Sketchables

A sketchable graph contains both the plot of a model variable and a sketchable plot that the user can update. Sketchables are very useful for putting in expectations about results and then simulating to compare the actual outcomes of the simulation to those expectations.

To define a sketchable graph

A sketchable graph allows model users to "sketch out" their goal or expectation of the performance for a single variable against the variable's actual performance over a simulation run.

When you create a sketchable graph, the graph displays two curves: the actual performance of the variable (shown in the following example as a red curve), along with the user-created sketch of the curve for that variable (shown as an orange curve).

1. Open the Graph Properties Panel for the graph pad you want to edit. (Double-click the graph pad in Edit mode, or, in Explore mode, right-click and then choose Edit Propertiesfrom the menu that appears.)
2. At the bottom of the panel, add a variable defined as a graphical function over time to Sketchable Options. This is the variable the user will sketch.
3. Be sure to uncheck the Multiscale option under Left Y Axis.
4. Click OK to save your graph definition.

You and your model users can now create the sketch by clicking inside the graph and dragging to draw the desired curve. When the model simulation runs, the actual curve appears on that graph along with the sketch.

Using a Sketchable for Input

It is not necessary to include a variable in a sketchable graph. You can include only the graphical function being sketched and in this way the sketchable becomes an input device analogous to the knobs that are displayed in Explor mode. As you change the graph, the model will be simulated when you release the mouse button and you can instantly see the results of the change made.