Drop multiple item instances in a single QuickDrop action

[Petru_Tarabuta]

It would be useful if QuickDrop supported a way of dropping multiple instances of the same item in one go. It is sometimes desirable to do so. For example, we may want to drop three numeric constants in one go.

The QuickDrop action above would result in three numeric constants being dropped, as seen below.

Selecting an error wire, then executing the sequence: Ctrl+Space >> typing "rn" >> increasing the Number of Items to x3 >> Ctrl+I would result in three property nodes being inserted into the error wire, as seen below.

Notes

• It would be great if the multiplier could be typed as part of the QuickDrop search string. For example, typing "rn x3" or "x3 rn" would then drop or insert three property nodes. This would mean that the whole action can be done from the keyboard, which would be quicker. However, it seems difficult to implement due to the search string needing to be intelligently split into two parts.
• Perhaps a much easier implementation that would be almost as quick would be to type "rn" >> press Tab (this would tab to the "Number of Instances" control) >> type "3".

Thanks

[fefepeto_kb]

This seems a little complicated for me. I might want three of the same object, but how shall they be placed? Would this be restricted for placing inside one structure only if clicked over a structure?

I love shortcuts in general, but for me precision is also a key factor in efficiency. And I find Ctrl+Drag&Drop do both for me. T be clear, my sequence of operation is Ctls+Space, quick drop shortcut, click on the exact place of the first item, Ctrl+Drag, Drop on the exact place of the second item, Ctrl+drag, drop at the exact place of the third item and so on until I created all the needed instances.

The other scenario that comes to my mind is property nodes and bundle/unbundle nodes. In this case I use the Ctrl+Shift+D for constants and Ctrl+D for controls and indicators. Then mostly use the built in alignment tools.

I understand that this is a question of preference, but I like the existing option.

After all I think the best way would be to move the QuickDrop to an open source model as well. It would help tremendously to crowd source the development effort.

On the other hand, inserting more than one element can be achieved by modifying the built in plug-in. Having this implemented in the shipping version wouldn't really bother me. It would be there, but I would not use it. Also I think it wouldn't have a noticeable performance impact.