CAD Blocks

CAD Blocks

CAD blocks are named groups of objects that act as a single 2D or 3D object. Blocks are useful for creating repeated content, such as drawing symbols or standard components. Users can save time by reusing and sharing content rather than re-drawing the same objects for every use. One of the biggest advantages of using CAD blocks for repeated content in drawings is their "togetherness"—where one piece goes, the whole thing goes. The Block Attribute Manager helps control the order of your attributes so that you can enter data in a logical way.

Common Categories of CAD Blocks
You can use the blocks provided with Autodesk software or create your own:

• People
• Trees
• Vehicles
• Furniture
• ADA
• Equipment
• 3D
• Construction Details
• Hatch Patterns

CAD Block Properties
All CAD blocks can make use of the following properties:

With Dynamic Blocks, you can avoid redrawing repetitive standard components, and reduce your cumbersome block libraries, helping you to save time and standardizing drawings. Dynamic Blocks make individual block geometry editable and eliminate the need to define a new block for every variation of shape and size. Use the CAD blocks provided with your AutoCAD® or AutoCAD LT® software, or create your own. Adding attributes or dynamic properties to CAD blocks enables them to accommodate different text strings, shapes, or sizes. 
Discuss Blocks with AutoCAD Users

Featured Autodesk Software Using CAD Blocks

	Autodesk Seek The Autodesk® Seek free* web service enables architects, engineers, and other design professionals to quickly discover, preview, and download branded and generic building information modeling (BIM) files, CAD blocks, drawings, and product specifications directly into their active design sessions in Autodesk® Revit® or AutoCAD® software. Try and Learn More About Seek | For Product Manufacturers
	AutoCAD Design, document and share your drawings accurately and efficiently in the DWG™ file format with a trusted CAD software program. Learn More About AutoCAD | AutoCAD Features
	AutoCAD LT AutoCAD LT® software is built for professional drafting, delivering genuine DWG™ compatibility, reliability, and powerful 2D drawing tools designed to boost your productivity. Learn More About AutoCAD LT | AutoCAD LT Features

Work With Dynamic Blocks in Drawings
A dynamic block has flexibility and intelligence. A dynamic block reference can easily be changed in a drawing while you work. You can manipulate the geometry through custom grips or custom properties. This allows you to adjust the block reference in-place as necessary rather than searching for another block to insert or redefining the existing one.

For example, if you insert a door block reference in a drawing, you might need to change the size of the door while you're editing the drawing. If the block is dynamic and defined to have an adjustable size, you can change the size of the door simply by dragging the custom grip or by specifying a different size in Properties palette. You might also need to change the open angle of the door. The door block might also contain an alignment grip, which allows you to align the door block reference easily to other geometry in the drawing.
Discuss Blocks with AutoCAD Users