Problems with Blocks & Linetypes

Hi all,

I've recently generated some simple blocks.

The block contents comprise of two separate layers. For one of the layers I have drawn lines with a differing 'linetype' - specifically a 'dashed' line.

I've since used the wblock command to convert these blocks to a .dwg file.

When inserting these blocks into an alternate drawing, I lose the 'linetype' information. Any lines that were dashed in my block files are now solid again.

When I open up the block editor from the alternate drawing it too shows no sign of dashed lines.

When I open up the block file .dwg files, the dashed line info is still there.

Is there any way of incorporating the linetype data into the destination drawing, or will I have to define a separate layer in my block files with the alternate linetype, flag the dashed lines linetype as 'by layer' and go from there?

Thanks

Berg

The 'Dashed' linetype should be in the destination drawing, after you've inserted the block. If it is not visible, then you might check your ltscale variable setting, as compared to the ltscale of the block's drawing.

Hope this helps!

Ok, good point.

I did have to scale the block down by a factor of 1/50 in order to fit it into the destination drawing at a reasonable size.

How do I go about checking the 'itscale' property?

Simple... Use the AutoCAD command ._ltscale

Or try this:

(getvar 'ltscale)

Another factor to check for is insertion scale. If your block is in inches and you insert it into a drawing using feet, it's effectively 12 times bigger (or is that smaller?). Linetypes don't appear if the length of the line is shorter than the calculated linetype segment length, and they may not be apparent if the segment length is very small.

Great point, CyberAngel.

Simple... Use the AutoCAD command ._ltscale

 

Or try this:

(getvar 'ltscale)

Hey there Renderman,

Just wanted to let you know that your advice worked perfectly.

Goodness knows how you guys know all this stuff - there's no way I would have solved this one without your help.

Thanks heaps mate, your a legend!!

Ber

Glad to help.