Layers - How To

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The Layers application controls which layers from the HCL application and which layers from the CAD drawing are visible in the view. Layers can be enabled or disabled to focus on the information relevant to the current task.

How to Use the Layers Application?

  1. Open Your Project: Start by opening any project on your tablet.
  2. Open Application: Either from the home screen or from the side menu in CAD view.
    • If you do not have the 'Layers' application in the home screen, select add shortcut and add the application shown below.
  3. Choose the Layer category: The layer category controls which type of information is displayed in the CAD view. On the right side of the screen, select the category that best fits the current task.
    • Hilti layers: Contain added control points and layout points created within the application. This also includes any linework that you created within the HCL application.
    • CAD layers: Contain elements that originate from the imported CAD drawing. You will only be able to turn these on and off, rather than delete or edit. HCL will not allow modifications of the original design you import to reduce potential errors or mistakes.
  4. Manage Layers: Layer management options are available only for Hilti point layers and allow control over how points are organized.
    • Plus icon: Add additional layers for points.
    • Edit button: Modify the selected layer properties.
    • Delete button: Remove the selected layer from the project.
  5. Select Layers to View: Layer visibility determines which information is shown in the current view.
    • Use the eye icon to show or hide individual layers.
    • Hidden layers remain available and can be re‑enabled at any time.

'Layers' application shortcut icon:

Selecting the Layers application from the side menu in CAD view:

CAD view displayed after the Layers application is selected:

Buttons for managing the Hilti layers:

Examples of How Layers Work with Points (Hilti Layers)

Hilti point layers are most effective when used as an organizational and workflow tool. By separating layout points into logical layers, large projects with hundreds of points become easier to manage, review, and stake out in the field. To edit the layers your points will fall on, please see the point edit options.

Example 1: Trade‑Based Layer Organization

Layers can be created based on trade or discipline to clearly separate scope.

  • MEP – Plumbing
  • MEP – Electrical
  • MEP – HVAC
  • Structural / Anchors
  • Architectural Reference Points

This approach allows individual trades to be displayed or hidden as needed, reducing visual clutter and minimizing the risk of laying out incorrect points.

Example 2: Phase‑Based Layout Layers

For projects completed in stages, layers can reflect construction phases.

  • Phase 1 – Underground
  • Phase 2 – Slab Inserts
  • Phase 3 – Overhead Supports
  • Phase 4 – Final Equipment

Only the relevant phase layer is enabled during layout, helping crews focus on current work without distraction from future or completed points.

Example 3: Floor‑ or Zone‑Based Layers

On multi‑level or large‑footprint projects, layers can be organized by location.

  • Level 1 – East Wing
  • Level 1 – West Wing
  • Level 2 – Mechanical Room
  • Roof – Equipment Pads

This makes it easy to isolate layout points for a specific floor or area while working on site.

Example 4: Point Type Separation

Layers can be created based on the type of layout point to support different installation tasks.

  • Hanger Points
  • Sleeve Locations
  • Embed Plates
  • Equipment Centerlines

Separating point types reduces confusion and helps crews quickly identify only the points relevant to the current installation activity.

Examples of How Layers Work with CAD Layers

CAD layers are used exclusively for visibility control and cannot be edited or deleted. They are most effective for isolating reference information.

Example 1: Background Control

  • Turn off architectural finishes or furniture layers to keep the view clean.
  • Enable only structural grids and primary walls during layout.

Example 2: Coordination Views

  • Enable HVAC ductwork CAD layers while checking hanger points.
  • Disable unrelated systems to improve clarity in congested areas.

Example 3: Temporary Reference Checks

  • Enable a CAD layer to verify alignment or spacing.
  • Disable it again once layout confidence is established.

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