> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.dietrichs.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.dietrichs.com/dietrichs-intelligent-documentation/docs-de-en/composite-elements/create-edit-composite-elements/connections.md).

# Connections

Element connections: components are joined to one another via machining operations using connection logic.

* First, the setting for a connection joint is selected. Possible types are:
  * T-shaped connections: end plates, tenon, dovetail tenon, offset, end offset with tenon, cut, T-joint end plate, profile connection, fork plate, ornamental collar, T-connection, closed end plate, dovetail end plate
  * Corner connections: end plate
  * Crossings: scarf joint, dovetail scarf joint, ornamental collar scarf joint, drilled crossing, connection crossing, free markings
  * Longitudinal joints: longitudinal joint, Gerber joint, hook plate, tenon longitudinal joint, dovetail longitudinal joint.
* The execution of the connection may be subject to the usual conditions.
* This is followed by the list with the pairs of member 1 and member 2 of the connection. Here, components of the combined element and query bodies can be selected.
* With these connections, it can be specified exactly which component is to be connected. This avoids other components being found at random for the connection.
* For member 2, the options *search from the beginning* and *search from the end* can also be used. In this case, the partner component is not specified; instead, it is searched for after the combined element has been created. The search can start from the beginning or the end of the component. In principle, only extension is performed.
* If the type of connections is subject to conditions, the affected components previously had to be created separately for each condition. Now the components are created only once, and only the connection must be defined for each condition.

> In the connections, the joint type "moment hinge" has been added for structural analysis. It can be used in the T-joint and crossing situations.
>
> A miter cut can now also be used as a connection. This new function permits various typical corner configurations of members, but also trims plates together accordingly.