The MMI Earth Sciences Semantic Framework

Authors:
Luis Bermudez (SURA) - presenter
Carlos Rueda (MBARI)
John Graybeal (UCSD)

Abstract:
Semantic interoperability is the ability to exchange meaning among computer systems. Such ability is needed to successfully share knowledge across all Earth sciences. The best approach toward semantic interoperability requires a designed framework, and operationally tested software components and infrastructure within that framework. Currently available technologies make a scientific semantic framework feasible, but its development requires sustainable architectural vision and development processes.

This poster outlines the MMI Semantic Framework, including recent progress on it and its client applications. The design and prioritization of the semantic framework capabilities are based on real-world scenarios in Earth systems. The MMI Semantic Framework consists of tools, infrastructure, operational procedures, and community best practices. A core component is the MMI Ontology Registry and Repository (ORR). This system includes support for community creation and sharing of semantic content, ontology registration, version management, and seamless integration of user-friendly tools and application programming interfaces.

The poster presents: key uses cases and associated requirements; architectural components for semantic mediation including registry and repository for vocabularies, ontology, and term mappings; client applications that leverage the MMI ORR for data aggregation, such as OOSTethys (http://www.oostethys.org) and a faceted browser developed by Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute; client applications that provide assistance on metadata creation based on vocabularies registered at the MMI ORR (Simple SensorML creator); and explanations of the components used for the Ocean Observatories Initiative Cyberinfrastructure Semantic Prototype.