Geographic Automata Systems

Abstract

A novel approach to automata‐based modeling for spatial systems is described: geographic automata and Geographic Automata Systems. We detail a framework that takes advantage of the formalism of automata theory and GI Science to unite cellular automata and multi‐agent systems techniques, and provides a spatial approach to bottom‐up modeling of complex geographic systems that are comprised of infrastructure and human objects. The suitability of the framework is also discussed with reference to existing cellular automata and multi‐agent systems models used in urban studies. Practical implementation of the framework is illustrated with reference to an object‐based urban simulation environment and implementation of a popular socio‐spatial segregation model.