Functions
All PlexMap data types can be linked with each other in the switchboard. The linking works via functions. Switchboard functions are transformers that process the data.
Functions always have at least one defined input and at least one defined output. The inputs and outputs are typed like the PlexMap data types, which means that only certain data fit to certain switchboard inputs.
You can add functions to a switchboard by clicking the Add Function button (toolbox icon at the bottom right of the switchboard). Alternatively, you can use the shortcut "F". A function list appears, which you can search for the desired function. The German and English names of the functions as well as the function descriptions are searched.
An overview of all functions can be found in our function library.
Example: The "within" function Anchor
The function Within shown is an example of how functions are used in the PlexMap Switchboard.
The function Within allows you to check whether one or more objects are located within one or more other object(s).
For example, one possible use for Within is the task: Which trees in a tree inventory are located within a particular district?
The example function expects two input data of type Feature (recognizable by the feature icon in front of "features" and "other"). As output, users also receive a file of type Feature.
The two required input data are a polygon that represents the area to be searched ("other", e.g. a city district) and the features to be searched ("feature", e.g. tree locations).
By pressing the play button at the bottom left, the function is executed and you get an "output" (result), which you can use in the next function.
Once an "output" has been created, you have access to further actions: Via the small folder icon it is possible to "look inside" the "output". A view opens that shows all data stored in the "output".
Via the eye icon you can show and hide a preview of the calculated data. Via the list icon you can adjust the storage context of the function.
Note: A switchboard function never changes the original data (inputs), but always generates a new data set (output).
