Smart Client Extension for AutoCAD

Creating Full Scale Blocks

Although Archibus supplies a block library for common facility items, you may wish to use the Utilities / Graphic Commands / New Block Drawing command  to define your own blocks.

When you draw full-scale blocks, the items that define the block should be drawn in dimensions representing the unit's actual size. Suppose you are creating a block to represent a rectangular end table that measures 20 by 30 inches and your drawing uses inches as its measurement unit. You would draw a rectangle that represents 20 by 30 inches.

You can include any type of drawing item—circles, arcs, rectangles, and multi-sided polylines—to make your block resemble the item it represents.

New blocks are typically drawn on layer 0 because when the finished block is inserted in a floor plan drawing, it will assume the characteristics of the layer on which it is inserted.

To create a full scale block

1. From the Ribbon, click Utilities / Graphic Commands / New Block Drawing.
2. Choose a template if desired.
3. Set a reference grid to guide you in your drawing.

   Since block drawings depict items such as tables, chairs, and equipment, you typically want to set your grid point to be fairly close together, such as 1 or 3 inches. This enables you to draw the item's exact size
   

4. Add shapes to the drawing to depict the item.  
   Save your drawing to the Symbols directory for the project you are working in.