Get the information of multiple blocks ( tape or sprinkler)

[jeremyN]

Hi,
In order to design a tape irrigated field with all latterals connected to the same control valve but with laterals positionned vertically AND horizontally, I had to use many "tape block" with all their submains connected to the same control valve.
This instead of one "tape block entity".
Now the hydraulics works.
But, the issue is that I would gather all those small "tape blocks" which are not "tape block entities" into 1 single entity in order to LABEL it and so, get all information contained in the label (as I can do for a single "tape block entity").

So the questions are:
1) how to gather blocks into an entity ( and so be able to label this entity)
2) if I have many "tape block entities": where can I found the TOTAL area an TOTAL lenght of tapes of those entities? In other words, how to summarize data from different entities?

Thank a lot.

[Dan Crosby]

Hi Jeremy,

There is no way to do all of this using the labelling system, although the area and total length can be easily determined if you simply want to know the values. The easiest way to do this would be to use a multiple and/or filtered selection whilst showing the Length or Area in the status bar info panel. You could use tape block entities for all the small blocks and label each one individually, but that wouldn't amalgamate the results.

For a total area, you can draw an "Irrigation Area" object around your region of interest and label this with the Irrigation Block label settings.

Alternatively you can use the 'Water Requirements' Management report to see the areas and the BOM reports to see the total length of lateral.

Regards,
|
Dan

[jeremyN]

Hi Dan, Thank's for your answer.
So if it's impossible to label a "block" which is not "entity" to get its summary (BOM and hydraulic results) what is the goal of this function "block"?

[Dan Crosby]

Hi Jeremy,

Generally, most designers will use the block entities tool where possible. The block tool is just a quick way to automatically create a lot of separate evenly spaced laterals that you can then link to your system manually (e.g., using the Cut Pipe tool). In some situations, separate entities are more flexible than block entities.

Note that, of course, BOM and hydraulic results are still available for the separate entities via the reports or "Object Info" - but there are fewer options when it comes to 'global' labelling. These reports are generally grouped/sorted by zone - that is, via the valve to which the items are connected. Remember also that you can get BOM reports for a selection by selecting the entities first before running the report.