dynamic block/attribute/field definition from block properties table/Excel

[Anonymous]

I have created a single dynamic block with multiple attributes.  The attrib-values are assigned from a combination of user input, system variable and fields associated with a properties table.   Now I want to define several more dyn-blocks using the same method.    I tried making a block of the attribute definitions (to insert and explode) in the new block definition.  I have trouble getting the definitions to update in the secondary dynamic blocks.  From what I have read it sounds like a block definition within a block definition problem but I have not figured it out (obviously).

The values of the block properties table are assigned using copy and paste from and excel sheet (created in QuickBooks).  The data format is "general" and appears to have no complication with the problem.   

To those that see where I am heading with this....I plan to write an excel file with DATAEXTRACTION and then dump it back inot Quickbooks as well as create a BOM schedule in the drawing file.  To those that have already tried or accomplished this...can you give me any heads-up on problems????

www.javenco.com

[Anonymous]

I kind of understand what you are getting at i think. If you want multiple dynamic blocks within a single block i would suggest using the Visibility attribute and parameter. This allows you to have multiple "blocks within a block" kind of. It pretty much sets blocks up and allows you to switch between them. I am not sure how it would work on the attribute side of the problem and if it will see all the attributes at one time but as far as i know AutoCAD does not support blocks inside of another block. Best way i can see is to experiment with Visibility.

[Anonymous]

I want to insert the attribute definitions into the drawing in order that I don;t have to redefine them each time I create a unique "D-Block".  In addition I wondered if there is any significance to the order of definition of a parameter and action relative to another parameter and action.  I have seen some conversation relative to using regen to update attribute values coming from a property table.  I was suffering through the same problem when I accidentally found if I create a property table, then my attribute definitions (using the block placeholder).....then I can go back into the property table and add parameter properties that are are direct ties to the attribute definition.  This makes it so the user sees changes to the attributes immediately upon selecting a different line from the property table.   There is no available selection of a two way lookup to facilitate this in my property table definition.

Thanks for your input.  Watching the tutorials that I have was great but naturally there are questions that remain.

A man in a boat........