Algebraic Specifications of Wayfinding Using Cognitive Map

TL;DR

This paper presents an algebraic formalization of environment representation for wayfinding, using Haskell to model street networks and validate navigation processes based on common sense geospatial knowledge.

Contribution

It introduces a novel algebraic specification approach for modeling and verifying wayfinding in street networks using formal methods and functional programming.

Findings

Formal specifications enable rapid prototyping of street networks.

Execution of specifications allows consistency checks.

Modeling of Tehran's street network demonstrates practical applicability.

Abstract

This paper outlines the formal representation of the environment in which it is assumed that a wayfinding process has been occurred through a street network. Wayfinding is a process in which people navigate themselves from an origin to a destination by their common sense geospatial knowledge. Na\"ive Geography is a field of study that investigates the body of knowledge that people have about the surrounding geospatial world and it deals with common sense knowledge of space. The image schemas which are needed for wayfinding with boundary relations method have been extracted and represented formally with algebraic specifications. These specifications are mentioned in the syntax of a functional programming language, Haskell. It allows us to execute written algebraic specifications and provide conditions for rapid prototyping and formal checks on consistency. These formal specifications are implemented for modeling street network of a part of Tehran, Capital city of Iran.