A composite object model of an urban water network based on multidisciplinary knowledge bases. I. Composite object modeling

In order to model an urban water network, modelers have to cope with the interdisciplinary nature of the water network. To deal with the interdisciplinary nature, we have developed composite object modeling, a framework for constructing models on the basis of multiple domain knowledge bases. This modeling framework utilizes not only multiple domain knowledge, but also interface knowledge that bridges or interprets across disciplinary gaps among domains. A programming method combining object-oriented programming and logic programming is used to implement models on the framework. This method enables modelers to separate descriptions of the static structure of the models and those of the simulation procedures. By using the framework, we have also developed a knowledge system RARCOM (risk assessment and risk communication support system), which aims to support risk assessment and risk communication about the carcinogenicity of drinking water in an urban water network.