VGRID: A Generic, Dynamic HDF5 Storage Model for Georeferenced, Grid Data

This paper describes the Variable resolution GRID (VGRID) storage model designed to support the storage and retrieval of bathymetric data collected through the Precision Underwater Mapping (PUMA) System using the Tactical Environmental Data Server (TEDS) and the Naval Oceanographic Office's (NAVOCEANO) Digital Bathymetric Data Base - Variable (DBDB-V) Resolution product. Although VGRID has been developed for PUMA bathymetry, its generic implementation makes it suitable for use with any type of environmental data grid through the definition of a product specification. The VGRID API uses a bounce algorithm to search each resolution and extract the highest resolution data for a point query. In addition, three interpolation options are available for point queries: nearest neighbor, bilinear, and minimum curvature spline. The minimum curvature spline algorithm provides a feathering capability that effectively reduces the artifacts that often occur at the resolution boundaries of multiple resolution databases. Presented at the MTS/IEEE Oceans Conference and Exhibition (2002) held in Biloxi, Mississippi on 29-31 October 2002. Published in the Proceedings of the MTS/IEEE Oceans Conference and Exhibition (2002), p900-907, 2002, (NRL/PP/7440-02-1003).