Dynamic Blocks in LusoCAD

With dynamic blocks, you can insert a single block that changes its shape, size or visualisation fluidly, instead of creating individual blocks of the same type with different attributes. This guide covers the fundamental steps for creating and manipulating dynamic blocks, including mirroring, extending, aligning, rotating and defining visibility states.

We present how to use Dynamic Blocks in LusoCAD, by Structural Academy.

1. Creating a Mirroring Function

A mirror function allows you to easily mirror a block. Here's how to assign it:

Open the Block Editor:

• Double-click on the block to open the editor

Add Mirroring Parameters:

• Select the Mirroring Set from the parameter range
• Specify a base reflection point (e.g. the midpoint) and an end point

Assign the Mirroring Action:

• Select the Mirroring Action from the range of actions
• Connect it to the mirror parameter and select all the relevant objects

Save and Test:

• Exit the block editor and check that the block mirrors correctly when activated

2. Using the Extension Function

The extension function allows you to resize a specific part of a block while keeping the other portions intact.

Define the Extension Area:

• Open the block editor and select the Linear Extension Parameter
• Choose the distance and define the extendable portion

Define the Action:

• Assign the Extension Action to the parameter
• Make sure that only the desired parts of the block are included in the extension

Test the Extension:

• Save the changes and check that the extension only affects the defined portion

3. Aligning blocks

The alignment parameters allow the blocks to automatically align with other objects, such as walls.

Select Alignment Parameters:

• Open the block editor and choose the Alignment Parameter
• Define the base point and direction of alignment (e.g. the back of a washbasin against a wall)

Test the alignment:

• Save the block and test how it aligns with other objects in the drawing

4. Add Rotation

The rotation function allows the dynamic blocks to be rotated within a specific angle.

Add a Rotation Parameter:

• Open the block editor and select the Rotation Parameter
• Define the start point of the rotation, radius and angle (e.g. 0 to 180°)

Switch on Action:

• Assign the Rotation Action to the parameter and link it to the objects

Test the rotation:

• Save the block and make sure it rotates as intended

5. Defining Visibility States

Visibility states allow users to toggle the visibility of specific components of the block.

Define Visibility Parameters:

• Open the block editor and select the Visibility Parameter
• Choose a location for the visibility control

Manage Visibility States:

• Open the Visibility Status Manager
• Create multiple states, specifying which objects are visible in each one

Test Visibility:

• Save the block and check that the visibility states work as expected