Geographical Data Acquisition

This book presents the theory and methodology of geographical data acquisition, providing comprehensive coverage ranging from the definition of geo-referencing systems and transformation between these systems to the acquisition of geographical data using different methods. The material provides readers with a good understanding of the nature of spatial data, the accuracy of spatial data, and the theory behind various data acquisition methodologies.

Geographical Information Systems has moved from the domain of the computer specialist into the wider archaeological community, providing it with an exciting new research method. This clearly written but rigorous book provides a comprehensive guide to that use. Topics covered include: the theoretical context and the basics of GIS; data acquisition including database design; interpolation of elevation models; exploratory data analysis including spatial queries; statistical spatial analysis; map algebra; spatial operations including the calculation of slope and aspect, filtering and erosion modeling; methods for analysing regions; visibility analysis; network analysis including hydrological modeling; the production of high quality output for paper and electronic publication; and the use and production of metadata. Offering an extensive range of archaeological examples, it is an invaluable source of practical information for all archaeologists, whether engaged in cultural resource management or academic research. This is essential reading for both the novice and the advanced user.

Containing 31 papers collected in five chapters, this book deals with different fields of application and the problems of modelling and organising data in structures, as well as the processing techniques of GIS data for queries to the system and the so-called Dynamic GIS. The authors cover data acquisition with low cost DGPS for road surveys, vehicle navigation systems, and robust statistical techniques applied to pre-processing, analysis and testing. They report on the testing and calibration of different scanners for GIS data acquisition as well as some original approaches to the automatic DTM generation for cartographic and close range applications. Finally, applications to the environmental monitoring and the use of different kinds of geodetic data in multipurpose regional GIS are shown.

This clear and accessible text helps public health students and officials gain a solid understanding of geographic information systems technology. Using examples drawn from public health practice, the author shows how to best harness the opportunities of this exciting technological development.

Describes the State-of-the-Art in Spatial Data Mining, Focuses on Data Quality Substantial progress has been made toward developing effective techniques for spatial information processing in recent years. This science deals with models of reality in a GIS, however, and not with reality itself. Therefore, spatial information processes are often imprecise, allowing for much interpretation of abstract figures and data. Quality Aspects in Spatial Data Mining introduces practical and theoretical solutions for making sense of the often chaotic and overwhelming amount of concrete data available to researchers. In this cohesive collection of peer-reviewed chapters, field authorities present the latest field advancements and cover such essential areas as data acquisition, geoinformation theory, spatial statistics, and dissemination. Each chapter debuts with an editorial preview of each topic from a conceptual, applied, and methodological point of view, making it easier for researchers to judge which information is most beneficial to their work. Chapters Evolve From Error Propagation and Spatial Statistics to Address Relevant Applications The book advises the use of granular computing as a means of circumventing spatial complexities. This counter-application to traditional computing allows for the calculation of imprecise probabilities – the kind of information that the spatial information systems community wrestles with much of the time. Under the editorial guidance of internationally respected geoinformatics experts, this indispensable volume addresses quality aspects in the entire spatial data mining process, from data acquisition to end user. It also alleviates what is often field researchers’ most daunting task by organizing the wealth of concrete spatial data available into one convenient source, thereby advancing the frontiers of spatial information systems.

As Geographic Information Systems (GIS) have developed and their applications have been extended, the issue of uncertainty has become increasingly recognized. It is highlighted by the need to demystify the inherently complex geographical world to facilitate computerization in GIS, by the inaccuracies that emerge from man-machine interactions in dat

Maps are a fundamental resource in a diverse array of applications ranging from everyday activities, such as route planning through the legal demarcation of space to scientific studies, such as those seeking to understand biodiversity and inform the design of nature reserves for species conservation. For a map to have value, it should provide an accurate and timely representation of the phenomenon depicted and this can be a challenge in a dynamic world. Fortunately, mapping activities have benefitted greatly from recent advances in geoinformation technologies. Satellite remote sensing, for example, now offers unparalleled data acquisition and authoritative mapping agencies have developed systems for the routine production of maps in accordance with strict standards. Until recently, much mapping activity was in the exclusive realm of authoritative agencies but technological development has also allowed the rise of the amateur mapping community. The proliferation of inexpensive and highly mobile and location aware devices together with Web 2.0 technology have fostered the emergence of the citizen as a source of data. Mapping presently benefits from vast amounts of spatial data as well as people able to provide observations of geographic phenomena, which can inform map production, revision and evaluation. The great potential of these developments is, however, often limited by concerns. The latter span issues from the nature of the citizens through the way data are collected and shared to the quality and trustworthiness of the data. This book reports on some of the key issues connected with the use of citizen sensors in mapping. It arises from a European Co-operation in Science and Technology (COST) Action, which explored issues linked to topics ranging from citizen motivation, data acquisition, data quality and the use of citizen derived data in the production of maps that rival, and sometimes surpass, maps arising from authoritative agencies.