Dynamic Block with Array issue

[Dj_T_Rex2002]

I need help please. I am trying to learn how to use Array in dynamic blocks. So far I know you have to use Dimensional constraint to make it work. However, I am not sure how to make it work with my entire object. I tried using Geometric Constraints on the entire block, but it still gave me issues throwing lines all over the place lol. I would just like to know if there is a way to have the "grip" points stretch on their own, rather than me doing it manually. When I stretch the object by drawing the points for the Width or the Height, it works by grabbing the Grip Points of the Array. However, if I try to stretch it back down, it goes nuts. Will appreciate the help.

Thank you.

[h_s_walker]

This is just to start you off. It needs work. You don't need to use constraints at all. See the attached drawing

[j.palmeL29YX · Accepted solution]

If you want to achieve what I think you want to achieve (you have to calculate the values of the arrays), then IMHO you are right: You need a parametric driven geometry (constraints).
As an example I attach a suggestion. 

Before I try to explain (if you need) my solution (that's not done with two three words), please confirm whether this meets your requirements. 

[Dj_T_Rex2002]

J that is exactly what I am looking for. Maybe I was using too many parameters and constraints. I used the auto constraint. I guess my issue is, why would some areas have a Dimensional Constraint Parameter and some don't? I know it's because it could "over constraint," but still, how should I know what locations will need them? Lets say for example, how did you know to put "d7" at that location and not at the top? Also, thank you so much for your help. I spent two days trying to search a video out there that explains it but could only find very simple ones lol.

[Dj_T_Rex2002]

@j.palmeL29YX Ok, I just want to see if I am on the right track. Could you just take a look at a different one I am creating before I start adding constraints? I was thinking of doing Auto Constraint but don't know if that is a good idea. 

[j.palmeL29YX · Accepted solution]

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@Dj_T_Rex2002 wrote:

 I spent two days trying to search a video out there that explains it but could only find very simple ones lol.

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Here the next very simple ...  😉

>>Click<<

(The .mp4-video exceeds the here allowed file size)

[EDIT]: 

If the link doesn't work, here splitted in two parts

[Dj_T_Rex2002]

WOW, absolutely LOVED the videos and you have no idea how much I appreciate your help. I will try with the next block. You are amazing. Thank you @j.palmeL29YX !!!

[JBerns]

@Dj_T_Rex2002 ,

Did you ever add diameter control for the holes?

I too am developing a flange block. I have controls for:

• Inside length
• Inside width
• Flange leg length
• Flange leg thickness
• Hole Spacing and Quantity

See drawing attached. Modify block using Properties palette and the Block Table

I had a diameter constraint for the hole (circle) size. It was working. Then I added the circle to an array and the diameter constraint seemed to have become a constant.

     

I could no longer control it with a user parameter.

I left a circle and diametric dimension below the flange if someone wants to experiment.

Is this constraint conversion a limitation of dynamic blocks, arrays, and dimensional constraints? 

So frustrating to get this far in development and then hit a road block!

Perhaps someone ( @j.palmeL29YX / @h_s_walker / @Libbya ) knows of a workaround to control the hole size within an array.

Thank you for your time and attention. I look forward to your replies.

Regards,

Jerry

[Libbya]

If you use a dynamic array, you can dynamically edit the hole diameter (source object geometry), but you cannot dynamically edit the column offset.

If you use an array created using the ARRAY command (as in your block), then you can dynamically edit the column offset but you cannot dynamically edit the diameter (source object geometry).

Pick your poison.  

[JBerns]

Ackn.

That seems deliberate by Autodesk.

That certainly limits the potential of this dynamic block. 

Thanks again for your feedback.

Regards,

Jerry

[MMcCall402]

A couple ideas:

You can make ARRAYS of several different hole sizes and then use a visibility state to choose which one to show.  You can add this to the block table as well for dynamic selection of the correct visibility state.

Make the hole its own block and then use that block in your dynamic blocks ARRAY.  Edit the hole block when you need a different size.  (yes, I know this isn't a great idea and its kinda manual, but its a way of editing the source object in a variable array)

[JBerns]

@MMcCall402,

Interesting suggestions. Thanks. I may try those.

Here is what I have developed so far.