Make Design Spreadsheet with AutoCAD Block

In summary, there is a new application being developed in AutoCAD that allows blocks to act as design spreadsheets. The application uses attributes as variables and custom formulas, and automatically updates other attributes and dynamic properties when an attribute is edited. A demo version is available for download and the developer is seeking feedback and suggestions. While AutoCAD may be on its way out, this application could still be useful for engineers who use AutoCAD daily.
  • #1
linhoreka
5
0
I am developing an application in AutoCAD. Here is how the AutoCAD Block - Design Spreadsheet works:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPqcwg0lzJo"
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZPqcwg0lzJo

Here is the How-to-create tutorial video:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OI977Qw2G-4"

The idea is making AutoCAD block acts as a design spreadsheet (like Microsolf Excel):
1. You create the block with attributes as variables
2. You add your custom formulas to the block with a text editor.

Then, everytime you edit an attribute, other attributes and the block's dynamic properties would change accordingly as the formulas executed.

Here is the demo version http://www.mediafire.com/?0hrzdab76ce92yv

If there is anyone interest in my application, please let me know and give me some advise. Then we can share the application once it is done !
Thanks in advance !
 
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  • #2
Commercially I can't see there being any demand for this. AutoCAD is on it's way out and is being replaced by parametric design tables. However there are still many engineers out there that still use AutoCAD daily (including me) that this would be a nice feature.

The use of blocks to act as a parametric design sheet is pretty neat. I like how it does the bending moment and shear plots (and other stuff) for you. I use Mathcad with the Roarks plug into achieve for the same thing.

You've done a really good job, it's got to be useful for someone out there.
 
  • #3
Thanks, I am trying to make the best out of AutoCAD and VBA. Hope AutoCAD would never really out and replaced.
 

1. What is AutoCAD Block and how does it relate to design spreadsheets?

AutoCAD Block is a type of reusable content in the AutoCAD software that can be used to create designs such as drawings, symbols, or text. In design spreadsheets, AutoCAD Blocks can be inserted to represent objects or elements in the design.

2. How do I create a design spreadsheet with AutoCAD Block?

To create a design spreadsheet with AutoCAD Block, you will first need to create the design in AutoCAD. Then, you can insert the desired AutoCAD Blocks into the spreadsheet using the "Insert Block" function. You can also use formulas and calculations to manipulate the data in the spreadsheet.

3. Can I customize the AutoCAD Blocks in my design spreadsheet?

Yes, you can customize the AutoCAD Blocks in your design spreadsheet. You can change the size, color, and other properties of the Blocks to match your design. You can also create your own Blocks or download them from online libraries.

4. Is it possible to link the AutoCAD Blocks in my design spreadsheet to the original AutoCAD files?

Yes, it is possible to link the AutoCAD Blocks in your design spreadsheet to the original AutoCAD files. This allows for any changes made to the original files to be automatically reflected in the design spreadsheet, ensuring accuracy and efficiency in the design process.

5. How can I share my design spreadsheet with others who do not have AutoCAD?

If you want to share your design spreadsheet with others who do not have AutoCAD, you can save the spreadsheet in a compatible file format such as PDF or DWG. Alternatively, you can also use the "Export" function in AutoCAD to export the spreadsheet as an image or a web page that can be easily shared with others.

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