Virtual Relationships in Smart 3D

Issue

User needs a way to more simply define a common path through multiple relationships in the Smart 3D schema.

Environment

Not version specific

Resolution

Edges are virtual relationships that provide “shortcuts” between objects and data stored in the S3D databases. 

“Edges”是一些虚拟关系，存储于S3D数据库中，用来“直连”两种对象的。

In the example below, the edge Ship Structure System Generated Plate Part To Root Plate System provides a “shortcut” from the plate part to the root plate system, combining two instances of the relationship ShipStructure Design Hierarchy into one virtual relationship, or edge.

Edges are therefore vitally important to simplifying the definition and maintenance of attribute queries within Smart 3D. Edges exist for many common complex relationships in Smart 3D, like those shown in the example above, but not for all relationships required by users. For example, there is no delivered edge that will query root plate system properties from a manufactured plate part. So using the sample marine catalog provided with Smart 3D, a filter or query for manufactured plate parts with tightness attribute set to water-tight (a plate system property) cannot be created without using SQL.

Anytime the existing relationships in a database are found to be insufficient, the Edge Loader Tool should be used to add custom edges. Refer to the Smart 3D Edge Loader download (and included instructions) located in the View Downloads section under Smart3D > Freeware Tools and Utilities > Uncertified Tools.

These custom edges behave the same as delivered edges and can be used especially in filters but also in labels, drawings, reports, and elsewhere inside the Smart 3D application.

Custom edges are defined in individual XML files provided by Intergraph on-demand as requested by users. If a custom edge is needed but not available, please send a request to Intergraph support. A new edge XML file can then be provided and posted for public use as well.

Because of the risk involved with making schema changes, an “edge creator” tool is not yet available.

Cause

Informationa