Based on the MicroImages documentation regarding the Spatial Manipulation Language (SML) within TNTmips, creating turn-key applications involves utilizing SML to build customized geospatial workflows. These scripts can operate on data within TNT Project Files, and when bundled, they form an APPLIDAT (APPLIcation plus DATa) package.
Here is how you create turn-key applications (APPLIDAT) using SML scripts: 1. Understand SML and APPLIDAT
SML (Spatial Manipulation Language): A scripting language built into TNTmips/TNTview designed for automating tasks, creating custom processes, and designing user interfaces.
APPLIDAT: This is a technique where SML scripts and necessary geospatial data are bundled together. When a user runs the script, the data is automatically loaded, removing the need for them to browse, locate, or link files manually. 2. Steps to Create a Turn-Key Application
Write the SML Script: Create your script using the SML editor. Your script can create custom menus, dialogs, and toolbars.
Bundle Data and Script: Store the SML script along with the required input geodata objects (rasters, vectors, CAD) inside a single or related TNT Project File(s).
Create a Toolbar/Menu Interface: The application can be designed to present a user-friendly interface using custom toolbars, allowing users to run complex processes via button clicks.
Package for Distribution: The final package includes the script and the data, making it “turn-key”—the user simply opens the script within TNTmips or TNTview. 3. Example Workflow (From SML Tutorial)
Open SML Editor: Start in the SML editor (File / Open /.SML File).
Define Inputs/Outputs: Write the script to prompt for input rasters (e.g., DEM) and define output objects.
Run/Test: Use the “Run” button to test the script with sample data.
Create Interface: Add buttons to the toolbar for a turn-key experience. 4. Key Features of SML Applications
Automated Data Loading: No file navigation required by the end-user.
Custom Instructions: You can embed HTML instructions to make the script easier to use.
Process Customization: Allows automating processes not found in standard TNT menus.
If you are looking to build a tailored geospatial tool for users who are not experts in TNTmips, bundling your SML script as an APPLIDAT is the intended workflow. Let me know if you would like me to: Explain the basics of writing a simple SML script Show how to create custom dialog boxes in SML Discuss the differences between TNTview and TNTmips Writing Scripts with SML – MicroImages
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