VISUAL NOTE 001 / SYSTEMS

How to read
a system cutaway.

A separated view makes room to see relationships. It also changes the way a real assembly appears. A useful explanation helps the reader understand both.

Kevin Ly / Motren StudioPublished 1 November 2026Visual communication note
A conceptual system with four layers separated vertically for explanation
Motren’s original system study. The spacing separates the parts for visibility; it does not specify construction gaps.

Start with
what the drawing is for.

This conceptual drawing uses an exploded view to separate a surface, protection layer, membrane and substrate. Its purpose is to help a viewer distinguish parts and relate them to a whole.

It does not identify a particular manufacturer’s system, show every junction or give dimensions. Those omissions matter when deciding how the picture may be used.

Read the labels before interpreting the geometry.

Labels tell the audience what each simplified shape represents. Consistent names and colours help them move between the whole assembly and one part. In a commissioned piece, the names should follow the agreed product documents.

Distinguish explanatory spacing from a physical gap.

The layers are pulled apart so they can be seen. A gap in an exploded view may be a communication device. A useful caption or an assembled view prevents the viewer from having to guess.

Ask what is outside the view.

A simple cutaway may omit fixings, penetrations, transitions or surrounding conditions. Agree which of these matter to the question being explained. Add another view when one picture cannot carry the necessary detail.

Source and scope
Based on Motren’s self-initiated system study, created for this studio website. No product-specific installation detail or standards requirement is asserted. For a commissioned illustration, the actual documents, versions and technical reviewer are agreed at the start.
Commission a diagram or cutaway Next: give each frame a job

What needs
explaining?

A product link, a drawing or a few lines about the question is enough to start. Tell me who needs to understand it and where it will be used.

kevin@certifiedwaterproofing.com.au

A GOOD EXPLANATION STARTS HERE.

Tell me about
your project.

Email kevin@certifiedwaterproofing.com.au directly, or prepare a brief below to open in your email app.

This form prepares your brief in this page. When you choose “Open email draft”, the details are passed to your email app. You review and send it there.