数字高程模型是最重要的国家基础地理信息数据,基于GIS的数字地形分析的理论、方法与应用,是当今地理学、地貌学界,特别是地理信息科学研究的热点问题。本文从DEM的数据模型、数字地形分析的不确定性、分析方法、尺度效应、高性能计算方法以及地学应用等方面,对我国学者在该领域的研究情况,特别是研究成果进行较全面的梳理与分析。综述显示,我国具有一批从事数字高程模型与数字地形分析的高水平研究力量,研究方向紧跟国际前沿,并取得了丰硕的成果,部分研究内容具有显著创新,年轻一代科学家正加速成长。在黄土高原、青藏高原的区域数字地形分析方面更彰显我国科学家的优势与特色,在国际学术界产生了重要的影响。
Digital elevation model (DEM) is known to be one of the most important national fundamental geographic information data. The theory, method and application of digital terrain analysis (DTA) based on GIS is a hot research issue in geography, especially in the field of geographical information science. This paper makes an overall review on Chinese scholars' contribution to the research of DEM and DTA, especially to DEM data model, uncertainty, analysis method, scaling effect and high performance computing method, as well as its application in DTA. A few research groups in this field have made great progress recently, and young scholars are playing a critical role in the process. Their research has caught up with the international forefront, and achieved fruitful results in significant innovation. Some research, like DEM based regional geomorphological research on the Loess Plateau and Tibetan Plateau of China highlighted the contribution of Chinese scientists, which have had influence in the international academia to a certain degree.