Mobilizing the semantic interpreter Pythia – Teaching engineering students to integrate GIS and soil data during in situ measurements

Abstract

A novel mobile Semantic Interpreter Pythia (SI) has been created by codifying an equally novel model-driven expert knowledge algorithm. Integrating data from databases and automating soil profiling, it offers consolidated knowledge and provides much-needed help to engineers in situ, operating either on-or off-line. Thus, preparatory work volume is reduced, and so is uncertainty. Pythia implements an ICT-based GIS-driven model focusing on the geotechnical aspect of soil conditions, while the mobile component undertakes in situ operations under GIS-guidance, by constantly exchanging and updating data. As the first SI Pythia trials have already been successfully completed, the need for appropriate education and training of future engineers looms large.