Custom Symbol Library in Metasys

Creating and managing custom symbol libraries in Metasys allows you to develop consistent, branded graphics that match your organization's standards.

Understanding Symbol Libraries

What Are Symbols?

Symbols are reusable graphic elements that represent:

• Equipment (AHUs, VAVs, chillers, etc.)
• Components (valves, dampers, sensors)
• Indicators (status, alarms, modes)
• Navigation elements (buttons, links)

Library Hierarchy

Creating Custom Symbols

Design Tools

Symbols are created using:

• Graphics Editor in MUI
• External SVG editors (Inkscape, Adobe Illustrator)
• Imported images (PNG, JPG for backgrounds)

Symbol Components

Component	Purpose
Static shapes	Equipment outline, background
Dynamic elements	Values, status indicators
Binding points	Connection to live data
Animation triggers	State-based appearance changes

Symbol States

Define how symbols appear in different states:

State	Visual Change
Normal	Green/standard colors
Alarm	Red/flashing
Warning	Yellow/amber
Off/Disabled	Gray
Override	Blue indicator
Fault	Red with icon

Building a Symbol Library

Step 1: Plan Your Standards

Before creating symbols:

1. Define color scheme (normal, alarm, warning)
2. Establish size standards (small, medium, large)
3. Choose consistent icon style
4. Document naming conventions

Step 2: Create Base Symbols

Start with frequently used equipment:

1. AHU symbol with key components
2. VAV box (cooling, heating, dual-duct)
3. Pump (on/off, VFD)
4. Valve (2-way, 3-way)
5. Temperature/humidity sensors

Step 3: Add Dynamic Elements

For each symbol, add:

• Point value displays
• Status indicators
• Command buttons
• Alarm indicators
• Mode displays

Step 4: Test Bindings

Verify dynamic elements work:

1. Apply symbol to test graphic
2. Bind to sample equipment
3. Verify all states display correctly
4. Test commands if applicable

Step 5: Organize Library

Structure your library logically:

Using Custom Symbols

In Graphics Editor

1. Open graphic for editing
2. Access symbol palette
3. Select your custom library
4. Drag symbol onto canvas
5. Bind to equipment points

Binding Points

When placing symbols:

1. Select the symbol
2. Open binding properties
3. Map each dynamic element to a point
4. Configure display format
5. Save graphic

Best Practices

Design Consistency

Element	Recommendation
Colors	Use consistent palette across all symbols
Sizes	Standard dimensions for symbol categories
Fonts	Single font family for all text
Icons	Consistent iconography

Performance

• Keep symbol complexity reasonable
• Limit animation elements
• Optimize SVG file sizes
• Test on target devices (tablets, phones)

Maintainability

• Document symbol specifications
• Version control your library
• Create symbol usage guide
• Train graphics developers

Importing External Graphics

SVG Import

1. Design symbol in Inkscape/Illustrator
2. Export as SVG
3. Import to Metasys graphics library
4. Add dynamic bindings in Metasys
5. Test functionality

Image Requirements

Format	Best For
SVG	Scalable symbols, equipment
PNG	Photos, complex images
JPG	Background images, photos

Troubleshooting

Symbol Not Displaying

1. Check library path is accessible
2. Verify symbol file isn't corrupted
3. Clear browser cache
4. Check user permissions

Dynamic Elements Not Updating

1. Verify point bindings are correct
2. Check equipment communication
3. Confirm point names match exactly
4. Test with known-good symbol