1 block definition with multiple colours

Hi,

Autocad 2012 full version

i have a large symbols library and need to have 1 block name and count but be able to show them in different colours depending on where they are placed. (eg pink block at low level and green at high level, but when counted by block name it counts 2 not 1 green 1 pink)

any ideas?

thanks

If you are placing the blocks on different layers that have different colors assigned then I don't see what the problem is. It's still the same block no matter what layer it is on. The count will be correct.

Example: You have a block called Balloon.

You have a drawing with 6 layers. Let's call the layers A, B, C, D, E, and F. Each layer has a different color. A=white, B=red, C=yellow, D=green, E=cyan, and F=blue.

Put a Balloon block on each layer. If you created the block on layer "0", as one should, when it is placed on each layer it will assume the layer properties assigned including the layer's color.

Now issue the BCOUNT command and select all the Balloons. The count will be a total of 6. The object's color has no bearing on the count.

Command: BCOUNT

Press Enter to select all or...

Select objects: Specify opposite corner: 6 found

Select objects:

Block.......Count

-----------------

avball......6

While the six vales shown above are all the same block they are each on a different layer assigned a different color.

Insert from tool palette with layer/color already set.

But if the OP had the same block on ten different layers then he would have to have ten blocks that all look the same except for the color right?

Yes, but the layer would be made and drawing come in on correct color/layer, just insert. Much faster in long run, depending on how often it is needed.

OK...now I see where you were coming from. Works for me too.

Blocks created on Layer 0 will inherit the color from the layer are insert on.

When defining the block you may use a specific color (or layer). In this case the new inserts will keep that color.

You can also set the block to 'color by block' then you can change it to what ever color you like.