Measure Layers
The Measuring Layers guide shows you how to capture multiple areas or shapes within a single measurement. By defining a clear reference edge, you can build up several layers that align accurately, giving you a complete diagram of your project.
This section covers:
How the Layers feature works
Step-by-step instructions to create layers
Key tips for accuracy and repeatability
Using Closed and Open Shape measurements
How does the Layers feature work?
The ability to capture multiple areas or shapes within a single measurement is made possible by defining an A-B Reference Edge. The first two points of your Base Layer form this Reference Edge, allowing Moasure to position subsequent Layers correctly within the overall measurement.
Consider these three key factors when choosing your first edge:
Length: The longer the first edge, the less impact human error will have on the measurement, so walk at a brisk pace, aiming to pause just as the timer bar transitions from the green zone to the amber zone. Maintain a smooth, steady path as you walk, as this will enhance the accuracy of your Moasure device in positioning each layer relative to others.
Distinctiveness and Repeatability: Select a distinct and easily repeatable first edge. For optimal clarity and ease, we recommend choosing a long straight line using the 'Straight Line' path type for clarity.
Location: Position your first edge centrally within your overall measurement area. This reduces the distance you need to travel for each additional layer.
When capturing subsequent Layers, return to the original A and B locations so that Moasure can determine the relative position of the new Layer.
Keep the first edge centrally located to maximise accuracy by minimising the travel distance between different areas.
Step-by-step instructions on how to create Layers
To start a measurement, tap the + icon in the bottom centre of your screen.
Select your required Measurement Type. In this example, select Closed Shape.
Select the Path Type you would like to use to start your measurement. We recommend the Straight Line Path Type as your initial A–B Reference Edge.
Capture your first two measurement points, A and B. Make sure your first edge is long enough to provide a reliable reference – ideally around 13–16 feet (4–5 metres) where the site allows. Important: Points A and B form the Reference Edge, but they are also the first two points of your Base Layer. Do not finish the measurement after Point B simply to create a separate reference line. Continue measuring to complete your Base Layer.
Continue measuring the first area as normal. Once you're ready to finish your Base Layer, tap the red STOP icon in the bottom centre of your screen.
To create a second Layer, tap the Layers icon in the bottom-right corner of your screen and select Add Layer. Important: The first two points captured at the beginning of your Base Layer are used as the Reference Points for all subsequent Layers. Choose points that are easy to identify and return to accurately. Remember to save your measurements by tapping File > Save. Use Save As Copy when you want to keep the original measurement unchanged and save your new measurement – which now includes your Base Layer and additional Layer – as a separate file.
Make sure the two Reference Points are easy to access and locate, as every time you create a new Layer you will need to return to the first two Reference Points.
Ideally, the two reference points must be separated by around 13 to 16 feet (4-5 metres).
When starting a new Layer, you’ll notice that the Path type is automatically set to 'Ignore Line'. This will prevent the orientation line from showing on your measurement diagram.
Once you’ve moved from the reference line to the first point of your next measurement and are ready to measure, don’t forget to switch from 'Ignore Line' to the Path type you’d like to use next (Straight Line, Trace Line, Arc, Circle, etc.)
Once you’re ready to finish your second measurement, tap on the red 'STOP' icon button in the bottom centre of your screen.
To add further Layers, repeat the process by returning to the original A and B Reference Points.
Key Tips
All Layers must share the same first two Reference Points to ensure they are positioned correctly relative to one another.
When adding a new Layer, the Path between the Reference Edge and the first point of the new Layer will be set to Ignore Line, meaning this line will not appear on your measurement diagram.
Once you've arrived at the area you want to measure, change the Path Type for the measurement.
You can switch between other Path Types throughout your measurement at any pause point.
Remember, measurement error grows with time, not distance.
Pause every 6–8 seconds throughout every measurement.
Try to maintain a pace of at least 3 ft (1 m) per second – pause more regularly for longer measurements. Use each pause to plan your next move.
Use the Ignore Points tool within the app to ignore individual points captured during the measurement. Once a point is ignored, a line will be drawn between the points before and after the ignored point(s). Use this feature when you need to walk around an obstacle or when you don't have line of sight through an obstacle.
View measurement feedback from Moasure Coach to help you measure with confidence and accuracy.
Using Closed and Open Shapes with Moasure
The Moasure app supports both Closed Shape and Open Shape measurements when working with Layers. However, it's important to understand that the Measurement Type selected for your Base Layer determines the Open or Closed Shape behaviour of all subsequent Layers.
If you start with Closed Shape on the Base Layer, subsequent Layers will also use Closed Shape behaviour.
If you start with Open Shape on the Base Layer, subsequent Layers will follow Open Shape behaviour.
You cannot independently switch individual Layers between Closed Shape and Open Shape within the same measurement.
This is different from changing Path Type. You can still switch between Path Types such as Straight Line, Trace Line, Arc, Circle or Ignore Line while capturing individual Layers.
Measuring an open area when using Closed Shape
If your Base Layer uses Closed Shape, you can still finish a Layer without physically returning to the point where you started.
When you finish the Layer, Moasure will automatically connect the final point back to the starting point with a dotted line to close the shape.
If required, you can reopen the shape afterwards.
Key Takeaways
Your first measurement becomes the Base Layer.
The first two points of the Base Layer form the A–B Reference Edge.
The A–B Reference Edge is not a separate Layer.
Return to the same A and B locations whenever you add another Layer.
The Measurement Type selected for your Base Layer determines the Open or Closed Shape behaviour of all subsequent Layers.
You can still change Path Types while measuring individual Layers.
Choose a Reference Edge that is long, distinctive and easy to return to accurately.
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