A design support environment for spatio-temporal database applications

Much work has been undertaken in recent years to provide temporal support for geographic information systems (GIS). Attention has focussed primarily on uniform temporal modelling, where the temporal type (for example, interval, bitemporal element) is constant throughout the model, as is the level at which it is integrated. This approach has only a limited range of application. This paper proposes an alternative strategy which allows an application developer, within a non-prescriptive design environment, to develop a spatio-temporal model specific to the particular application requirements. A set of temporal classes are given which aim to capture sufficient temporal semantics for a wide range of application domains, Additionally, a model is defined which provides a framework for the integration of the spatial, temporal and attribute components of an object. A prototype CASE tool has been developed to support the method.