How To Fix 37143 - Unable to define screen element in loop block

SAP Error Message - Details

• Message type: E = Error

• Message class: 37 - Screen Painter

• Message number: 143

• Message text: Unable to define screen element in loop block

What causes this issue?

You attempted to create a screen field which is supposed to start at
the position marked by the cursor. However, although it is in a free
space, the cursor is inside a loop block.
You cannot create any type of screen field in a loop block for
subscreens, pushbuttons, boxes and controls.

How to fix this error?

The cursor position which defines the top left corner of the screen
field must be outside any loop blocks or loop repetition blocks.

Error message extract from SAP system. Copyright SAP SE.

Smart SAP Assistant

• What is the cause and solution for SAP error message 37143 - Unable to define screen element in loop block ?

  The SAP error message 37143: Unable to define screen element in loop block typically occurs in the context of screen programming, particularly when using the Screen Painter or when defining screen elements in a loop block in an ABAP program. This error indicates that there is an issue with how screen elements are defined or referenced within a loop structure.
  Cause:
  
  Improper Definition of Screen Elements: The screen elements (like input fields, buttons, etc.) may not be properly defined or may be referenced incorrectly within a loop block.
  Loop Block Misconfiguration: The loop block may not be set up correctly, leading to confusion in how the screen elements are rendered or processed.
  Dynamic Screen Elements: If you are trying to create dynamic screen elements within a loop, the system may not be able to resolve them correctly.
  Screen Attributes: The attributes of the screen elements may not be compatible with the loop structure.
  
  Solution:
  
  Check Screen Element Definitions: Ensure that all screen elements are properly defined in the screen layout. Make sure that they are not being defined multiple times or in a way that conflicts with the loop structure.
  Review Loop Structure: Verify that the loop block is correctly structured. Ensure that the loop is not trying to create or reference screen elements in a way that is not supported.
  Use Proper Field Symbols: If you are using field symbols or dynamic programming techniques, ensure that they are correctly defined and that the screen elements are being referenced properly.
  Avoid Dynamic Creation: If possible, avoid dynamically creating screen elements within a loop. Instead, define all necessary elements statically in the screen layout and use the loop to populate data.
  Debugging: Use debugging tools to step through the code and identify where the error occurs. This can help pinpoint the exact line or element causing the issue.
  
  Related Information:
  
  SAP Documentation: Refer to the official SAP documentation for screen programming and the Screen Painter for more detailed guidelines on defining screen elements.
  ABAP Programming Guidelines: Review best practices for ABAP programming, especially regarding screen handling and dynamic programming.
  SAP Community: Engage with the SAP Community forums to see if others have encountered similar issues and what solutions they have found.
  
  If the problem persists after checking these areas, consider reaching out to SAP support or consulting with an experienced ABAP developer for further assistance.