segmentset

A segment set is a data structure used in computer science to efficiently manage and query a collection of disjoint intervals on a one-dimensional line. Each interval, or segment, is defined by a start point and an end point. The primary purpose of a segment set is to allow for rapid determination of which segments overlap with a given query point or interval.

The construction of a segment set typically involves sorting the endpoints of all segments. This allows for a structured organization that facilitates quick lookups. Operations commonly supported by a segment set include insertion of new segments, deletion of existing segments, and the crucial query operation. The query operation can answer questions such as "which segments contain this point?" or "which segments overlap with this interval?".

Segment sets find applications in various fields, including computational geometry, geographic information systems (GIS), and resource allocation problems. For instance, in GIS, a segment set could represent the geographical extents of different features, allowing for efficient retrieval of features located within a specific map area. In resource management, it might track the time intervals during which certain resources are occupied. The efficiency of segment set operations, often logarithmic in the number of segments, makes them a valuable tool for handling large datasets with frequent interval-based queries.