XFM (XML Feature Modeling) Pre-publishing
XFM DGN files can contain self-embedded attribute data which are stored in XML fragments. In the iDPR file, the iDPR elements are linked to attributes which are stored in a database. iDPR files are Web optimized cache files. An index file is also generated and used to tie the iDPR file to the database. The iDPR Converter copies the XML properties from the DGN XFM file and stores them in a database table that can be accessed by the iDPR file from a Bentley Geo Web Publisher server.
The table creation process (number of columns and column definition) is automatic and performed by the iDPR Converter. The table is created from the XFM schema that contains the attributes definition for each feature. This table is a cache and is overwritten each time a new conversion is started. When multiple files containing the same set of features and covering a given geographical area are converted, the process is twofold: first, the features designed in the input parameter of the iDPR Converter are pre-published and merged into one single iDPR file, then, all their attributes are copied to one single database, thus offering a single point of entry for Bentley Geo Web Publisher searches and reports.
ESRI SHP File Support
Shape file support works in a similar way as XFM pre-publishing. The graphical information is pre-published to an iDPR file, and the attribute information is copied to a database table. The table definition and creation is handled by the iDPR Converter from the SHP file schema structure.
DWG File Support
DWG files linked to database records can now be pre-published with the iDPR Converter and the linked database will be stored. The supported database linkage types are the same as in MicroStation 08.09.04.
Automated iDPR Generation
The new connection type and graphical source type in the Administration Program allow automated iDPR generation. When a DGN file or a set of DGN files are set as input parameters in the automated iDPR conversion, a new service called “Automated iDPR” starts the iDPR generation based on the parameters defined in the Administration Program user interface. If any of the DGN files are modified, the Automated iDPR generation will be launched automatically. While it is processing, users accessing the Web site will still be able to access data as they will view the "old" iDPR file. Once the new one is fully generated, it will overwrite the obsolete file. iDPR files are Web optimized cache files, this mechanism allows for updating in real time, as the data is updated while making sure that no "service interruption" occurs when the new cache is generated.
Scale Independent Text and Symbols
When publishing ODBC Spatial data or Oracle Spatial point features, a new option allows generating them as scale independent features. This option allows point text elements and point cell symbols to keep the same size regardless of the zoom level. This option can be defined for each layer, so a map can have layers with scale independent symbols and other layers with scale dependent symbols.
Customizable Tool Bar
This new option in the Site Author allows Web site creators and administrators to customize the tool bar associated with the Map Viewer.
Customizable Searches
Customized search code can be written and selected by users in the Site Author application. Samples are delivered and show how multiple questions can be answered at the same time as well as how fields can be pre-populated by database queries.
Custom Objects
This feature allows developers to create a Site Author Object that will be available in both the Site Author for defining settings and in the output Web site.
Point Redline
This is both a new feature and a development sample, the point redline Site Author Object is developed as a custom object, so it can be easily customized by developers.
It also contains functionality that can be used as is, with no customization. It allows users to add and remove point features to and from ODBC Spatial layers. Attributes can also be edited, and a list of values set up from the Site Author.
Enhanced Database Caching Options
For database live publishing, caching options are available to cache an entire layer once, cache the view content, or disable caching.
Vertical Tool Bar for the Info Object
Set this new feature in the property pane of the Site Author’s Info object. This is a useful option in the case where the Info object is placed horizontally in a Web site, as it leaves more space for the reports.
Locking Folders
This option in the Site Author allows site creators to decide whether a folder containing layers in the display object will be locked or not. This is useful if the folder contains layers that should always be turned off or on together.
Support of Rotated Text and Symbols
Point text and point cell layers can now have their rotation angle set from a database row. Radian and Degree are supported. If the database is Oracle, the default value will be radian and if it is ODBC Spatial the default value is degree.
Map Author
The Map Author has several new features. One new option allows users to add multiple layers in a map with a single operation. Default naming and symbology are set for layers. Layers can also be dragged and dropped in the Map Author tree pane in order to change their display order. Tool tips are now available for non selectable layers.
New in Previous Releases of Bentley Geo Web Publisher