Entered value not the same as dimension - dynamic block

[Anonymous]

Hey there,

Been working with Dynamic Blocks for a little bit but not I encountered a small problem. I made this frame (see attached file), but when I edit the length the dimension it's not the same as the value I type in. Width doesn't see to have a problem though... Problem seemed to have appeared when I added the second STRETCH action to the length so I can keep the middle part centered all the time.

Can anyone help please?.... Please please..

[Libbya · Accepted solution]

Select the horizontal parameter, go to properties and change base to midpoint.  Then replace the two stretches with one associated with each parameter endpoint.  For their respective selection sets select only the objects you want to move away from the midpoint.  See screencast.

[Anonymous]

I tried deleting my STRETCH actions and afterwards select the horizontal parameter, go to properties and change base to midpoint just like you said and replace them but that didn't work as well. I simply changed the the horizontal parameter for the existing set-up I made and it worked. I guess you need to keep the distance multiplier of -1.0 on the left STRETCH.

Thanks 🙂

[Anonymous]

Wait wait wait... I imported my block into an existing project and now I get the same error dimension.. If I make a new project and import this block it's all good.

What can it be wrong with my project???

[Libbya]

The screencast shows the exact step-by-step on how to fix your block.  I even demonstrate at the end of the screencast that it works properly.  If it did not work for you, it would be good to understand why so you do not make the same mistake(s) in the future.  With the method I used in the screencast I did not have a -1 distance modifier on either action.  I did take care to associate the left parameter endpoint with the left stretch, though.  If you associate the right parameter endpoint with both stretch actions, you would need a -1 distance modifier on the left one.

If the block works in one file and then does not work when inserted into another file, it could be because you have a pre-existing block definition of the same name in the second file.  In that case 'redefine' would be needed.   

[Anonymous]

Alright, yeah. It seems that it's all good now using your technique. Different question though if I'm allowed:

How can I duplicate an existing block and use it as a starting point for another? 🙂

[Libbya]

There are several ways to use an existing block as a starting point for a new block.  The way I usually use is to open the block in block editor and then use the 'save as' option in the Open/Save pulldown on the left side of the ribbon.  Then exit block editor and insert your new block.

[Anonymous]

Thanks a lot for everything!