Using the Simulation Studio GUI to build a simulation model is straightforward. It consists of dragging icons from the Template Palette window into a Model window and then creating links between the appropriate ports on the various blocks in the model. (Of course, the hard part is actually determining the appropriate composition of the model.)
To create an instance of a specific block in a Model window, you drag the appropriate icon or text in the Template Palette window into the Model window to the location where you want the block to be created. During the drag, a transparent icon is attached to the pointer. (You can always drag the new block instance around in the Model window to move it to another position.) You can modify the properties on any block in your model by using the properties dialog box associated with each block. You can open this dialog by right-clicking the block and selecting the Block Properties menu item. Double-clicking the block icon also causes the properties dialog box to open.
After you have some blocks in your Model window, you can begin to create links between the ports on the various blocks to enable the flow of values and entities between blocks. To create a link, position the pointer over a port you want to be an endpoint of the link and hold down the left mouse button. (Note that the port size enlarges when the pointer is over it, indicating port selection.) A rubberband line appears connecting the selected port with the pointer. While holding down the left mouse button, move the pointer until it is positioned over the port you want to connect to and then release the left mouse button. If the types associated with the two selected ports are compatible, a link is created between them.