====== Generation Editor ======

The Generation Editor is where models are constructed at the highest conceptual level. 

This editor displays the complete hierarchy of a model and lets you [[manage-generators|add and manage generators]] and make other large-scale changes. It also displays helpful overlays and warnings.

To learn about the different types of generators, see [[kcgenerators|Generators]]. 

{{:reference-generation-editor.png|}}

A: The [[generation-editor-toolbar-reference|Generation Editor toolbar]] contains options to edit the model on a broad scale and change the layout and information displayed in the hierarchy.\\ 
B: The hierarchy displays a hierarchical representation of every generator in the model and its parent/child relationships. Select a generator to work on it or drag and drop generator icons to change how they’re linked. \\

=====  Generator hierarchy =====

Generators represent the branches, trunk, roots, fronds, leaves, and every other component of a model. The structure of a model is defined by how the generators are linked. 
Generators are linked together in a hierarchy that represents the anatomical structure of the model. Each generator can have one parent and multiple children. The following image shows a notional model and the generator hierarchy used to make it.

{{:approach_procedural.jpg|}}

===== Icon overlays =====

Generators and links will frequently have context-sensitive hint icons applied to them. Consult the image below and the following list for a description of what the icons mean.

{{::icon-overlays-annotated.png?800|}}

A: The message icon indicates that at least one error, warning, or note is available for this generator. View messages by selecting the generator and opening the message pane on the [[property_bar|Property Bar]].\\
B: The selection tag indicates that a scene object that concerns the generator is selected (usually a force that is used on the generator or a node created by the generator).\\
C: The hand drawing icon indicates that the generator is hand drawn.\\
D: The node count relays the number of nodes made by the link. In this example, there are 555 frond nodes.\\
E: Hidden generators are slightly grayed out.\\
F: The blue highlight indicates generators are under [[toolshapecontrol|shape control]].\\
G: The inactive icon indicates the generator is inactive or not visible in the current resolution. Change the active settings in [[generation_properties#active|Generation:Shared:Active]].