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Model Source

Model Source​

The Model Source is a critical part of the Aegir Venue Map Data (VMD), serving as the bedrock for defining a venue. Comprising a collection of GeoJSON files and a root-level XML manifest venue_map_{venueKey}.xml, the Model Source encapsulates all the necessary data to model the venue's structure accurately.

The XML manifest is the heart of the Model Source, holding essential metadata such as geodetic coordinates for Apple and Google maps, among other useful details. These geodetic coordinates aid in locating the tile sources for various external mapping providers, promoting seamless integration with numerous map platforms.

The Model Source generates four GeoJSON files:

  • venue_map_{venueKey}.geojson: This file delineates the venue's structure, including buildings, floors, and places.
  • venue_map_{venueKey}_wayfinding.geojson: Contains the data necessary for wayfinding within the venue, like paths and nodes.
  • venue_map_{venueKey}_labels.geojson: Includes labels for different areas within the venue.
  • venue_map_{venueKey}_amenities.geojson: Describes the location and type of amenities available at the venue.

These files are created through the Aegir Venue Map Management System (VMMS), which employs SVG input, pinning tools, and human verification to ensure high fidelity and accuracy.

The Model Source serves a dual purpose: it forms the conceptual foundation for the object model and provides essential structure data to users when rendered through the MapLibre rendering engine. In conjunction with the Style, Icon, and Font sources, the Model Source facilitates a style-able view of the venue, providing extensive control over visualization aspects like fonts and icons.

Developers don't need to meet any specific technical requirements or specifications to use the Model Source. The required data is readily available through an endpoint with the structure https://vmd.aegirmaps.com/{venueKey}. For instance, https://vmd.aegirmaps.com/SMALL will load the SMALL venue map.

One of the key applications of the Model Source is its ability to provide access to each room's geodetic footprint, enabling deep linking into any area of the facility. This feature opens up a myriad of possibilities, such as selecting a room upon check-in or visualizing the room's position relative to other facilities or points of interest within a venue. However, bear in mind that the geodetic location might vary between map providers due to different sources of visual map information. Aegir prioritizes visual accuracy over geodetic accuracy to accommodate a broader range of use cases.