1. SPatial And Time Series Information Modelling (SPATSIM) Thokozani Mbhele Model developed by D Hughes

2. Introduction SPATSIM is a system that makes use of shapefiles
for storing spatial data and database tables for
storing other data
The information required for water resource
assessments is extensive and diverse.
To be able to use the information effectively,
efficient access, display and analysis tools are
required.

3. SPatial And Time Series Information Modelling (SPATSIM)
What can SPATSIM do
link spatial data with many other forms of data (including time series).
import/export data from/to a variety of different raw data formats.
efficient access to information.
editing and displaying information.
allows for the generation and storage of secondary information created within the system.
able to develop links to a wide variety of analysis methods, specifically hydrological and water resource models.

4. Software Design Overview
Developed with Delphi
using ESRI MapObjects
Spatial data (polygons,
points or lines)
accessed through
shape files
Linked using
four Data
Dictionaries
Other data (numbers,
text, matrices, graphics
time series, etc.) accessed through
database tables

5. Other Internal Utilities
Monthly & Annual Duration Curves
Generate duration curve data from time series data.
High & Low Flow Frequency Data
Analyse time series data for a set of standard extreme values.
Rendering (spatial visualisation) using single integer or real numbers.

6. Group rendering using
integer number data
representing a region
type.
Value rendering using
real number data
representing mean
annual runoff

7. External Utilities Generic Time Series Display and Analysis Program
Allows multiple time series to be displayed and further analysed.
Generic Linking Approach to a Large Number of Model Programs
Select spatial element(s) to be modelled.
Select model and define model data requirements.
Save model setup and run model.

10. Model requirements
defined by a simple
text file. These can
be input data as well
as destinations for
data to be saved after
the model run has
been completed.
Associate database information
with model requirements

11. ‘Models’ Currently Linked to SPATSIM
Monthly rainfall-runoff and reservoir simulation model (Pitman model).
Daily rainfall-runoff and reservoir simulation model (VTI model).
Streamflow patching and extrapolation model.
Several models developed to support the determination of environmental instream flow requirements for rivers.
Hydraulic calibration model for river X-sections.

12. Conclusions
SPATSIM is still under development but it is also being used.
For many environmental flow requirement studies in South Africa
For a rainfall-runoff modelling study in Zambia
The basic design has been demonstrated to be robust and flexible.
New features can be added quickly
New external processes can be added without changing the main code.
It appears to be well suited to regional water resource assessment problems.