Adding submodels

The following procedure is used to add a submodel to the model diagram.

1. Click on the submodel symbol in the tool bar.
2. Drag the mouse from a blank area of the desktop canvas, corresponding to one corner of the submodel envelope, to the opposite corner of the area that you want to be enclosed in the submodel envelope. If you drag outside the model window during this operation, it will be scrolled in that direction bringing more space into view.
3. Repeat (2) if you want to add more submodels.

Alternatively,

1. Click on the submodel symbol in the tool bar.
2. Click on the place where you want to put one corner of the submodel envelope. The cursor becomes a 'cross-hairs' indicating another click on the diagram is needed to finish adding the link.
3. Click on the opposite corner of the area that you want to be enclosed in the submodel envelope. If you miss the exact point, you can keep the button down and drag to it. If you drag outside the model window during this operation, it will be scrolled in that direction bringing more space into view.
4. Repeat (2) and (3) if you want to add more submodels.

You can also add a single submodel using either of the methods you would use to add a single node without changing mode, i.e.,

• Drag from the submodel symbol to the first corner point on the diagram, or
• Right click at the corner point to get the context menu, and select "create new -> submodel".

Either of these actions sets the cursor to 'cross-hairs', requiring another click to position the diagonally opposite corner of the new submodel.

Note that the submodel you make may, or may not, enclose existing model elements. Simile will not allow you to add a submodel with the boundary passing through an existing component other than a link. When making a submodel, you can either make it to enclose some existing model elements, or it can begin life empty, with the intention of adding elements later on. The following notes apply to the two situations:

Submodel is drawn around existing model elements

The elements must be arranged so that it is possible to enclose them in a rectangle without enclosing any elements you don't want in the submodel. You may need to move them around prior to drawing the submodel envelope to achieve this. The elements are then deemed to be enclosed inside the submodel. Any links coming from outside this new submodel to elements inside it, or vice versa, will be redrawn to show a crossing point at the submodel boundary.

Submodel does not enclose existing elements

You need to find an empty area of your model diagram that is big enough to contain the new submodel. You may need to move existing model elements around in order to create some space.

In: Contents >> Working with model diagrams