Graphics are getting cluttered. Need to organize floorplan overlays so operators can see equipment selectively (show AHUs on one layer, VAVs on another).
Solution
1. Layer Structure
Master Layer: Static background (floorplan image, building outline)
Background Layer: Ductwork, piping, building systems diagram (non-interactive)
Data Overlay Layers: Equipment icons, status indicators, trend lines (interactive, updated in real-time)
Operators can toggle visibility of each layer
2. Create Layers in Graphics Editor
In Metasys MUI Graphics Editor, look for Layers panel (usually bottom-left)
Click Add Layer and name it (e.g., "VAVs", "Dampers", "Sensors")
Drag equipment icons/indicators into the appropriate layer
3. Assign Equipment to Layers
All VAVs go in "VAVs" layer
All thermostats go in "Thermostats" layer
All sensors go in "Sensors" layer
Operators toggle these on/off as needed
4. Create Dynamic Status Overlays
Add a layer called "Alarms" that shows only faulted equipment in red
Add "Mode Indicators" layer showing equipment in heating/cooling mode
These layers update in real-time as equipment status changes
5. Performance Tip
Limit to 5–7 layers per graphic (more layers = slower rendering)
Use selective visibility instead of loading all data at once
Example Multi-Layer Floorplan
Layer 1: Floorplan image (background)
Layer 2: Thermal zoning diagram (light blue)
Layer 3: VAV locations (click to control)
Layer 4: Temperature sensors (read-only)
Layer 5: Active alarms (red glow for faulted equipment)