LVB (SuperMap proprietary format)
Nov 5,2025

GISBox is a one-stop 3D GIS data editing, conversion and publishing platform that supports editing in multiple GIS formats such as OSGB/GEOTIFF/RVT, converting to 3DTiles/Terrain and publishing.

Introduction

LVB is a proprietary geospatial data format developed by Beijing SuperMap Software Company, primarily used for storing and managing vector map data. Optimized for the SuperMap GIS platform, it supports efficient spatial data compression and fast retrieval, making it a popular choice for professional geographic information system applications in areas such as land planning and smart cities. It boasts strong compatibility and seamless integration with the SuperMap suite of software.

File Structure

The LVB file structure includes the following core modules:

Header metadata area: Stores file version, coordinate system definition, spatial reference information, and other information to ensure cross-platform data compatibility.
Geometry data storage area: Organizes data into vector elements such as points, lines, and polygons, supports topological storage, and may use hierarchical or block storage strategies to optimize read and write performance for large data volumes.
Attribute data storage area: Attribute tables associated with geometric elements (such as field names, data types, and ranges), supporting text, numeric, and date types. Storage may be in an external database or internal binary format.
Index and auxiliary information area: Contains spatial indexes (such as R-trees and quadtrees) to accelerate range queries, as well as metadata such as projection parameters, timestamps, and data source descriptions.

Pros

Highly compatible with the SuperMap software ecosystem: The LVB format is deeply integrated with the SuperMap GIS platform, supporting seamless reading, editing, and processing within the SuperMap suite of software, reducing data conversion and compatibility issues.
Strong functional adaptability: Supports a wide range of SuperMap software features, such as map creation, spatial analysis, and data visualization, fully leveraging the software's strengths.
High data processing efficiency: Optimized for SuperMap software, it offers high read and write performance even with large data volumes, making it suitable for processing massive amounts of geographic information data.
Security and controllability: As a proprietary format, LVB may have more stringent data protection mechanisms, making it suitable for scenarios with high data security requirements.

Cons

Limited compatibility: LVB is a proprietary format of SuperMap software and may not be directly readable or editable by other GIS software, limiting data sharing and cross-platform use.
High learning curve: Users need to be familiar with SuperMap software's operating procedures and LVB format specifications, increasing the learning and usage barriers.
Lack of openness: Proprietary formats may lack support from the open source community, making it difficult for users to obtain external assistance or solutions when encountering problems.
Dependence on the SuperMap software ecosystem: If users need to switch to another GIS platform, LVB data may need to be converted, increasing the complexity and cost of data migration.

Application Scenario

As the proprietary spatial data format of Beijing SuperMap Software, the LVB format primarily serves the field of geographic information systems (GIS). Typical applications include efficient storage and exchange of vector/raster data, support for 3D urban modeling and geological visualization, integration into industry solutions such as land planning and traffic management, and optimization of the compression and indexing of massive spatial data, meeting the high-performance analysis requirements of scenarios such as smart cities and environmental monitoring.