Development of the Theory of Six Value Aggregation Paths in Network Modeling for Spatial Analyses

Abstract

The dynamic development of spatial structures entails looking for new methods of spatial analysis. The aim of this article is to develop a new theory of space modeling of network structures according to six value aggregation paths: minimum and maximum value difference, minimum and maximum value decrease, and minimum and maximum value increase. The authors show how values presenting (describing) various phenomena or states in urban space can be designed as network structures. The dynamic development of spatial structures entails looking for new methods of spatial analysis. This study analyzes these networks in terms of their nature: random or scale-free. The results show that the paths of minimum and maximum value differences reveal one stage of the aggregation of those values. They generate many small network structures with a random nature. Next four value aggregation paths lead to the emergence of several levels of value aggregation and to the creation of scale-free hierarchical network structures. The models developed according to described theory present the quality of urban areas in various versions. The theory of six paths of value combination includes new measuring tools and methods which can impact quality of life and minimize costs of bad designs or space destructions. They are the proper tools for the sustainable development of urban areas.

Keywords

• network model
• spatial analysis
• scale-free network
• value aggregation