How Can I Create Connected Custom Controls in Windows Forms with Drag-and-Drop Functionality and Switchable Views?

Use connecting lines to connect custom controls in Windows Forms

Introduction:

Developing custom user interfaces (UI) is a fundamental aspect of software engineering. Creating dynamic and interactive interfaces enhances user experience and functionality. In this article, we'll delve into a specific aspect of UI development: using Windows Forms to create custom buttons/controls that can be connected with wires.

Problem Statement:

The goal is to create custom buttons or user controls that can be dragged and dropped and connected to each other using lines. These controls should serve as graphical elements for creating diagrams or configurations. Additionally, there should be a toggle option to switch between a detailed view and a simplified view showing the control options.

Solution using Windows Forms (WPF):

Although Windows Forms lacks the built-in functionality for drawing connection lines, we can use Windows Presentation Foundation (WPF) to achieve this functionality. WPF provides advanced capabilities for creating custom UIs and provides a flexible way to bind data and graphics.

In the proposed solution, the listbox is used as a container for control nodes and connecting lines. Nodes are designed using Thumb controls to handle drag and drop operations. Connectors use QuadraticBezierSegment to draw curves between nodes.

To improve interactivity, SnapSpots are introduced as red semicircles around nodes. Connectors connect to these points, ensuring correct snapping behavior. Checkboxes allow switching between detailed and simplified views.

Additional features:

• Ability to edit control values ​​in the left panel
• Decoupling of UI functions and data storage
• Customization of click order for UI node and connector operations

Advantages of WPF:

In terms of UI development capabilities, WPF is superior to Windows Forms. Its advantages are:

• Rich data binding options
• Enhanced graphics and animation support
• Flexible, customizable layout
• Modern UI elements and styles

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