A Data Model and Method Framework for Cyberspace Map Visualization

Integrating cyberspace and geographic space through map visualization is a valuable approach for revealing distribution patterns and relational dynamics in cyberspace. The interdisciplinary integration of network science and geographic science has gained increasing attention in recent years. However, current geographic information data models are not suitable for representing cyberspace features and their relations, and there is a lack of general and systematic cyberspace map visualization methods. To address these problems, this paper introduces an integrated data model that aligns spatial and cyberspace features based on a "proxy mode". This model is designed to support both the visualization of data maps and the analysis of complex networks and graph layouts. In addition, a framework for cyberspace map visualization is introduced, comprising three main stages: "cyberspace data processing", "cyberspace data rendering", and "base map processing and map layout". Using the Routers, BrightKite, and Cables datasets, we developed a web-based CMV system and generated a statistical map, a node-link map, an edge bundling map, a flow map, and a feature distribution map. The experimental results showed that the proposed data model and method framework can be effectively applied to represent the distribution and relations of cyberspace features and help reveal the interaction patterns between cyberspace and geographic space.