How do I setup a block to trim a line on insertion?

[Anonymous]

I created blocks that I want to be able to insert onto a line and have the part of the line that is within an area of the block (a circle area) to be trimmed automatically. Is there a way to set this up while avoiding solid hatches and wipeout? With solid hatches I have issues with plotting and wipeout as far as I can tell only works if you set up the draw order correctly for the objects in the drawing.

Thanks,

Andrew

[Libbya]

There is no way to have a dynamic block alter the line work that is outside the block.  Wipeout is the only way I know of to do what you are asking for.  Yes, the draworder needs to be correct.  You might be able to make something work using a text object with a background mask within the block, but it would require the same draworder as a wipeout and would be more difficult to size correctly.   

[Anonymous]

I have access to existing blocks that sort of do what I want, but I do not have someone over here to ask how the blocks were setup. How these blocks work is when I go to insert them (from a tool palette), I am prompted in the command line to either <B> break a line or <S> insert the block in space. If I select break a line, I can click on a line to insert the block and the line is trimmed where the block is inserted. Looks like some scripting to me. Thoughts? 

[Libbya · Accepted solution]

Yes, that tool palette tool will implement some script/lisp routine prior to block insertion.  That's not part of the dynamic block functionality, though.  You might want to ask on the LISP forum.  

[Anonymous]

I would create wipeouts within the blocks that you normally use for this feature. Its easy to set up and use. Simply use WIPEOUT command and create your boundary for it. Use DRAWORDER to set both objects to the front with the linework you want shown ontop of the wipeout. This would let you insert blocks and select your point of intersection and the block will then not show any linework that is below it.

[Anonymous]

I don't want there to be the possibility of the block going behind the line effectively making the wipeout useless.

[Anonymous]

If that happens you can use a simple DRAWORDER command and put it above the line or the line below the block.

[Anonymous]

Why not go the Wipeout route, but once placed (in the correct drawing order) group or even block the line & block together. this will avoid the two objects from changing drawing order relative to each other.

Hope this helps,

Alan