Tool

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A block is a group of objects in a file that behave as one piece. Blocks can be many different things, including calculation modules and chart types. In general, they are great for work you find yourself repeating.

There are two parts to a block - the inputs and the block definition. The block definition determines what the block does - the calculations, processes, or components. The inputs determine the specific values that the block manipulates.

In the example below, a Steel Tube Properties block definition is used, and the inputs are the values for width, height, and thickness

When you insert a block, you choose the block definition and then set the inputs. Only the inputs are changeable from that block. The calculations are fixed.

Block definitions are created and modified outside of the blocks that use them. When a block definition is modified, all of the blocks that use the definition are changed with it.

There are a few ways to create a block definition, but the easiest is to make a scenario block, which is done using normal Blockpad calculations and features. Scenario blocks are typically used to create your own calculation modules.

Insert a library block:

1. Click Insert Block (or press ctrl+B).
2. In the window that appears, select the library that contains the block definition.
3. On the right side of the window, select the block definition.
4. Click Set Input Values.
5. Type in the input values.
6. Click Insert Block.

Insert a scenario block:

1. Have your calculations ready in a frame or section.
2. Click Insert Block (or press ctrl+B).
3. In the window that appears, select the file that contains the frame or section.
4. On the right side of the window, select the frame or section that contains your calculations.
5. Click Choose Parameters and Outputs.
6. Specify the inputs and outputs.
7. Click Set Input Values.
8. Type in the input values.
9. Click Insert Block.

See also:

• Blocks
• Publish Scenario Block
• Block tables
• Library

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