A pattern-based framework of change operators for ontology evolution

Abstract

Change operators are the building blocks of ontology evolution. Different layers of change operators have been suggested. In this paper, we present a novel approach to deal with ontology evolution, in particular, change representation as a pattern-based layered operator framework. As a result of an empirical study, we identify four different levels of change operators based on the granularity, domain-specificity and abstraction of changes. The first two layers are based on generic structural change operators, whereas the next two layers are domain-specific change patterns. These layers of change patterns capture the real changes in the selected domains. We discuss identification and integration of the different layers. © Springer-Verlag 2009.