A Representation-Oriented Taxonomy of Gradation

摘要

Gradation, the presence of gradual rather then abrupt boundaries around geographic entities, is one of the many complexities of geography which is beginning to be investigated for representation and analysis in formal models. Much of the research to date has been focused on specific applications, but some are starting to look at the underlying theory be hind this phenomenon, leading toward better understanding and better models. This work extends this theory with a taxonomy which describes and explains gradational situations, focusing on issues related to formal representation. This taxonomy has been beneficial in developing methods of representing this phenomenon in GIS and maps.