Connection
A connection is what a relation looks like when rendered on a map.
Connection is not a separate entity. It is the visual representation of a relation — the line or arrow drawn between two elements on the map canvas.
When to use each term
| Context | Use |
|---|---|
| Talking about the map, visuals, layout | Connection |
| Talking about the data model, codebase, properties | Relation |
Same underlying object. Two names for two contexts.
What connections look like
A connection runs between the two elements the relation links. Visual properties (line style, arrowhead, curve) are configurable. These are presentation properties, not data.
The connection’s label, if shown, reflects properties on the underlying relation.
What connections are not
A connection is not a wikilink. A wikilink is an inline reference in rich text that can cause the map to pan and zoom to an entity. A connection is a drawn line on the map that represents a structural relation. See Wikilink.
Vocabulary note
“Connection” replaces “edge” in map/visual contexts. “Edge” is retired. In data model contexts, use “Relation.”