Layout Planner User Guide
Welcome!
The Layout Planner User Guide is updated on a regular basis and includes everything you need to know from installation to saving your layout. You may view the entire user guide at once by clicking printer-friendly version at the bottom of this page. Please note the screenshots may vary in appearance (based on computer platform) but the functionality is the same.
Please refer to the following sections to get started.
Introduction
The Layout Planner software allows you to design a custom stone layout using the exact measurements and material you need to finish the job.
Using a drawing grid, the outline and cut-outs are drawn to scale using your mouse. Select the type and size of the stones you wish to install and within seconds a complete layout is designed.
Designs can be saved for printing or imported into architectural design software such as AutoCAD. The final report includes an "install by numbers" illustration as well as a complete Bill of Materials including product numbers, quantities, and weight.
For complete customization, product catalogs can be modified, imported, and exported. Report header, footer, and message area can be customized for unique branding.
There are two versions of Layout Planner: Pro and DIY. All of the features described in this guide are included with Layout Planner Pro. Certain features are not included with Layout Planner DIY and are noted as such throughout this user guide.
Features
Layout Planner was designed to rapidly decrease and simplify the work required to create and install paving stone. The final layout is represented with an "install by numbers†diagram including a complete Bill of Materials with product numbers, quantity, and weight.
General
Support for pre-cut stone products
Use natural or reproduction pre-cut stone pavers.
Support for brick patterns
Allows use of bricks and repeating patterns such as bonds and weaves.
Cross-platform compatibility
Written in Java, it provides unlimited compatibility with all current and future computer platforms including Windows, Macintosh, Linux, and UNIX.
Wizard mode
Step-by-step instructions providing new users with a guided experience. This feature can be turned off for experienced users.
Built-in help
For fast and easy reference.
Smart Update
The software will notify you of available product updates (Internet connection is required).
Drawing
Grid rulers and crosshairs
Layouts can be drawn to exact scale using one-foot grid segments with crosshairs for accuracy.
Zoom and pan
Zoom and pan the layout using simple mouse controls.
User-defined region
Draw any polygonal shape onto the design grid. There is no limit to the number of line segments.
Fixed dimension by length and width
If your layout is simple just enter a length and width instead of drawing a complex polygon.
Unlimited undo
Line segments can be removed from most recent to oldest.
User-defined cut-outs
Unlimited cut-outs may be placed anywhere in the layout to accommodate landscaping, ornaments, gardens, swimming pools, etc.
Smart Expansion
Eliminate cutting and waste with Smart Expansion. When used, this option expands the generated layout to an even dimension based on the product sizes used in the design. For example, if stones have sizes in 15 inches increments and the layout is an increment of 12 inches (one foot), Smart Expansion allows that dimension of the layout to expand to the nearest increment of 15 instead of 12.
Filling the Layout
Smart Layout
Paving stone layouts are randomly generated to ensure a pleasing and unique arrangement of stones with even distribution of product. No gaps and fewer than 3-4 consecutive edges. Most layouts are generated in less than 30 seconds.
Patterned layout
Use repeating patterns such as bonds and weaves for brick layouts.
User-selectable sizes
Any or all sizes of stone product can be used in the layout.
Reports
Layouts can be saved to Adobe Acrobat (PDF) format* and include a diagram of the layout, dimensions of every segment and side, installation guide using placement markers, and Bill of Materials including product item numbers, quantities, square footage, and weight.
* Adobe Acrobat is not required to create reports, although Acrobat Reader (or compatible software) may be required to view and print the report from your comptuer.
Export to AutoCAD (DXF)
Layouts can saved to DXF (Data eXchange Format) files for use with compatible CAD software such AutoCAD. Blueprints will show true visualization of the layout instead of generic representations.
Feature applies to Pro version only.
Product Catalog Editor
The built-in catalog editor allows the use of unlimited* stone and brick products from multiple vendors including:
- Vendor name
- Product set
- Product number
- Product description
- Size (length x width)
- Weight
- Color
- Price
*DIY version is limited to one product set with 15 items.
Import and Export Product Catalogs
There is no need to manually update multiple copies of Layout Planner. Using the Import/Export feature you can copy and merge product catalogs between computers. The catalog is stored with the application so there is no chance of losing it.
Feature applies to Pro version only.
Additional Customization
Report headers, footers, and message areas can be customized for your business including company name, contact information, etc.
Feature applies to Pro version only.
System Requirements
Layout Planner is compatible with Microsoft Windows (with Macintosh and Linux versions available at a later date).
An Internet connection is required for first-time installation and future upgrades, however a high-speed connection is not necessary.
What makes Layout Planner compatible with so many computer systems is the Java operating system from Sun Microsystems. Layout Planner will automatically install Java on your computer if you don't have it. The following section describes Java in more detail or you may skip to the next section.
Java Installation Details
Layout Planner is a Java application and can be used on any computing platform supported by Sun Microsystems’ Java operating system. The installation procedure for Layout Planner will automatically install (or upgrade) Java on your computer if necessary. If you prefer to install Java yourself:
- Click here to verify if Java is already installed and working properly
- Click here to manually download and install Java to your computer
If you have difficulty installing Java please refer to our Java FAQ. You may need to contact Sun Microsystems or the manufacturer of your computer for additinoal help.
Windows Information
Microsoft Windows requires the installation of Java although some computers may have it pre-installed. Take a moment to ensure your version of Windows meets the necessary system requirements. The following versions of Windows are compatible with the latest version of Java:
- Windows 2000 Professional (SP3+)
- Windows XP Home and Professional (SP1+)
- Windows Vista
- Windows Server 2003
Installing, Upgrading, and Opening
Installation
You must have Java successfully installed on your computer before attempting to run Layout Planner. Once Java is installed refer to these additional installation instructions applicable to your operating system.
Windows
Java must be installed on your computer before you can successfully open Layout Planner. Refer to the System Requirements page for more information.
Unzip the file you downloaded which creates a SETUP.EXE file. Run SETUP.EXE as an Administrator to install Layout Planner. If your version of Java is out of date it will be replaced with a newer version. The software is installed into the Program Files/Layout Planner folder and a Start menu item is created.
To uninstall, use Add/Remove Programs in Control Panel or the Uninstall Layout Planner option in the Start menu.
Upgrading (All Versions)
Layout Planner does not support in-place upgrades which means your customized data will be deleted when a new version is installed. Users of Layout Planner DIY will need to re-enter their product catalog.
Layout Planner Pro users should follow these steps to maintain product catalogs and other preferences.
Step One
Save a copy of your customized product catalog. To do so, open Layout Planner and choose Customize | Catalog Export... Enter a name for the export file (such as catalog.txt) and click Save or OK. Make note of your Report Preferences and Branding Preferences because they are not exported and will need to be re-entered manually.
Step Two
To install the new version, follow the instructions found in Installation. Have your original license key available because Layout Planner will ask for it and re-activate using the Internet.
Step Three
To import the product catalog, choose Customize | Catalog Import..., and navigate to the exported file (ex: catalog.txt) and click Open or OK. Update your Report and Branding Preferences as needed.
First Time Use
Start Layout Planner. You may be prompted to approve a Security Certificate. Select "Start" to allow saving of layouts and exporting to AutoCAD, otherwise Layout Planner may not work correctly.
Windows users may see a warning message from their firewall software. It is recommended to check "For this program, don't show this message again" and clickOK.
The first time Layout Planner runs it will communicate over the Internet and activate its software license. At this prompt you must select Activate Now or quit the application. Once activated you will not be required to do so again unless you reinstall or upgrade your license.
Subsequent Use
Each time Layout Planner is started it will check the Internet for available software updates.
Using Layout Planner
The following sections describe Layout Planner's design grid. Learn how to select a stone product, draw the installation area including cut-outs, create a unique layout, and save the design for later use or export to AutoCAD.
Wizard Mode
Layout Planner starts in Wizard Mode and presents a Welcome window to walk you through the steps required to produce a layout. Use of the Wizard is optional.
It is controlled using these buttons:
Start the Wizard from the beginning.
Go back to the previous step.
Go to the next step.
Turn off the Wizard; it can be resumed by clicking Resume Wizard in the main window.
Close the Wizard when all steps are complete.
Draw or Specify the Area
Drawing Modes
Layout Planner includes drawing modes suited to your project type such as driveways, patios, pools, etc. Fixed width shapes such as rectangles and squares can be created quickly by entering length and width or complex shapes can be drawn freehand using a mouse.
Desiging a layout for certain types of areas, such as swimming pools, requires the use of cut-outs. Cut-outs are used to exclude stone from the layout area, saving material and shipping costs.
Specify the Area
This option will create a rectangular shape based on an exact length and width.
- Click Specify under Dimensions
- Enter the Height in feet and inches
- Enter the Length in feet and inches
- Click OK to use these values or Cancel
Draw the Area
This option allows free-form creation of any polygon shape.
- Click Draw Using Grid under Dimensions
- Click Region under Drawing Controls
- Determine your starting point and click it on the grid (it becomes a small circle)
- Click another point on the grid to create a line segment
- Click other points to create more segments
- Click the starting point circle to finish drawing the shape
Cut-outs
To create any number of cut-outs in your shape:
- Click Cut-out under Drawing Controls
- Draw the cut-out using the same process as above
Making Changes
- Click Undo Line under Drawing Controls to erase the latest line (repeat as needed)
- Click Clear Grid under Drawing Controls to erase the entire drawing
Select the Brand, Style, Color
Choose the vendor, style, and color of the product you wish to use. You can only choose the style and color based on its availability in the product line. Only one style and one color can be used in a layout.
- Select the vendor
- Select the style
- Select the color within the style you selected
Product sizes and color may change based on the style selected. The next page will explain how to select sizes to use in your layout.
Select the Sizes
Layouts may contain some or all sizes of your selected product style. Available sizes are displayed in a horizontal list of colored icons with accompanying dimensions. By default, every size is selected for your layout because the best layouts are generated when all sizes are used1.
- All sizes are selected by default
- To manually select sizes, click each icon under Available Sizes to be used in your layout or Use All
- Click the icon under Selected Sizes to remove it from being used in your layout or Remove All
Notes
1 An equal distribution of sizes will be used whenever possible.
Generate the Layout
Now that the layout has been drawn on the grid and the product style has been selected, the layout is ready to be generated. To create the final, filled, layout:
- Click Create Layout under Layout Controls
The layout will be created in a matter of seconds. If you are dissatisfied with the results click Create Layout to generate another layout. There is no way to revert to a previous layout, therefore you should save the current layout before generating a new one.
To erase the entire layout (including the grid, product style, colors, etc.) and start over with a clean canvas:
- Click Clear Layout under Layout Controls
Save you work because this action cannot be undone.
Save or Export the Layout
Layouts are saved in one or two formats. The first is a report format which includes an illustration of the filled layout ("install by numbers") and a complete Bill of Materials with product code, size, and weight.
The second format is used by architects to manipulate the actual layout, stone-by-stone, within architectural design software (i.e.: blueprints).
Layouts cannot be reloaded into Layout Planner at a later date therefore they must be saved before you clear the layout or exit the program. There are two options to save a layout:
- To create a PDF Report: under Layout Controls click Save Layout PDF...; select the folder location and filename to save
- To create an AutoCAD DXF: under Layout Controls click Export to DXF...; select the folder location and filename to save
Adobe Acrobat Information
The Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF) report is used for printing and viewing on your computer, including with project proposals, budget and planning, etc. Adobe Acrobat is not required to create the PDF report however you may need to install Acrobat Reader on your computer to view and print it.
NOTE: the PDF report cannot be saved once you have cleared the layout or exited the program.
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Download a sample report |
AutoCAD DXF Information
The AutoCAD Drawing eXchange Format (DXF) file should be saved if you intend to use your exact layout in architectural or other design software which supports the DXF format. No special software is required on your computer to create the DXF file.
NOTE: the DXF file cannot be saved once you have cleared the layout or exited the program.
Feature applies to Pro version only.
 |
Download a sample DXF file |
Customizing Layout Planner
Layout Planner provides a number of customization features intended to promote your company's identity and preferred products. Product catalogs may include any number of vendors and items and report headers and footers can be changed as well as certain software settings.
These features are explained in the following sections along with illustrative screenshots. Please note the screenshots may vary in appearance (based on computer platform) but the functionality is the same.
Catalog Editor
The Catalog Editor is used to create detailed product catalogs from any number of manufacturers or suppliers. The catalog is organized in a tree-like fashion with the ability to add new folders and items, expand and collapse folders, and delete folders or items.
For Pro users, an unlimited number of products can be added and grouped into folders by vendor, sets, and items.
Layout Planner DIY allows one product set with 15 items.
Accessing the Catalog Editor
Using the window menu, select Customize | Catalog Edit....
Organizing the Catalog
The product catalog is displayed in two columns with the left side containing a tree-like hierarchy and the right side containing details about the selected item. Each collection of items is represented by a folder icon and can be expanded and collapsed for easier viewing.
The hierarchy follows this model:
- Product Catalog
- Vendor ABC
- Product Set #1
- Color #1
- Item #1
- Item #2
- ...
- Color #2
- Item #1
- Item #2
- ...
- Product Set #2
- ...
- Supplier XYZ
- ...
The bottom of the catalog window includes a number of buttons used to perform certain functions:
- NEW: Add new Vendors, Sets, and Items
- DELETE: Remove Vendors, Sets, and Items
- EXPAND ALL: Show the contents of all Vendor and Set folders
- COLLAPSE ALL: Hide the contents of all Vendor and Set folders
- CANCEL: Discard all additions, deletions, and changes
- DONE: Save all additions, deletions, and changes
Adding to the Catalog
To add a new Vendor, Set, or Item, select a location in the catalog's hierarchy and click the New icon.
- To create a new vendor: select Product Catalog and click New
- To create a new product set: select a Vendor and click New
- To create a new color: select a Product Set and click New
- To create a new item: select a Color and click New
Click Done when all items have been added to the catalog; clicking Cancel will discard the newly entered items.
New Vendor
Select Product Catalog, click New, and enter the name of the vendor including other details such as business address and web site.
Click Done when all items have been added to the catalog; clicking Cancel will discard the newly entered items. Repeat to add more vendors.
New Product Set
Select a Vendor and click New. Enter or select the required information for each field:
- Name: product name used on reports
- Description: for reference only - not used on reports
- Layout Type: determines how the items are arranged in the layout - see below for more information
Layout Type describes how this set of items should be arranged in the layout. The default value is Random and should be used for items of different shapes. Items such as bricks should use values like Running Bond.
New Color
Select a Product Set and click New. Enter the name of the color.
By grouping a set of items within a color it allows the product's item number to reflect the entire hierarchy.
New Item
Select a Color and click New. Enter or select the required information for each field.
Deleting from the Catalog
To delete a Vendor, Set, Color, or Item, select it in the catalog and click the Delete icon. Click Yes at the warning prompt to delete the item or click No to keep it.
NOTE: once a folder or item is deleted it cannot be undeleted. Keep this in mind when deleting a vendor or set folder which contains other items.
Modifying the Catalog
When a folder or item is highlighted its details appear in the right-hand side of the window. Make any necessary changes.
Click Done to save the changes; clicking Cancel will discard the changes.
Catalog Import
Product catalogs can be imported from other copies of Layout Planner Pro. This feature is useful to consolidate catalogs from other users and create a master catalog for wide-spread standardization. Before a catalog can be imported it must be created and exported from Layout Planner Pro.
The DIY version does not support these features.
Accessing Catalog Import
Using the window menu, select Customize | Catalog Import.... Browse for the import file and select it.
Import Will Merge Catalogs
Importing a catalog will merge it with the current one. Keep this in mind because duplicate items may not get stored or displayed properly.
To ensure a clean import, remove duplicates in advance or delete the entire contents of the current catalog before importing.
Catalog Export
Product catalogs can be exported from other copies of Layout Planner Pro. This feature is useful to consolidate catalogs from other users and create a master catalog for wide-spread standardization. A catalog must be exported before it can be imported into other copies of Layout Planner Pro.
The DIY version does not support these features.
Accessing Catalog Export
Using the window menu, select Customize | Catalog Export.... Select the export file name and location.
Export File Format
Exported files are saved using the .TXT extension. Because these are plain-text files they can be modified or created using a text editor.
Report Preferences
Layouts created with Layout Planner can be saved in Adobe Portable Document Format (PDF). This report provides all of the information required to purchase the necessary product and install the job. Areas of the report may be customized to allow a unique branding opportunity or special notices to the customer.
The DIY version does not support these features.
Accessing Report Preferences
Using the window menu, select Customize | Report Preferences....
Customizing the Report
The following areas of the report can be modified to display other text:
- Header line 1
- Header line 2
- Header line 3
- Footer line 1
- Footer line 2
- Footer line 3
- Notice
Each field allows a considerable amount of text to be enterd. Be sure to click the Save button to save these report preferences.
Branding Preferences
Certain areas of the Layout Planner Pro software can be changed to display text or messages specific to your company's brand identity.
The DIY version does not support these features.
Accessing Branding Preferences
Using the window menu, select Customize | Branding Preferences....
Customizing the Branding
Branding preferences will be applied in certain areas of the Layout Planner software as well as reports. The following items can be changed:
- Company Name
- Company Address
- Company Website
- Application Name
For example, the Layout Planner Pro software can be renamed to Monarch Stone Layout Planner.