Linking Objects

Diagram Designer

Diagram Designer

Linking Objects

 

One of the features of Diagram Designer is object linking.  Most objects have link points (the little red Xs), either built-in or user defined, which allow linking of lines and connectors.  Once a line (or connector) is linked to an object, moving that object also moves or re-calculates the line or connector.  An example of this:

  1. Polygon and Odd Rounded 2 object are linked together by a connector.
  1. Polygon is moved to the right, connector adjusts.

Linking lines and connectors to objects can be a little tricky; basically, the procedure is as follows:

  1. draw the (non-line, non-connector) objects required
  1. initiate a connector draw operation
  1. place the first point of the connector on a link point of the polygon.  Make sure the green box is present, signifying that the connector start is exactly on the link point, and that a link will be created.  If the green box is not present, no link will be made.
  1. drag the other end of the connector to the Odd Rounded 2 object link point.  Make sure the green box is showing as well.  If the mouse is directly over the link point, the green box should appear.
  1. release the mouse button.  The connector should be linked to the objects.
 

If a line or connector is linked to objects, selecting that line should cause the green boxes to appear.  If they do not appear, the endpoints of the line or connector must be moved to a location directly over the link point - some magnification may help in this operation.

1. Normal view (100%) 2. Zoom 1600% 3. Select connector 4. Move endpoint to link point.  Link is created.

Using the Connect links tool (Diagram menu) will force link connections also, but only for those lines and connectors whose endpoints lie exactly (ie. within the internal accuracy of Diagram Designer) over a link point.