Orson

Node Graph

implementedfirst draft
Harris Matrix example
Archaeological stratigraphy

The Node Graph context allows for the creation of sophisticated node-edge graphs. Orson cards can be linked to each node or group of nodes, to allow for detailed documentation of each graph element. This context was designed to support the creation of Harris Matrixopen in new window graphs for archaeological representations of stratigraphy. However it is full-featured enough to be useful for a broad range of representations.

How to use

  • You can create new nodes and connections between them (edges) using the toolbar options on the left of the canvas.
  • Once cards have been added to the Node Graph context, they can be linked to nodes using options in the context's Cards sidebar. Clicking on a linked node displays the content of the relevant card in the sidebar.
  • The Summary sidebar allows for a description of the overall graph, and/or the inclusion of a reference image.
  • The Sections sidebar allows for the creation of horizontal dividers, for the representation of chronological phases, for example.
  • Nodes can be added to groups (compound nodes). Shift-drag to select the nodes you want to group, right-click and select 'Add to group node'.
  • Right-click on nodes and edges reveals options for setting labels, custom node and edge shapes and more.

Controls

Click on the Node Graph context's pencil icon to access its controls.

  • Toggle snap to grid. Enabling this makes nodes align with the grid on the canvas when dragged.
  • Toggle view grid.
  • Toggle between horizontal and vertical layout.

Actions

In addition to the generic context actions, there are options unique to this context:

  • Reset node names. This assigns the IDs of the nodes to the node labels.
  • Add new nodes for all unlinked context cards. This is useful when you have existing content in Orson Cards which you would like to represent as nodes on a graph.
  • Unlink all cards linked to nodes. This removes any links created between nodes and Orson Cards.
  • Delete all nodes and edges. Note that there is a delete mode control in the toolbar for deletion of individual graph elements.

Notes

  • Use shift-drag or shift click to quickly select multiple graph items.
  • To delete a compound node without deleting its contents, select the items inside it, then right-click and select 'Remove from group'. The compound node will then be isolated and available for deletion.
  • Undo options only apply to the movement of nodes and edges in this release. More comprehensive undo options will follow in a future update.

See also: Add existing cards to a context