Understanding Linked Properties
In Earth Volumetric Studio, a Linked Property is a parameter whose value is automatically determined within the application, rather than being manually set by the user. This dynamic connection allows for a more intelligent and consistent workflow. You can identify a linked property by the link icon located next to it in the Properties window
- When the link icon is closed/connected, the property is linked, and its value will update automatically based on its source.
- When the link icon is broken, the property is unlinked, and its value is fixed to whatever you have manually set.
You can toggle a property’s linked state by simply clicking on the link icon.
| Linked Property: | Unlinked Property: |
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Not all properties can be linked. If a property does not have a link icon next to it, it is a manual property. Its value may be set directly by the user and will not change automatically.
The Purpose of Linked Properties
Linked properties are a core feature of the EVS expert system, designed to streamline the modeling process. By linking properties, EVS can ensure consistency across your entire application, provide smart defaults based on your data, and maintain visual coherence. For example, linking the Z Scale of multiple modules to the global Application Z Scale means you only have to change it in one place, but can still unlink and override it as needed. Linked properties may also provide good automatic starting values for further unlinked manual refinement.
While you can unlink any linked property to gain manual control, it is generally recommended to keep properties linked unless you have a specific reason and understand the effect of the change. This approach leads to a faster and better-looking result.
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Re-linking a previously unlinked property will cause its value to revert to the automatic, context-driven setting. This change may also trigger the module to re-execute immediately to reflect the new state, unless the module’s Run toggle is turned off.
Common Categories of Linked Properties
Z Scale
This is the most common linked property and the one you should change least often. Nearly every module that deals with 3D data has a Z Scale property that is, by default, linked to the global Z Scale found in the Application Properties. This ensures that all visual components in your scene use the same vertical exaggeration, which is critical for correct spatial representation.
Colors
Many modules that create visual elements, such as titles or legends, have color properties that are linked to the global Application Colors setting. When you switch the application theme between Dark, White, or Custom, these linked colors will automatically adjust to ensure they remain visible and aesthetically pleasing against the new background color. Unlinking a color property, such as Title Color, will fix it to a specific color, and it will no longer adapt to theme changes.
Coordinates
Many modules that process spatial data have coordinate properties (e.g., Min/Max extents) that are linked to the incoming data. When the module is run, it analyzes the input field and automatically populates these properties with the correct coordinate values. If the input data changes, re-running the module will cause these linked properties to update accordingly.
Expert System Parameters
EVS includes an expert system that analyzes your data to provide intelligent, scientifically appropriate default values for complex parameters. This is most common in geostatistical modules like kriging or lithologic modeling. Parameters for kriging and variogram settings are often linked to the expert system, which suggests optimal values based on the input data. Unlinking these properties allows for manual fine-tuning but overrides the data-driven recommendations.