Does GeoBase require a spatial database?
No, GeoBase does not need a spatial database. The GeoBase file system includes all of the spatial indexes and functions required to build a geospatial system. In fact, in most cases GeoBase eliminates the need for expensive 3rd party spatial databases allowing you to build a spatially-enabled enterprise-grade application with a lower cost compared to relational databases such as SQL Server or MySQL.
GeoBase supports the following query types as specified by the Open Geospatial Consortium:
- Spatial Measurements: Finds the distance between points, polygon area, etc.
- Spatial Predicates: Allows true/false queries such as 'is there a residence located within a mile of the area we are planning to build the landfill?'
- Constructor Functions: Creates new shapes with an SQL query specifying the various points and lines that compose it
- Observer Functions: Queries which return specific information about a shape such as the location of the center of a circle
GeoBase will soon support the final requirement for being a full spatial data base:
- Spatial Functions: Modify existing shapes to create new ones, for example by providing a buffer around them.
Published, May 17th 2009, 22:04