Desktop GIS, CAD, and Extract Transform and Load (ETL) software provide a rich set of tools that the experienced operator can use to construct, edit, or process geometric objects. But few realize that creating and applying such functionality within the database is also possible and can be more effective, efficient, and less complicated.
While the Oracle database SDO_GEOMETRY
data type provides an excellent storage, search, and processing engine for spatial data, what users often overlook is its ability to provide geometry modification and processing capabilities. These can be used in database objects such as views, materialized views, or triggers for the implementation of specific business functionality; with that functionality being available to any software product that connects to the database.
The functions in Chapter 6, Implementing New Functions, were about highlighting the structure of an SDO_GEOMETRY
object and its processing...