How to group objects together so they move as one in BricsCAD?
Short Answer
Yes — in BricsCAD, the fastest and most common way to group objects together so they move as one is to create a block with the BLOCK command. Select the objects, define a base point, and save them as a single block reference. Limitation: individual parts are no longer edited independently unless you edit the block.
What You Need to Know Before
Warning: If you use a block to make objects move together in BricsCAD, every inserted instance of that same block can be affected when you edit its definition. Also, locked layers or nested objects inside external references can prevent proper selection or editing.
How to Group Objects Together So They Move as One in BricsCAD
Command: BLOCK
Shortcut: B
Quick Steps:
- On the Ribbon, go to Insert > Block Definition panel, then start BLOCK.
- Enter a block name, click Pick point to define the base point, and select the objects you want to move as one.
- In the dialog, set Objects to Convert to block, confirm options like Allow exploding if needed, then click OK.
Variables & Settings
Key Setting: Allow exploding
Expert Setting: If Allow exploding is enabled when creating the block, users can later break the block back into separate objects with EXPLODE. Leave it off when you want tighter control and more consistent drafting standards.
Why it Fails
- Cause 1 (Geometry): The wrong base point was chosen, so the grouped objects move from an unexpected grip or insertion point.
- Cause 2 (Layers/Locks): One or more selected objects are on locked layers, which can block selection, conversion, or later edits.
- Cause 3 (Command/Logic): Users create a group-like selection but do not convert it into a block, so objects still behave as separate entities in many workflows.
Quick Fix & Best Practice
- Quick Fix: Use BEDIT to edit the block definition or recreate it with BLOCK using the correct base point.
- Manager’s Verdict: Use blocks when objects must reliably move, copy, and standardize as one unit across drawings. Avoid this method if each object needs frequent independent editing.
FAQ
Can I ungroup a block in BricsCAD?
Yes — use EXPLODE if the block was created with exploding allowed.
Is a block better than selecting multiple objects every time?
Yes — a block is faster, cleaner, and more reliable for repeated movement and placement.
Can I still edit objects inside the block?
Yes — use BEDIT or Refedit to modify the block contents.
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