Diagram Widget Types
Legacy Diagrams
Pre-built diagrams for common engineering visualizations including cross-sections, free-body diagrams, load diagrams, and XY plots
Interactive Diagrams
Custom interactive diagrams with dynamic elements, custom shapes, and real-time data binding
When to Use Each Type
Legacy Diagrams
Use legacy diagrams when you need:- Standard engineering visualizations (cross-sections, free-body diagrams)
- Quick implementation with pre-built templates
- Consistent styling across all ClearCalcs templates
- Proven reliability with battle-tested functionality
Interactive Diagrams
Use interactive diagrams when you need:- Custom visualizations specific to your calculation
- Dynamic elements that update with calculation results
- Interactive features like tooltips and clickable elements
- Complex layouts with multiple diagram components
Implementation
Both diagram types are implemented as widget types in the ClearCalcs builder:- Drag “Diagram” from the widget palette for legacy diagrams
- Drag “Custom Diagram” from the widget palette for interactive diagrams
Key Features
Common Capabilities
- Real-time updates when calculation inputs change
- Unit awareness with automatic unit conversion and display
- Conditional display based on template logic
- Export support for PDF generation and load linking
Legacy Diagram Features
- Pre-built templates for common engineering use cases
- Standardized styling consistent across the platform
- Simple configuration with minimal setup required
Interactive Diagram Features
- Custom elements with full design control
- Dynamic data binding to calculation results
- Interactive components like tooltips and navigation
- Flexible layouts with custom positioning
Best Practices
- Choose legacy diagrams for standard engineering visualizations
- Use interactive diagrams for custom or complex visualizations
- Consider user experience and clarity when designing diagrams
- Test diagram updates with various calculation scenarios
- Ensure diagrams are accessible and well-documented
Both diagram types are fully supported and maintained. Legacy diagrams provide reliability and consistency, while interactive diagrams offer flexibility and customization.