This procedure is used to define a block. Refer also to the Block Tool topic. You may obtain additional help by clicking the underlined topics. If you do select an underlined topic, you may return to this procedure by clicking the Back key.
- Ensure that there is a data base open.
Refer to the procedures for creating or opening a data base. - Select the Block command from any task, then select whether you wish to create a Freehand or Polygon block.
- For a Freehand block:
Select whether the defined region of the block is to be inside or outside the perimeter of the block.
Select the condition of the block to determine whether or not objects which overlap the perimeter of the block are to be included as part of the block.
Select whether the block is to be a rectangle or polygon shape, or is to enclose all objects.
Select whether to include points that are coincident with the block perimeter as satisfying the block.
Select the Define button to construct the perimeter of the block. If a rectangle shape was selected, click the mouse at the two diagonal corners of the required rectangle to construct the new block. If a free form shape was selected, click the mouse at the required block vertices ensuring that the final click is near the starting vertex. You may not snap to existing points when defining a block.
For a Polygon block:
Select whether the defined region of the block is to be inside or outside the perimeter of the block.
Select the condition of the block to determine whether or not objects which overlap the perimeter of the block are to be included as part of the block.
Select whether the block is to be a rectangle or polygon shape, or is to enclose all objects.
Select whether to include points that are coincident with the block perimeter as satisfying the block.
Snap to a polygon object in the graphics window or enter the polygon number into the polygon edit field. Press the OK button to create a block based on the perimeter of the polygon.
Notes Only one block may be defined at any instant. The currently defined block may be made active or inactive at any time by selecting the Block Tool.
An active block may be used in conjunction with any function that is block sensitive.
The region and condition of the currently defined block may be changed at any time. However, its shape or perimeter cannot be changed. If you wish to change the shape of the perimeter, define a new block.