What is the `ref` in `<q-layout>` used for?

[Sixtus]

The ref is often set as an attribute for <q-layout> in the documentation. I cannot find an explanation for this, though.

<q-layout ref=“layout” view=“hHr LpR lFf” >
{…}
</q-layout

In what scenario should I use this?

[Max]

allows you to reference it somewhere in your code…

look here: http://quasar-framework.org/components/layout.html

[benoitranque]

its a reference to that component, allows you to access its methods. so you can do $refs.layout.toggleRight()