GIS and ABM development platforms, and illustrate the need and approaches with example agent-based models.

DOI10.1007/s10109-005-0148-5