WN (Work Network File)

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Introduction

In the GIS field, WN files usually refer to Work Network Files, which are used to store linear network data (such as roads, rivers, pipelines, etc.) in GIS, and contain structured information such as nodes (NOD), lines (LIN) and networks (NET).

File Structure

File header information

Stores metadata such as file type identification and data area starting position, which is used to define the basic properties and structural layout of the file.

Data area header information

Records the byte starting position and total number of bytes of each data structure, and manages the spatial distribution of topological elements such as lines, nodes, and networks through an index mechanism.

Topological data structure

Line (LIN) data: stores geometric information of linear features, such as coordinate sequence, length, direction, etc.
Node (NOD) data: records the spatial position and connection relationship of network intersections.
Network (NET) data: defines the topological association between lines and nodes, and builds a complete linear network model.

Attribute data area

Stores attribute information associated with topological data (such as road grade, river name, etc.), and realizes bidirectional association with geometric data through indexes.

Pros

**Structured storage: **supports multi-level topological relationships such as nodes, lines, and networks, facilitating complex network analysis;
**Efficient query: **quickly locate network elements through indexing mechanisms to improve spatial analysis performance.

Cons

Data dependency: A matching table workspace (WB file) is required to store attribute data, and independent use is limited;
Software compatibility: Some GIS platforms have limited support for WN files and require specific format conversion.

Application Scenario

It is suitable for GIS applications that need to manage, analyze or visualize linear network data, such as transportation network analysis, pipeline management, river system modeling, etc.

Example

Network File System.

Network File System.