Geometric Networks in ArcGIS
Geometric Networks in ArcGIS
2/2008
Types of Networks
Networks are of two types
Directed flow (geometric networks)
utility networks such as sewer and water systems; rivers and streams Elements on the network have no choice in travel decision. Flow direction is determined by the network characteristics alone. Referred to as geometric or utility networks by ESRI Available with ArcEditor level of ArcGIS
Undirected flow
Transportation networks such as streets Elements on the network make their own travel decisions. Flow direction not determined solely by network. Available thru Network Analyst extension
Network Topology
a procedure for ensuring the integrity of data applying topology rules for points and lines feature classes examined in av9edit_topo.doc
My guess is that each was developed by separate teams with different primary goals, with overlap occurring in the process
Note 1: If a Topology relationship class exists in a feature dataset, you cannot build a geometric network. Note 2: ArcEditor is required for either.
Multiple point and line feature classes can participate in a network but they must all be in the same feature dataset
However, not all line or point feature classes in the feature dataset have to participate The features within participating feature classes
May be moved if snapping is allowed Have one or two new attribute fields: Enabled and Ancillary Role (if Source/Sink)
If desired, you can create a network with empty feature classes, and populate by editing in ArcMap, or loading data
GISC 6382 UT-Dallas Briggs
Restrict flow via barriers, and observe effect on trace (pipe clog, pipe break, etc..)
Temporary barriers applied to junction or edge with Barrier tool in map document (e.g pipe break now) Semi-permanent barriers applied through the Enabled field in point or line feature classes in database (e.g pipe segment under construction)
Perform network analyses (e.g. find common ancestor, find connected segments)
Junction or edge Flags are the starting point for these various trace operations
Key Concepts
Networks are made up of:
Edges (derived from Line feature classes)
These have distance and direction
edges junctions
A pump station complex junction may itself consist of multiple water lines (edges) and valves (junctions)
Determined
Flow has been set for this part of the network
Undetermined
Flow cannot be determined for this part of the network given the sources and sinks that are established Acts the same as uninitialized flow Same symbol used as default, but can be changed via options
Identify complex edge feature classes Define Sources and Sinks Set weights
GISC 6382 UT-Dallas Briggs
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Recalculate flow after editing and before analysis with tool Display flow arrows via Flow/Display Arrows
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Network Weights
Cost to traverse an edge or junction
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Network Traces
Network Analysis
Tracing upstream and downstream Finding path Finding common ancestor Find connected
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Upstream trace
Downstream trace
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Finding Path
Find the best path between two flags
Upstream, downstream, connected From first flag to second flag
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Two types
Edge to junction rules Edge to edge rules
Cardinality
The number of features that can connect Number of edges a junction can connect to Number of junctions an edge can connect
Connectivity rules are set after the network is created by right clicking the network relationship class in ArcCatalog and going to Properties/Connectivity tab
Another option is to select Geometric Network Editor instead of going to Properties. (Probably easier once concept is understood)
GISC 6382 UT-Dallas Briggs
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