Spatial data handling for ITS: Perspective, issues and approaches

This paper studies problems related to spatial data handling in intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and it investigates solution approaches. The discussion focuses on three areas: (1) data management and processing, (2) dynamic data integration, and (3) data exchange and communications. For data management and processing, the paper considers the approach of the combined use of GIS and database management systems (DBMS). The framework under which GIS and DBMS are integrated and the interoperability requirements related to this framework are discussed. Unified location referencing systems, location referencing message specification, and ITS datum are major strategies proposed to address problems arising from dynamic data integration in ITS applications. The paper provides a review on the research associated with the development of these strategies and recommends the use of reference maps in places where data collection or reconciliation efforts can be coordinated. To facilitate data exchange and communications, the paper investigates the use of data dictionaries, data coding, and data models. Key issues related to their development are identified, and potential approaches to address these issues are suggested.