Basic stuff.
For years the RELEX/WQS/WRR RBD module used to create Reliability Block Diagrams has had frustrating formatting limitations - there are great features as well, so no offense here, for example auto-alignment is a huge time saver..
Overarching Goal for PTC :
Make RBD Diagram creation similar to schematic or model based architecture diagram creation.
- CONNECTING LINE CONTROL! - Professional results are hard to achieve when one has to figure out where to place a block simply because the auto-routed, non-adjustable connector line gets in the way. Moving a block to accommodate the placement of the line so as to not interfere with the linking icon creates excess space. This is really frustrating when using redundant blocks, as the line placement requires strategic placement often leading to unnecessary, and large amounts of, white space . Vertical rise from a block connection point, versus creating a small jog...again, this could be an option. And suggesting "drop in a junction" is not the ideal answer to this complaint. Dropping another product name here, but Isograph, and any other SE tools, like Cameo, has PTC's diagramming beat soundly.
- Location and size of "Data Linking" icon - The data linking chain icon is annoying and always gets in the way of connecting lines. Provide option for position, size, shape, etc.
- Sheet to Sheet connectors - This is basic stuff. If I cross onto another sheet, the tool should automatically provide for a connector...not a "junction", but a schematic like connector. It should be visually formattable, with text edit...without adding another text box.. Also, provide an option to automatically add a sheet-to-sheet connector; i.e. some may not want a sheet to sheet connector added automatically.
- Provide an online library of "Blocks". The tool allows for some creation, but the restrictions quickly becomes evident. The symbols in the Graphic > (Image > Symbol section, for creating a custom block, literally looks like something from the 80's. (old MacDraw). I've thought about creating a custom block to represent a sheet to sheet connector, to quickly find out it's very limited, e.g. using the double arrow, and center it on the page boundary.
Again, these are some basic thoughts, but they would greatly enhance diagram creation, especially where you have hundreds of blocks...or even thousands.
