Nodes Overview
TLDR: Nodes are the building blocks of your simulation. Connect them with edges to model how entities (customers, products, patients) flow through your process.
Simply Solver provides 11 node types, each serving a specific purpose in modeling processes. Drag nodes onto the canvas, configure their properties, and connect them to create your simulation.
Flow Nodes
These nodes control how entities enter, move through, and exit your simulation.
| Node | Description | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Entry | Generates entities that flow into your simulation. Configure arrival rates, distributions, and entity types. | Details → |
| Processor | Service station where work happens. Configure capacity, service times, queue rules, and staffing. | Details → |
| Exit | Endpoint where entities leave the simulation. Mark as completed or waste/defect for analytics. | Details → |
Routing Nodes
These nodes split, merge, and route entities through your process.
| Node | Description | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Separator | Splits one entity into multiple copies or routes entities to different paths based on probability. | Details → |
| Combiner | Assembles multiple entities into one. Use for kitting, assembly, or merging parallel paths. | Details → |
| Batcher | Groups entities into batches before releasing them. Configure batch size and timeout rules. | Details → |
Logic Nodes
These nodes modify entities and add custom behavior.
| Node | Description | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Assign | Modifies entity attributes based on rules and conditions. Transform types, set priorities. | Details → |
| Resource | Shared resource pool (workers, machines) that can serve multiple processors. | Details → |
| Custom | Advanced Python-based custom logic for complex behaviors not covered by other nodes. | Details → |
Annotation Nodes
These nodes add documentation and visuals to your canvas without affecting simulation logic.
| Node | Description | Learn More |
|---|---|---|
| Text | Add notes, labels, and documentation to your canvas. Does not affect simulation. | Details → |
| Image | Add background images like floor plans or diagrams. Use "Send to Back" for layouts. | Details → |
Connecting Nodes
To connect nodes:
- Hover over a node to see its connection handles (small circles on the edges)
- Click and drag from an output handle to an input handle on another node
- Release to create the connection
Most nodes can have multiple incoming and outgoing connections. The routing logic depends on the node type and edge configuration.
Common Patterns
Basic Flow
Entry → Processor → Exit
The simplest simulation: entities arrive, get processed, and leave.
Parallel Paths
Entry → Separator → [Processor A, Processor B] → Exit
Split flow to route different entity types to specialized processors.
Assembly
[Entry A, Entry B] → Combiner → Processor → Exit
Wait for multiple parts before assembly.
Shared Resources
Resource → [Processor A, Processor B]
Pool of workers that serve multiple stations.