Preview Layers

This organizational tool allows layers in the design to be concealed or displayed according to a stepped animation process.

In the example below, the lifting jack has been imported from a STEP file and layers were created according to objects of a similar shape. The Auto Layer function described above was used to do this.

By using the Preview Layers option, the layers shown below will be viewed in isolation in a series of steps.

The Start-End function determines the layer sequence which will be isolated in the editor.

The Loop function allows this to be repeated on a continual basis.

The Zoom Extents tool zooms the isolated layer to the full extents in the editor during the animation process.

Selecting the range of layers to be isolated in the editor

[](https://www.tricad.co.za/2020-1/SharkCAD/Content/Resources/Drawings/P-Preview Layers.sfx)

Worked Example

[Download and open the sample drawing here.](https://www.tricad.co.za/2020-1/SharkCAD/Content/Resources/Drawings/P-Preview Layers.sfx “Internet Connection Required”)

This drawing is an assembly of parts created from separate components. All components are the same color.

Select PowerPack | Utilities | Preview Layers then select the range of layers to be previewed, starting with the main layer STEP:Model

Select Loop and Zoom Extents, then select Play.