Logo image
Selection of triangle sets for the analysis of randomly spaced data
Thesis   Open access

Selection of triangle sets for the analysis of randomly spaced data

E.R. Magnus
Honours, Murdoch University
1980
pdf
Magnus1980.pdfDownloadView
Whole Thesis Open Access

Abstract

A triangulation scheme is proposed to provide a foundation in the direct analysis of randomly spaced data. It presents a framework for producing the maximum possible information about spatial differences in the data set, such as the extraction of a wind field from a set of barometric pressures recorded at stations that report irregularly or are mobile. Five theorems regarding triangular nets are proven. They allow calculation of the number of non-overlaping triangles, as well as generalizations that prove that any net of triangles can be converted into any other net through the adjustment of diagonals of quadrilaterals a feature of the algorithm. The triangulation algorithm is given and explained, followed by a FORTRAN program listing, including supporting graphical programs which plot the data, the triangular net and illustrate the concept of the selection process. A definition of optimality is included which is based on triangle shape; this definition is used to derive an algorithm which seeks the most optimal triangular net. The results indicate that a powerful tool is available for data analysis, a tool limited only by data accuracy which is independent of the inconsistencies of manual, subjective analysis.

Details

Metrics

239 File views/ downloads
77 Record Views
Logo image