Equal Spacing Array?

[dimtick]

I'm trying to create a couple dynamic blocks for downspouts in elevation with evenly spaced support brackets with a maximum distance of 6 feet between the brackets.

essentually there would need to be a equation to determine the array distance.

spacing = (height / (round (height / 6 )))

ie:

height of 22 feet

22 / 6 = 3.66667

round that off to 4

22 / 4 = 5.5 feet spacing (66 inches)

hopefully that makes sense.

I know this wasn't possible with earlier versions of Autocad but from what I've read it seems possible using parameters and constraints but i can't figure it out.

any help would be greatly appreciated.

Chuck

[Charles_Shade]

Arrays are static even in Dynamic Blocks. The spacing cannot be manipulated with a formula.

The new Array Function (outside of Dynamic Blocks) allows for the spacing to change but this is not a formula based operation like you are trying to achieve in the Dynamic Block.

From what I can tell this functionality is a hybrid of a Dynamic Action and Array that is built within the programming of the software and is not casual user friendly.

[petestrycharske]

All,

I have a similar issue and am having problems getting an array within a block to work.  I have been able to get around the issue of formulas by creating user parameters and assigning those to the fields in the array.  User parameters do process simple formulas, like the spacing (not sure about rounding, though), and those user parameters can be placed into an array.  Chuck, you can see if that helps...

My question deals with an array inside of a dynamic block.  I can create a window and change the sizing of the window, but now want to put a grid pattern on a window.  After some user parameters, I can change the quantity of grids and the grid spacing using an array (not the array actions in the block editor).  However, when I change the height of the window, the grids do not increase in height accordingly.  I like the array because it gives me the flexibility to use parameters (the array actions look like they require a static distance), but really need the height of the objects to change.  Not sure where to proceed from here, so I could really use some pointers.

I am attaching a copy of my block, so that you can see what I am talking about and get a look at the user parameters.  Looking forward to any feedback.  Hope all is well and have a most blessed day!

Peace,

Pete

[petestrycharske]

Okay, the site won't let me attach the block.  Here are some screenshots instead.  By simply clicking on the block some of the properties can be changed in the "Custom" dropdown of the Properties palette.  These show how I am using the user parameters and how I can change the grid quantity.

[petestrycharske]

These show how the grid changes with the sizing of the block.  My issue is with the height, shown on "Quad Grid 03"

[Charles_Shade]

Zip your file to post.

And Constraints are a different option than using Dynamic Actions.

[petestrycharske]

Charles, thanks for the tip and here is the file.  I saw that dynamic actions didn't work the same way as constraints and think that constraints are a better way to go (at least for what I want to do).  I use Inventor quite a bit and notice that the constraints do not work exactly the same in AutoCAD.  When I attempt to use a coincident constraint on the top and bottom of the first line in my array and try to change the height, I get an error message and the model won't change height.  I feel like I am close and if I can just figure out the height issue, would be golden.  Again, any input would be greatly appreciated, even if what I wish to do cannot be done!

I should also add that I have tried to apply a constraint dimension after creating the array and am not able to tie it back to a user parameter.  I get the attached error message.

[matthABC]

Did this ever get figured out?  I basically have the same issue where my line lengths in the middle won't update with the rest of the block.  Attached is my file I am working on if anyone is able to help.

Thanks,

Matt H

[neaton]

Check out Libbya's post as it will solve part of your problem https://forums.autodesk.com/t5/dynamic-blocks/3in-or-4in-increment-stretch-amp-array/m-p/7128134/hig.... Create construction lines with rail spacing, number of rails and an XDist to use in calculations. Create the array and set the Column spacing and number of columns to the parameter names. The names won't show, just the number.

Hope this helps ~Nancy

[Emmsleys]

Hey @matthABC

Were you able to look at the suggestions mentioned by neaton ?

Post back if you need continued help on this thread.