This patch provides layered output for the pdf() graphics device.

• ./add_pdf_layers_2.16.0.diff - This is a patch for R v2.16.0 (Unsuffered Consequences)
• ./add_pdf_layers_r61733.diff - This is a patch for the top of the development tree as of 23/01/2013 (revision 61733)

to install:

cd [R-root]
patch -p1<add_pdf_layers_xxx.diff

As of yet there is no automated test to check for proper function of the layers in pdf().

To use:

>pdf("file/name", onepage=TRUE)
>plot(a figure)       #layer 0 (background)
>plot(another figure) #layer 1 (foreground)
>[continue...]
>dev.off()

Layers will render as expected in viewers based on poppler and such, also in Adobe reader products.

In Adobe professional products (CS# etc) the layers will appear as analogous clipping groups.