The Design and Implementation of a Truly Integrated GIS Using the Persistent Programming Language Napier88

[摘要] This thesis is concerned with the design and development of an integrated geographical information system (IGIS) based on the use of a persistent programming language called Napier88. It reports on the research carried out to implement a wholly new approach to deal with the problems of constructing a truly integrated GIS. The main aspects discussed within the context of this thesis are: an overview of the current status and trends in IGIS development; the characteristics and functions of the persistent programming language Napier88; the design considerations and the definition of the system architecture of an IGIS; the integration of vector map data and raster image data in a persistent store; the multiple data modelling of geographical data; the superimposition and cross indexing of vector maps and raster images; the spatial indexing and querying of geographical data; the management of geographical data in a persistent database environment; and the implementation of a prototype IGIS. This thesis concludes that the Napier88 language can provide a sound framework for the construction of a truly integrated GIS, although some current deficiencies in the language need to be overcome. Since persistent programming languages are still in the stage of research and development, more research is necessary to investigate other features that they could provide which may be beneficial to the development of a truly integrated GIS.

[发布机构] University:University of Glasgow

[关键词] Computer science, Geographic information science and geodesy