New Linear Optimization Technology Compresses Spatial Data Files
Vancouver, BC- June 4, 2007 - Safe Software, makers of the FME® spatial ETL (Extract, Transform, and Load) platform for geospatial data, today announced a joint agreement with Oregon-based TCI Software. The agreement will see TCI’s Curvefitter linear optimization technology integrated into the upcoming release of FME 2007, providing users with the capability to create smooth linework from "point to point" linework while reducing file size by up to 80 percent. File size reductions of this magnitude will result in much faster processing times for CAD and GIS data, and fewer processing problems caused by limited available memory. By intelligently inserting arcs into linework that depicts map features, Curvefitter technology also allows FME users to create more visually appealing maps.
“What is particularly exciting about this integration is that FME’s sophisticated data manipulation capability allows Curvefitter technology to be extended beyond simple linework to process complex linework with shared boundaries. FME can automatically determine which linework segments are used by multiple boundaries, curvefit those segments separately, and then reassemble the boundaries using the same curvefitted segment. Complex linework with topology such as parcels, or natural features such as vegetation and soil types, can now be optimized while maintaining topological integrity,” said Tom Inloes, President of TCI Software.
Curvefitter creates dramatically smaller file sizes by reducing the amount of data required to represent smooth linework. Guided by a fuzzy logic processor, Curvefitter replaces a series of line segments with a combination of lines and arc segments to create smooth curving lines. In many cases this process improves the visual appeal of the map by recreating curves that are present in real-world features.
“Safe Software is extremely pleased that TCI has joined the growing number of companies that have made valuable functionality available to a wider number of users by integrating their technology into FME,” said Dale Lutz, VP of Product Development, Safe Software. “Since 1992, AutoCAD users worldwide have employed Curvefit technology. Now we can bring the power of Curvefit to all applications that support arcs, including Autodesk AutoCAD®, Bentley MicroStation®, Intergraph GeoMedia®, ESRI ArcGIS® and Oracle® Spatial.”
Curvefitter technology is available as an extra-cost item for the upcoming release of FME 2007. For more information on Curvefitter, visit www.safe.com/curvefitter.
More about Safe Software and FME
Established in 1993, Safe Software is the maker of FME, a powerful spatial ETL (Extract, Transform and Load) technology that enables translation, transformation, and web-based distribution of geospatial data in over 190 GIS, CAD, raster and database formats. FME is used in over 116 countries by all levels of government, the utilities sector, and resource industries including mining, oil and gas, and forestry.
FME manages database loading, data extraction from legacy systems, merging multiple data sources, coordinate system conversion, and format to format translation for the exchange of map data. FME consists of four major components: a translation engine (FME Universal Translator), a graphical authoring environment (FME Workbench), a data inspection tool (FME Viewer), and application extenders that directly integrate into a variety of spatial applications. Visit www.safe.com for more information.
More about TCI Software
TCI has specialized in automated mapping tools and services for over 16 years and offers a refined, field-tested product line. Since 1991, TCI has been an Autodesk Registered Developer, providing advanced tools and services for the creation, conversion and maintenance of AutoCAD maps. TCI has completed dozens of projects and developed hundreds of automated mapping tools. For more information, please visit www.tcicorp.com.
For More Information:
Jaylene Crick
Director of Marketing
Safe Software Inc.
(604) 501-9985 ex 224
jaylene.crick@safe.com
FME and SpatialDirect are registered trademarks of Safe Software Inc.