replace blocks

[lambertb]

I have a dwt with many styles that have blocks associated. I would like to update these blocks with new ones. The new blocks are all dwg files. Is there a way to import the dwg files and update the block definitions? Will this mess up the styles? Do I need to worry about annotation scales? Thanks.

[mathewkol · Accepted solution]

If you insert one of those dwg files and it is the same name as the block, the block will be redefined to match (if you say yes when prompted). Any style using that block will oof course be updated. Annotative scales are ignored by styles.

[lambertb]

Thanks. Anyway to do this in a batch. I have 100 blocks to replace. Thanks.

[Joe-Bouza]

Write a script. should take a fraction of the time to insert 100 blocks

[lambertb]

Having no knowledge of writing scripts, any advice?

[Joe-Bouza]

A script is merly a text file with keyboard commands and the file has an extension <name>.scr

Practice with the command line >> -insert <block name> yada yada...

There are many utilities available to simplify the process. DOTSOFT.com comes to mind, There may even be a free utility via autodesk.com

[jmayo-EE]

You can also drag and drop them from Design Center. Not automatic but you have the option to redefine the block which you do not get dragging and dropping from windows explorer.

[lambertb]

This methods seem to replace blocks already in a drawing maybe? I have a dwg file with many blocks stored. I have external dwg files that have the elements of a block. When I go to insert block, then browse, I browse to D:\blocks\ac.dwg. etc. Clicking ok asks to redefine the block. Can a script be used to import external files for blocks? The inset command with a file path doesn't seem to redefine the block. It pulls in the block already in the dwg. Thanks. PS I will check for some utilities.

[wfberry]

I think you would be best served by using Design Center.  (Type DC)  I cannot determine if you have single dwg's for blocks or dwg's with a number of blocks in them.  You know that a single dwg is a block if inserted in your drawing.

Play with Design Center, you will definitey find a need to use it.

Bill

[PappaDale]

Try Express>Blocks>Replace block with another block (BLOCKREPLACE on the command line).

[jmayo-EE]

BlockReplace does not permit you to update an existing block definition with an external dwg.

[Joe-Bouza]

Use Design Center

[kehale]

Excellent.  Simple command to 'replace blocks'. Thanks!