StockUse the Map and Model layer toolbar to lay out a map of your model (on the Map layer) and to build a model that can be simulated on your computer (on the Model layer). Note that the Map and Model layers have the same toolbar, although the options available for some tools differ depending on which layer you are currently viewing. Each tool on the Map and Model layer toolbar is described below.
StockClick this tool to create a stock. Click and hold this tool to select from a menu of different stock types. Stocks are accumulations. They collect whatever flows into them, net of whatever flows out of them.
FlowClick this tool to create a flow. Click and hold this tool to select from a menu of different flow types. The job of flows is to fill and drain accumulations. The unfilled arrow head on the flow pipe indicates the direction of positive flow.
ConverterClick this tool to create a converter. Click and hold this tool to select from a menu of different converter types. The converter holds values for constants, defines external inputs to the model, calculates algebraic relationships, and serves as the repository for graphical functions. In general, it converts inputs into outputs.
Action ConnectorClick this tool to create a connector. Click and hold this tool to select from a menu of different connector types. The job of a connector is to connect model entities to each other.
ModuleClick this tool to create a module. Modules are self-contained models that you can connect to other models. Modules allow you to break a single model into well-defined "chunks". Each module within a model is a cohesive model on its own, which you can run separately or within the larger model.
ButtonClick this tool to create a button. Click and hold this tool to select from a menu of different button types. Use buttons to make it easy for your model's users to understand and interact with the model. When clicked, buttons perform one of several operations such as navigating to a new location, executing a menu command, or providing pop-up information.
Sector FrameClick this tool to create a sector frame. Use sector frames to group functionally-related building blocks in a model. For example, in a model of a business organization, you might use a sector to represent each of the major processes under consideration. You might have a manufacturing sector, a marketing sector, a human resources sector, and a financial sector in the model. In a model of a food web, each of the major trophic levels might be represented by different sectors.
Graph PadClick this tool to create a graph pad. Use graphs pads to plot data generated by model simulations. The software supports three basic types of graphs: time series plots (X, Y, Z over time, as shown in the example below), scatter plots (X vs. Y), and bar graphs.
Click this tool to create a table pad. Use table pads to display numerical output from one or more entities in your simulations.
Status IndicatorClick this tool to create a status indicator. Use status indicators to provide status information about key outputs in your model. Status indicators tell model users the status of the model simulation at a glance, by displaying a color (green, yellow, or red) based on the parameters you define for the status indicator.
Click this tool to create a numeric display. Use a numeric display object to display the current output value for the associated model entity. Numeric displays are useful for getting a precise reading of what's going on in the model as a simulation unfolds.
Text BoxClick this tool to create a text box. Use text boxes to display text in your model. You can use text boxes to add labels, instructions, and explanatory text right on the model diagram.
Graphics FrameClick this tool to create a graphics frame. Graphics frames give you the ability to visually organize and annotate your model. You can use them to frame objects such as input/output devices and buttons. You can also use them to display imported pictures, graphics, and QuickTime movies.
Click this tool to use the arrow tool. Use the arrow tool to select building blocks and objects on the Interface, Map, and Model layers so that you can move, edit, or delete them. You also use the arrow tool to select items on the Equation layer.
Click this tool to use the paintbrush tool. Use the paintbrush tool to change the color of most model items, including building blocks, objects, backgrounds, and as model output. You can use the paintbrush tool to color items on all model layers.
DynamiteClick this tool to use the dynamite tool. Use the dynamite tool to delete items or data from your model.
GhostClick this tool to use the ghost tool. Use the ghost tool to create entity aliases. Entity aliases help you keep your diagrams tidy by allowing you to use the same entity in separate locations in your model. This helps you keep connections neat, as the following pictures illustrate.
Table Pad
Numeric Display
Arrow
Paintbrush
See Also