Chapter 7

Combining Objects into Blocks

Computer drafting derives much of its efficiency from a feature that makes it possible to combine a collection of objects into an entity that behaves as a single object. AutoCAD calls these grouped objects a block. The AutoCAD tools that work specifically with blocks make it possible to do the following:

• Create a block in your current drawing
• Repeatedly place copies of a block in precise locations in your drawing
• Share blocks between drawings
• Create DWG files either from blocks or from portions of your current drawing
• Store blocks on a palette for easy reuse in any drawing

In general, objects best suited to becoming part of a block are the components that are repeatedly used in your drawings. In architecture and construction, examples of these components are doors, windows, and fixtures; or drawing symbols, such as a North arrow; or labels for a section cut line (which is shown in Figure 7-1 in the first section of this chapter). In mechanical drawings, these can be countersunk and counterbored holes, screws, bolts, fasteners, switches, or any other objects that you find yourself repeatedly drawing. In your cabin drawing, you’ll convert the doors with swings into blocks. You’ll then create a new block that you’ll use to place the windows in the cabin drawing. To accomplish these tasks, you need to learn two new commands: BLOCK and INSERT.