Menu path
Right menu: CAD > File > Sub-Fig
Top menu: File > Sub-Fig
🧾 What Sub-Figures are
Sub-Figures are CAD entities that have been grouped together and can be managed as a single item. This is particularly useful in roofing projects where you need to place multiple identical components.
For example, if you have multiple solar panels to install on a roof, you can draw them in 3D and then group them into a Sub-Figure. This allows you to place all the solar panels as a single item rather than positioning each component individually.
Roof Wizard uses this process extensively with Fixtures - pre-built components like vents, skylights, solar panels and other roofing accessories. Refer to the section about Fixtures for more detail.
🔧 Sub-Figure menu options
The Sub-Figure menu provides three main functions:
Function | Description |
Open... | Opens an existing sub-figure from your Database. Browse and select previously saved sub-figures to use in your current project. |
Save As... | Saves the currently selected CAD entities as a sub-figure into your Database. This creates a reusable component for future projects. |
Merge | Merges an existing sub-figure into your current model. The sub-figure components become part of your active drawing. |
🛠 How to use Sub-Figures
To create a Sub-Figure: Model the item in 3D using the regular CAD drawing tools, select the CAD entities that comprise the unit you want to group, then use Save As... to save them as a reusable component - eg SolarPanelx6 or SolarPanelx10 etc
To use an existing Sub-Figure: Use Open... to browse your saved sub-figures and select the one you need and place in the model - it stays a figure
To add Sub-Figure content to your model: Use Merge to incorporate a sub-figure's components into your current 3D model or;
Add them as a Fixture (refer to that section for more details on creating Fixtures)
💡 Practical applications in roofing
Sub-Figures are ideal for:
Grouping fixtures or equipment
Creating custom vents, solar panels or skylight assemblies
Standardising complex flashing details
Building libraries of commonly used roofing components
⚠️ Important notes
Sub-Figures work with the Database system to store and retrieve your grouped components. Make sure you have appropriate database access when saving or opening sub-figures.