Relativity of Explicit Conceptual Models

Published

August 1, 2004

Author(s)

David W. Flater

Abstract

Explicit conceptual models are supposed to capture knowledge of lasting value in a reusable form. Reuse of explicit conceptual models is hampered by arbitrary and application-specific constraints; any constraints that conflict with a new application must be altered or removed before the models can be reused. This paper explores seven facets of relativity in explicit conceptual models using Formal Concept Analysis, demonstrating first that the capture of application-specific constraints is inextricable from the modelling process, and second that the semantic differences between models built for different applications can themselves be modelled formally in most cases. By analyzing those differences, one can determine whether the applications themselves are sufficiently compatible at the conceptual level to enable integration.

Citation

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR) - 7148

Report Number

7148

NIST Pub Series

NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR)

Pub Type

NIST Pubs

Download Paper

https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.7148

Keywords

concept, conceptual model, integration, modelling, ontology, reuse, semantics

Citation

Flater, D. (2004), Relativity of Explicit Conceptual Models, NIST Interagency/Internal Report (NISTIR), National Institute of Standards and Technology, Gaithersburg, MD, [online], https://doi.org/10.6028/NIST.IR.7148 (Accessed October 14, 2025)