Simple, realistic pipe layout

Hi,

I have a couple of simple questions about how to layout pipes, particularly when they have two or more connection as input, or two or more connections as output. In addition, I would like to understand how to set these layouts in code.

I have attached a very simple pipe layout scenario, where I have two fluid generators connecting to a single processor. The single processor then connects to two processors, which each connect to a fluid terminator.

I have attached a screen shot layout and a Flexsim file, where the fixed resources are in symmetrical grid positions as shown in the table below.
Object (x, y)
Gen1 (-20, 10)
Gen2 (-20, -10)
Processor1 (0, 0)
Processor2 (20, 10)
Processor3 (20, -10)
Terminator1 (40, 10)
Terminator2 (40, -10)

My simple questions are:
Q1: If I connect Gen1 & Gen2 to a single pipe, which is then connected to Processor 1 (i.e. two inputs, one output), how can I setup the layout tab so the pipe starts at both generators and ends up at the processor? Do I instead need to use three pipes, where one pipe connects Gen1 to the central pipe, and another connects Gen2 to the central pipe, and the central pipe connects to Processor 1?
Q2: How do I achieve the reverse layout (i.e. one input going to two outputs) between Processor 1, 2 & 3?
Q3: How do I achieve this result in code (Flexscript)? Is it just simple trigonometry?
Q4: Since the objects in Flexsim are all located by their top left corners, the pipes connect at the edges of the object, which may look funny. Should I instead correct the positions of the objects for their individual dimensions, so that each element lines up centrally, and the pipes connect to the centres of each object?
Q5: In order to get the graphics right, should the pipes project slightly inside the solid shape of each fixed resource?

I attach a graphic of the simple layout as well as the flexsim file for it.

Please help with my simple layout questions.

Thanks

Hi,

I have solved my own problem and have posted a full description of how to achieve automated, realistic pipe layout in the Tips and Tricks section.

I hope this link below is persistant, if not you will have to use the menu to get there.

http://www.flexsim.com/community/for...1436#post11436

Thanks

Brett