About This Article
"I would like to implement route search with MapFan DB, but how is the Road data structured?"
"What are links and nodes?"
We often receive these questions from those who using MapFan DB's road network data for the first time.
Road network data is fundamental for implementing route search and navigation functions.
This data consists of two basic elements: "links" and "nodes."
Understanding these is the first step toward implementing route search functionality.
In this article, we will explain the basic structure of road network and the information contained in the data.
💡 This article is recommended for:
・ Those who using MapFan DB's road data for the first time
・ Those who have heard the terms "link" and "node" but don't know the details
・ Those who want to learn the basics before implementing route search function
Road Network Basics
Road networks are used to calculate routes from a starting point to a destination and to provide navigation guidance once a route has been set.
Road network data contains detailed information that is not visible on maps and can be used for a variety of purposes and applications.
Links and Nodes
Road network data is primarily formed by two basic structures: "links" and "nodes."
Link (Line)
Data representing a road section, which is a line connecting specific start and end points (e.g., between two intersections).
To allow links to represent not only straight lines but also curves, shape points are inserted along the link (connecting short straight lines to form a curve).
Node (Point)
Point data that indicates where links intersect (e.g., intersections) or the endpoints of links (e.g., dead ends).
By clearly representing road connections through links and nodes, it becomes possible to implement route search functions, such as calculating the shortest route to a destination.
Information Contained in Road Network Data
As an example, road network data includes the following information:
Link Attribute Information:
- Road type (expressway, general road, etc.)
- Traffic regulations (closed-to-traffic, one-way, etc.)
- Information of attribute in the link: structures or characteristics that apply only to specific sections within a link (bridges, tunnels, railroad crossings, etc.)
Node Attribute Information:
- Presence and absence of traffic lights
- Intersection names
And more
Properly understanding and utilizing this attribute information is the key to providing high-quality route search and navigation.
Summary
Basics of Road Network Data:
✅ Road networks consist of "links (lines)" and "nodes (points)"
✅ Links represent road sections, and nodes represent intersections or endpoints
✅ Curves can also be expressed using shape points
✅ Various attribute information is assigned to links and nodes
✅ By utilizing this information, route search and navigation functions can be implemented.
How did you find this article?
We introduced the basics of road network data.
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