trouble with an array in a dynamic block

[Anonymous]

Hi all...

I've created a simple dynamic block with  a stretch and array action in both directions from center.

My array spacing is set to 2".

I was able to get it to work but the next object in the array will not show up until I stretch the block at least 1" past where the object should show up.

Is there a setting that controls the array grip?

This is a formed cover that we use sometimes. All of the hidden lines but the top one represent the part below the cover. The roundish object has the array action. Sometimes the cover ends just past the roundish object.

Thanks,

Greg

[Libbya · Accepted solution]

The best way I know of to think of when the arrayed objects appear is to think that the first new object appears when the associated parameter is equal to 2X the array column offset.  The second new object appears when the parameter is equal to 3X the column offset, etc...  Understanding that rule makes controlling the appearance of new objects fairly easy.

Why are you using any constraints in this block?  They do nothing helpful in this case and can cause issues. 

In the following screencast, I add two more linear parameters and set them to chain=yes.  By using chained parameters for the two array actions, I can make the initial length whatever I like and the point the arrayed objects appear can be easily controlled.    

[Anonymous]

Thanks for the fix Libbya.

I followed the steps and got my block to work the way I wanted it.

I don't know if there was supposed to be sound on the video but I couldn't get it off mute. 

I put constraints in the blocks because it was the only way I could get the stretches to work properly but they sometimes do unexpected things.

I'm going to have to try to revise a couple of my other dynamic blocks that are giving me issues using these techniques.

Thanks again....

Greg

[Anonymous]

Hello Libbya...

Can you take a look at the attached dynamic block? It's another one I created with a bunch of constraints that would sometimes do odd things.

I've removed all the constraints & reworked the stretch actions and that part is working properly. I've also added a rotation parameter but the lines want to skew when I rotate it. I've tried selecting the linear parameters which lets me rotate everything correctly but things start skewing when I stretch the parts out.

Thanks...

Greg

[Libbya · Accepted solution]

Set all of the parameters to chained=no.  When a parameter is set to chained, then when its grip is moved, all actions associated with that parameter grip will be activated.  It is a powerful tool but needs to be used at the appropriate times.  See screencast.

[Anonymous]

Thanks again....

Is there somewhere that explains about all this or some online tutorials available?

It looks like if I knew what I was doing, I could make our main product (a steel frame & wire mesh panel) that could be stretched both horizontally & vertically depending on the size i need. That would save me hours of drawing time!

Greg

[Libbya]

There are quite a few Youtube dynamic block tutorial vids covering the basics.  AutoCAD help gives info also.  This forum is a good resource for learning the details.