Quadtrees
A tree structure that recursively divides 2D space into quadrants — used to index spatial data and answer 'what's in this region' queries efficiently.
Why we need this / what value this brings
Gives efficient spatial lookups without needing a database extension — useful when indexing needs to happen in application memory or on the client.
When to use this
In-memory or client-side spatial indexing (e.g. clustering map markers in the browser) rather than database-level queries, which PostGIS handles better.
How to use or implement this
Mostly relevant client-side (e.g. clustering pins on a map at different zoom levels) rather than as Localz's primary server-side geo index.
Research questions
- When would a quadtree be the right structure vs. relying on PostGIS/GiST indexing at the database level — mainly relevant for in-memory/client-side spatial indexing?
Empty folder — drop notes, links, and findings here as you research.