PathBuilder

Connects sequential line and/or arc features to create path geometry, preserving input segments.  

Jump to Configuration

Typical Uses

  • Combining geometry when input features are arcs

  • Combining geometry while preserving the input segments

How does it work?

The PathBuilder receives features with line or arc geometry and connects them in the order received.

Gaps between input features are connected as follows:

  • Line to line or arc: the first line is extended to to start point of the next feature.

  • Arc to line: the line is extended from its start point to the end point of the arc.

  • Arc to arc: a two-point line connects the end of the first arc to the start of the second arc.

Z coordinates are supported. Features with matching x and y coordinates but differing z values at their connection points are handled according to the Connect Z Mode parameter.

Attributes may be collected as List attributes.

Note that path geometry is not supported in all output formats. See also: Line , Arc, and Path geometry.

Examples

Usage Notes

  • The Sorter may be useful for ordering features before using the PathBuilder.
  • It is possible to create self-intersecting paths with this transformer, which will not be rejected.
  • As the PathBuilder fills in gaps between features, it can produce unexpected results if the input features are not sorted correctly. To combine adjoining lines (without creating new geometry to connect gaps), use a LineCombiner (and ArcStroker, if arcs are present).

  • The PathSplitter will undo PathBuilder output.

Creating and Modifying Linear Features

These transformers work with lines in a variety of ways.

Configuration

Input Ports

Output Ports

Parameters

Editing Transformer Parameters

Using a set of menu options, transformer parameters can be assigned by referencing other elements in the workspace. More advanced functions, such as an advanced editor and an arithmetic editor, are also available in some transformers. To access a menu of these options, click beside the applicable parameter. For more information, see Transformer Parameter Menu Options.

Defining Values

There are several ways to define a value for use in a Transformer. The simplest is to simply type in a value or string, which can include functions of various types such as attribute references, math and string functions, and workspace parameters. There are a number of tools and shortcuts that can assist in constructing values, generally available from the drop-down context menu adjacent to the value field.

Dialog Options - Tables

Transformers with table-style parameters have additional tools for populating and manipulating values.

Reference

Processing Behavior

Group-Based

Feature Holding

Yes

Dependencies None
Aliases  
History  

FME Community

The FME Community is the place for demos, how-tos, articles, FAQs, and more. Get answers to your questions, learn from other users, and suggest, vote, and comment on new features.

Search for all results about the PathBuilder on the FME Community.

 

Examples may contain information licensed under the Open Government Licence – Vancouver and/or the Open Government Licence – Canada.