Introduction
Please note that IVION only accepts custom base map URLs that follow the Tile Map URL format. A Tile Map URL is a specific URL structure used to serve map tiles—small square images that, when combined, create a complete map. This method is widely used in web mapping applications to efficiently render large maps by dividing them into smaller, more manageable pieces. These tiles are typically loaded dynamically as you pan and zoom within the map.
Key Components of a Tile Map URL
A Tile Map URL includes placeholders for three variables:
Zoom level ({z}): Represents the zoom level of the map, with higher values providing more detail.
X-coordinate ({x}): Specifies the horizontal position of the tile in a grid for the given zoom level.
Y-coordinate ({y}): Specifies the vertical position of the tile in a grid for the given zoom level.
A typical Tile Map URL would look similar to this:
https://server.example.com/tiles/{z}/{x}/{y}.png
When you interact with the map, the application dynamically replaces these placeholders with actual values (e.g., zoom level 10, x-coordinate 512, y-coordinate 1024) to request the specific tile image for that location and zoom level.
Common Tile Servers
OpenStreetMap: https://tile.openstreetmap.org/{z}/{x}/{y}.png
Google Maps (Satellite Imagery): https://mt1.google.com/vt/lyrs=y&x=${x}&y=${y}&z=${z}
ESRI World Imagery: https://server.arcgisonline.com/ArcGIS/rest/services/World_Imagery/MapServer/tile/{z}/{y}/{x}
Procedure
Customize the IVION base maps using a Tile Map URL
To use a Tile Map URL in applications like IVION, ensure that the server hosting the tiles supports this URL structure and provides tiles in a compatible format. As a next step head into the settings (Global Admin or Site Admin permissions are needed) and change the settings according to your needs:
Change the base map for the main NavVis IVION Instance dashboard
Change the base map on a specific IVION site
Finally ensure that the "attribution" field is updated appropriately when configuring your custom base map. This is necessary to comply with copyright and licensing requirements associated with your chosen map provider. Proper attribution helps meet legal obligations and respects the terms of use set by the map provider.
FAQ
What is a Tile Map URL?
A Tile Map URL is a specific URL structure used to serve map tiles, which are small square images that combine to create a complete map.
What are the key components of a Tile Map URL?
The key components include the zoom level ({z}), the X-coordinate ({x}), and the Y-coordinate ({y}).
Can I use any URL for base maps in IVION?
No, IVION only accepts custom base map URLs that follow the Tile Map URL format.
What should I do to customize the IVION base maps?
You need to ensure the server supports the Tile Map URL structure, then change the settings in the IVION dashboard or specific site settings.
Is it necessary to update the attribution field when configuring a custom base map?
Yes, updating the attribution field is necessary to comply with copyright and licensing requirements.
What are some common Tile servers I can use?
Common Tile servers include OpenStreetMap, Google Maps (Satellite Imagery), and ESRI World Imagery.
Do I need special permissions to change the base map settings in IVION?
Yes, Global Admin or Site Admin permissions are needed to change the base map settings.
How does the application request specific tile images?
The application dynamically replaces the placeholders in the Tile Map URL with actual values for the zoom level, X-coordinate, and Y-coordinate.