Import layer hierarchy to new documents

RWickham

TLDR: I'd like the ability to import fully-structured layer hierarchies directly to new documents.

In my line of work -BIM Detailing-, I utilize layer hierarchies a LOT as I make equipment-specific mark-ups and layers in detailing documents. I utilize layers and layer configs so the BIM modelers can hide elements they don't want/need to see, therefore, reducing visual clutter while providing all relevant details in one document . Unfortunately this process requires a preemptive "dance" whenever creating a new plan-view document.

-Open "Cover page" which has the desired layer hierarchy already established. Insert the pages I wish to add the established layer structure to. Delete cover page.

It's a simple process, but I'd like to be able to save a layer structure, and import that directly to a new document more easily.

Ex.

Level 1

Level 1/Electrical Rooms

Level 1/Electrical Rooms/ER1

Level 1/Electrical Rooms/ER2

etc.

Additionally, I feel it would be nice to create a layer structure in excel -due to its auto fill functions- and import that straight to my layers.

Dhanush Kodi Raj

Hi RWickham ,

thanks for the clear write-up. Your cover page method is a common way to carry a layer structure across, but there's a shorter route. Keep one blank template PDF with your full hierarchy, then in the Layers panel go to Add Layer from Page, choose Add Child (or Add Before / Add After), pick the template and select "Use Source Layers" in the Add Layer dialog. That duplicates the template's layers into the active document without inserting and deleting a cover page. Please test it on a copy first, as I'm not sure the nested structure (Level 1 / Electrical Rooms / ER1) always comes across intact.

I'm not aware of a native way to build or import a layer list from Excel. For the full ask, saving and importing a layer structure plus the Excel import, please post it under Product Ideas & Feedback > New Idea so others can vote on it. Your Level 1 / Electrical Rooms / ER1 example is the kind of detail that helps the product team.

Thank You