Automation of geospatial raster data analysis and metadata updating: An in-database approach

Abstract

This paper proposes a spatial data infrastructure (SDI) module for management of a continuous flow of geospatial images and related metadata. Examples of such flows are continuosly acquired map scans from the digitalization process of an old maps collection, or the satellite imagery retrieved through a receiving station. Storage of the raster data in a database is a key feature of the system, which enhances the usual tasks and usability of SDI systems. The analytical procedures deployed within the data store perform automated raster analysis and content-based metadata extraction. This functionality is illustrated with two experiments - improving the display of early map scans and snow and cloud detection from satellite images. Applications of the proposed approach and utilization of the prototype application by geographers and cartographers are discussed.