In this chapter, we described Oracle Spatial's raster data management feature called GeoRaster. We learned different methods to load raster data from files into the DB. The examples explained the public domain GDAL tool for loading raster data into the database. We also learned different applications for raster data, and how different types of raster data can be used in land management applications. These examples explained how to combine the vector and raster functions available in the database to solve many problems encountered in raster applications. GeoRaster features are used to illustrate the ease of doing raster analysis in the database, and the advantages of storing raster and vector data in the same data store are explained using the examples.
In the next chapter, we will discuss Java Stored Procedures as another way of extending Oracle Spatial capabilities. We'll also learn how to integrate existing Java code into the database using Java Stored Procedure concepts.