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A Layout is a frame container that divides the operator interface into regions
Displays Layouts →  Concept | Reference


Overview

Layouts provide the structural framework for operator interfaces, defining persistent regions that remain stable while content changes during navigation.


What is a Layout?

A Layout is a frame container that divides the operator interface into regions. Some regions persist (Header, Menu, Footer) while the Content region changes as users navigate between displays.

Key Concept: Users navigate between pages, but the overall interface structure remains consistent.


Layout Regions

Layouts can have up to five regions:

RegionPositionPurposeBehavior
HeaderTopBranding, title, primary navigationAlways visible
MenuLeftAsset tree, page navigation, secondary navigationOptional; hamburger menu on mobile
ContentCenterWorking area — displays load hereChanges during navigation
SubmenuRightTools, filters, contextual navigationOptional; hidden on mobile
FooterBottomStatus bar, alarms, limited navigationOptional; often hidden on mobile


Region Diagram

???????????????????????????????????????????????
?                   HEADER                    ?
???????????????????????????????????????????????
?         ?                         ?         ?
?  MENU   ?        CONTENT          ? SUBMENU ?
? (Left)  ?        (Center)         ? (Right) ?
?         ?                         ?         ?
???????????????????????????????????????????????
?                   FOOTER                    ?
???????????????????????????????????????????????

Content Navigation

When users open a display, it loads into the Content region by default:

  • Header, Menu, and Footer remain unchanged
  • Only the Content area updates
  • Provides consistent user experience during operational workflows

Navigation Commands:

csharp

@Display.PageName.Open()        // Opens page in Content region
@Client.OpenDisplay("PageName") // Alternative syntax

Default Layout

When you create a new solution, FrameworX automatically creates:

ItemDefault
Startup LayoutHeader + Content (or Header + Menu + Content, depending on template)
Header PageHEADER
Content PageMAINPAGE


These defaults can be changed in the Layout configuration or by the solution template used.


Display Types

Not all displays can be used in Layout regions:

Display TypeUse in LayoutPurpose
Page? YesStandard display for layout regions
Popup? NoTemporary child window, appears on top of pages
Dialog? NoModal child window, requires user response


Note: Popups and Dialogs are opened programmatically and float above the layout — they cannot be assigned to layout regions.


Multiple Layouts

A solution can have multiple layouts for different contexts:

  • Operations Layout — Full Header + Menu + Content + Footer
  • Kiosk Layout — Content only (no navigation)
  • Mobile Layout — Simplified regions

Each layout defines which regions are active and which displays fill each region at startup.


Size Considerations

When creating displays for specific regions:

RegionSize Consideration
HeaderFixed height — keep consistent (e.g., 40-60-80px)
MenuFixed width — keep consistent (e.g., 200-250px). It can have a resize splitter.
ContentFlexible — adapts to available space
SubmenuFixed width — keep consistent
FooterFixed height — keep consistent (e.g., 30-50px)


Tip: Header and Menu displays should maintain consistent dimensions across the application. You can create custom Header or Menu when the application opens in a Mobile device.


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