tilesources

A tilesource is a method for delivering map images to a client application, typically a web browser or mobile app. It involves breaking down a large map into smaller, square images called tiles. These tiles are then served by a server and assembled by the client to display a continuous map. This approach is efficient for rendering large geographical areas, as only the visible tiles need to be downloaded and displayed, reducing bandwidth and processing load.

Different tilesources employ various protocols and formats. A common example is the XYZ tilesource, which organizes tiles in a hierarchical structure based on zoom level, row, and column. The URL for an XYZ tile typically follows a pattern like `/{z}/{x}/{y}.png`, where z represents the zoom level, x is the column index, and y is the row index. Other tilesource formats exist, such as TMS (Tile Map Service) and WMTS (Web Map Tile Service), which offer different functionalities and metadata.

The content of tilesource images can vary greatly. They might be static map layers, such as satellite imagery or road maps, or dynamic layers that change based on real-time data, like traffic conditions or weather patterns. Developers can create their own custom tilesources to display specialized geographic data or integrate with specific mapping platforms. Understanding tilesources is fundamental for anyone developing or working with interactive maps and geospatial applications.