Creating blocks is a useful part of working in AutoCAD, particularly if you're regularly using the same types of objects in your drawings. But creating a new block from scratch can take time. You need to draw the geometry, check the dimensions and turn it into something you can reuse.
Block Generate with AI takes a different approach. Available as a Tech Preview in AutoCAD on the web, it allows you to describe the 2D block you need and generate editable geometry from that description.
How Does Block Generate with AI work?
Instead of drawing the block yourself, you describe what you want using natural language.
For example, you could ask for:
- A three-seater sofa with three cushions
- A round table with four chairs
- A double vanity with round bowls
- A double door with equal leaves and 90-degree swing arcs
AutoCAD then generates a 2D block based on your description. The idea is fairly simple: describe the object, review the result and then make any changes you need before using it in your drawing.
The Generated Block is Editable
One of the useful things to remember is that this isn't about generating a finished drawing and leaving it as it is.
The resulting block is editable, so you can adjust the geometry to suit your project. That's particularly important when working with CAD. You may need to change dimensions, move elements or make other adjustments to meet your drawing standards.
As this is still a Tech Preview, Autodesk notes that generated geometry may need some editing. The feature is still being developed, so the results won't necessarily be perfect every time.
You Can Specify Dimensions
The feature has also been updated to make generated blocks more useful in real-world workflows.
You can include a specific size in your description and AutoCAD can apply those dimensions to the generated block. This means you can give the AI more information about what you actually need, rather than relying solely on a general description.
For example, rather than simply asking for a table, you could specify the size you need as part of your description. This can give you a more useful starting point and reduce the amount of editing needed afterwards.
Choose Where the Block is Placed
You can also tell Autodesk Assistant which layer you want the generated block placed on. This is a useful addition if you're working with drawings that follow a particular layer structure. It means you can include more information in your description and keep the generated geometry organised within your drawing.
AI Doesn't Replace Checking Your Drawing
It's worth keeping expectations realistic.
Block Generate with AI is designed to give you a starting point, rather than remove the need to check your work.
Generated geometry can still need adjustments, particularly where dimensions or specific project requirements are involved. Autodesk describes the feature as a Tech Preview, meaning it is still being developed and may change over time.
As with any AI-assisted CAD workflow, it's worth checking the result before using it in a finished drawing.
Getting Started with Block Generate with AI
Block Generate with AI is available as a Tech Preview in AutoCAD on the web. Autodesk has also made the feature accessible through Autodesk Assistant.
If you're trying it for the first time, start with a fairly straightforward object and be specific about what you want. Include useful information such as the object's shape, number of elements and dimensions where appropriate.
Then review the result and edit it before adding it to your drawing or block library.
As Autodesk continues to develop the feature, the results and capabilities may change.
Looking to Get More from AutoCAD?
AI is becoming a bigger part of AutoCAD, but it's only one part of the wider set of tools available.
At TMS CADCentre, we can help with Autodesk software, AutoCAD training and technical support, whether you're looking to improve existing workflows or are considering how newer AutoCAD features could fit into your business.
If you're not sure which AutoCAD tools could help your team work more efficiently, get in touch with our team and we can talk through your requirements.
