Mobile Geographical Information Systems (MOGIS) are applications capable of running on wireless devices. Two major hardware limitations have hindered the development of efficient MOGIS: (1) reduced screen sizes and (2) small memory capacities. An innovative approach that overcomes these shortcomings is the utilization of map generalization. Map generalization is a visualization and geospatial data reduction technique that emphasizes and suppresses information from digital maps in order to represent a specific theme at reduced scales, while meeting specific cartographic specifications and maintaining the aesthetic quality of the geospatial data. The primary objective of the Phase I program is to demonstrate the feasibility of applying map generalization technologies towards the development of MOGIS. NASA objectives are met by the creation of innovative visualization and geospatial presentation techniques for use in mobile computing. The results of the Phase I effort will be applied to a Phase II project directed towards the implementation a MOGIS prototype for personal digital assistants using map generalization technologies.
Potential Commercial Applications:The results of the research and development effort will facilitate the development of a mobile geographical information systems with improved visualization, presentation, analysis, and geospatial data collection capabilities. Some of the potential commercial applications include:1. Mobile geospatial data collection, presentation, and analytical tool for use in the field.2. Technology would permit more multi-purpose geospatial datasets3. Innovative geospatial data reduction technique without compromising the integrity of data4. Applicable to Internet-based geographical information systems
