# Layout Objects

## Beams <a href="#bearing-envelopes" id="bearing-envelopes"></a>

Beams can be used to support components.&#x20;

* Beams can be displayed with [hatching](https://docs.paragontruss.com/layout/layout-overview-1/interface-overview/layout-options-toolbar/render-mode-options) based on the Top Elevation property.

## Walls <a href="#bearing-envelopes" id="bearing-envelopes"></a>

Walls can be used to support components.&#x20;

* Walls are displayed differently based on the Structural vs. Non-Structural property
* Walls can be displayed with [hatching](https://docs.paragontruss.com/layout/layout-overview-1/interface-overview/layout-options-toolbar/render-mode-options) based on the Top Elevation property.

<figure><img src="/files/irRCoe8nC5mQvRzUavZn" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Ceiling Planes <a href="#ceiling-planes" id="ceiling-planes"></a>

Ceiling planes represent the ceiling underneath a roof, and they can be used as boundaries for defining truss profiles.

## Ceiling Trays <a href="#ceiling-trays" id="ceiling-trays"></a>

Ceiling trays represent the ceiling underneath a roof, and they can be used as a boundaries for defining truss profiles.

## Feature Pattern Containers <a href="#feature-pattern-containers" id="feature-pattern-containers"></a>

Feature pattern containers are 3-D "boxes" that contain feature pattern (typically "parallel chord") trusses. The height of the box is the depth of the floor, and its boundaries are formed either by bearing envelopes or work lines.

## **Chase Area**

Chase areas can be added to a feature pattern container so that any feature pattern truss envelopes that overlap the area will not generate webs in that space. This can be used to prevent collisions with an air duct, for example.

## **Step Area**

Step areas can be added to feature pattern containers to define a vertical step in the bottom chord for feature pattern truss envelopes that overlap the area.

<figure><img src="/files/oWIPj6zK3h3X56Nl0Xhw" alt=""><figcaption><p>Feature Pattern Truss with a 6" Vertical Step Defined Using a Layout Step Area</p></figcaption></figure>

## Roof Planes <a href="#roof-planes" id="roof-planes"></a>

Roof planes define the outer shape of a roof, including its pitch(es), overhang, heel height, etc. They are "cut" against each other to form a 3-D shape that can be used to define truss profiles.

### Heel Height

<figure><img src="/files/r4oBj1Oi53dP2EvNsHw3" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Butt Cut

<figure><img src="/files/K2o4irG9iLKYePORi54Y" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Overhang <a href="#truss-envelopes" id="truss-envelopes"></a>

<figure><img src="/files/CqZgqh6qXI8WzWqOtuuN" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Cantilever <a href="#truss-envelopes" id="truss-envelopes"></a>

<figure><img src="/files/wyw64fhssIvEv78biTOY" alt="" width="519"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Truss Envelopes <a href="#truss-envelopes" id="truss-envelopes"></a>

Truss Envelopes define the profile of a truss. They follow the 3-D boundaries formed by the parts of a roof or floor and are used to generate and place component designs.

## Truss Groups

Truss Groups allow you to organize Truss Envelopes and linked Component Designs into logical collections, such as units, buildings, or phases, to simplify selection and management. Groups can also be nested under parent groups, making it easy to view and control complex multi-building or multi-unit projects. Refer to [Create & Manage Truss Groups](/layout/how-to/truss-envelopes/create-and-manage-truss-groups.md) for more information.&#x20;

## Work Lines <a href="#work-lines" id="work-lines"></a>

Work lines are simple lines you can add to a layout as reference for creating layout objects.


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