2D Blocks

Objects created in 2D can be combined into blocks. Blocks behave and are selected as single objects. The only time individual objects can be selected is when changing object color or line type. Connection points are used to define snap points for the block. A block is defined by:


Blocks can be inserted into the current file, can be stored and inserted into other files.


There are libraries of mechanical parts (screws, bearings, threads, etc.) you can insert into your drawings. These are inserted as blocks, with predefined attributes. For more information, see Libraries of Mechanical Parts.


Creating and Inserting Blocks

Create Block - BLC

To create a block, define the insertion point, any connection points, 2D objects that comprise the block, and block name and attributes. You can use one of the block attributes as the block name, and you can select whether the attribute will be blanked or unblanked. For visible attributes, the location of attribute text must be defined.

Save Block - BLS

Saves the selected objects to a file. Enter the filename, define the insertion point, and select the block objects to be saved. It is recommended to select only one object.

Insert Block – BLI, Ctrl + K

Inserts saved blocks into the drawing area. You can select blocks from a list of saved blocks. Select the location of the insertion point and you can drag the block to new locations. Insert Block is also invoked when you insert a part from a mechanical part library. This type of block is selected from an icon menu and created according to predefined dimensions.

During block insertion, you have the following additional insertion options:

Rotate or Scale - enables you to:
  • Rotate the inserted block by a specified angle
  • Scale the inserted block by a scale value
  • Orient the X axis of the block along or perpendicular to a selected line. The X direction is defined from the insertion point to the right
  • Insert the block at the origin
  • Scale the block according to the drawing scale (not available for library parts)
  • Change units from mm to inches or vice-versa (not available for library parts)

New Insertion Point - changes the block insertion point. Insert the block first into a temporary position and then select the new insertion point.

Editing Blocks

Edit Blocks - BLE

If no block is open for editing and this function is invoked, you can select a block to edit. The selected block is highlighted and you can use any 2D functions to create, edit, or delete block objects.

If a block is currently open for editing and this function is invoked, the block objects are highlighted and inserted into a temporary work set. You can select other objects to add to the block, or select objects to be deleted from the block. See also Selecting 2D Objects.

Change Block Insertion Point - BIE

Redefine the block insertion point.

Edit Block Attributes - BAE

Add, edit or delete attributes of the selected block. The attributes list appears after you select the block. You can blank or unblank attributes as well, and for visible attributes you can change text position or text attributes as well.