Topic: Creating Block Definitions(Plotted Size vs. Unit Sizing)

[Jeff H]

For creating Block Definitions for the company to use:
 
When a block represents a real life object than that is pretty easy and will be the size of the actual object.

When creating block definitions that a symbol represent the real life object for example a receptacle.
Do you create non - annotative block definition the size it should be if plotted 1:1 so you just have to apply the the reciprocal of the scale factor? For example 96 for 1/8" or 48 for 1/4". Easy to quickly change with  or without code, and able to set factor on tool palettes, etc....
 
Or like they are already have set up here for what size it should be at 1/8" then  scale for different scales?
 
Do any of use 'unit sizing' where a block is defined 1 unit x 1 unit then scaled in x,y and z to actual size?
 
This is for non-annotative blocks any other or better ideas?

[mjfarrell]

As a practical matter, anything that doesn't need to be scaled nonuniformly is a good thing.
If it's a real item for practical 3d modeling, use real sizes.
If it's a symbolic thing, draw the symbol at a usable size for the scale it will be shown at.

As for the receptacle, fill it to the line, and hand it to the nurse right over there.

[deegeecees]

As a rule, I always draw to scale with the exception of when it's not practical, as in say a junction box on a large floor plan, then for the sake of clarity I'll use a block that represents it, usually with attributes denoting size and type.

Pretty much what Keith just said.

[Keith™]

Pretty much what Keith just said.

HUH? Are you psychic or something .. how did you know I just said that?

I am scared ... very scared ...

and no I didn't just think that other thing, you are mistaken!

[deegeecees]

Miss Cleo told me.

She also mentioned that other thing.

[Kerry]

Jeff,
I use 1:1 for model features. ... Immutable First Law

Annotative and Symbols defined so they are presented correctly when scaled by DIMSCALE.

I sometimes use 'UnitScaling' for Symbols.

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Are receptacles like Widgets ??

[Keith™]

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Are receptacles like Widgets ??

A receptacle is an electrical power outlet for plugging in your various electrical devices. It is usually represented on a floor plan by a circle with two parallel lines running through it.

[deegeecees]

For that I'd use a block definition of a receptacle drawn at 1:1 (taking the largest dimension of the real object), and scale accordingly. Easily done for multiple instances using no programming at all, or code a little macro tailored to it.

Using a block definition you'll be able to work with it down the road a bit easier than with a Symbol, or Shape if you'd ever need to expand to data extraction, but I believe your working with time constraints, so that's probably moot atm.