中文摘要：

基于多尺度地图数据库建设中地图自动综合的终止判断条件，引出多尺度地图空间相似关系问题。基于集合论给出空间相似关系的定义，论述空间相似关系的5个性质，即反身性、对称性、非传递性、多尺度自相似性与尺度依赖性；并从图形相似和属性相似的角度论述多尺度地图空间相似关系的分类体系。该成果是研究地图自动综合和地图空间相似查询等的基础。

英文摘要：

Spatial similarity relations are put forward with the introduction of automated map generalization in the construction of multi-scale map databases. Then the definition of spatial similarity relations is presented based on set theory and the characteristics of spatial similarity are discussed in detail, including reflexivity, symmetry, non-transitivity, self-similarity in multi-scale spaces,and scale-dependence. Finally the classification systems for spatial similarity relations in multi-scale map spaces are discussed from the viewpoints of graphic similarity and attribute similarity. This research may be useful to automated map generalization and spatial similarity retrieval.