Understanding Wipeout in AutoCAD Xrefs
Wipeout is a powerful tool in AutoCAD used to obscure parts of drawings, allowing for a cleaner presentation of specific areas. When applied to Xrefs (external references), it can enhance clarity and focus on the elements that matter most. This guide outlines the process of using wipeout within Xrefs and provides useful tips to maximize its effectiveness.
1. Accessing the Wipeout Command
Begin by initiating the Wipeout command. This can be done in two primary ways:
- Command Line: Type wi and hit Enter to activate the wipeout command.
- Menu Selection: Navigate to the Draw menu and select Wipeout from the available options.
2. Defining the Wipeout Area
Once you have activated the Wipeout command, you’ll need to define the area you want to obscure.
- Selecting Boundaries: Click through the points on your drawing to outline the area you wish to hide. This creates a boundary that the wipeout will fill in.
- Using Polylines: Alternatively, for more complex shapes, you can use a polyline to specify your wipeout boundary. This allows for greater flexibility in what you want to cover.
3. Finalizing the Wipeout
After defining your desired area:
- Press Enter to finalize the wipeout. The selected area will now appear void or hidden from view within your drawing.
- If you wish to modify or adjust the wipeout later, you can select it and use the Properties palette or command line options.
4. Managing Wipeout Frames
By default, wipeout objects may display frames that can be distracting in your final presentation. To manage these frames:
- Go to the Annotate tab, locate the Markup panel, and find the Wipeout option.
- At the prompt, enter F for Frames.
- You can choose between options: On (to display the frames), Off (to hide the frames), or Display But Not Plot (to show frames in the editor, but not in plots).
5. Using Wipeout with Xrefs
Wipeouts can be particularly useful when dealing with Xrefs. However, there are a few key points to keep in mind:
- To apply a wipeout to an area of an Xref, ensure that the Xref is attached and visible in your drawing.
- Once the wipeout is created, it will function the same as with any other object, effectively hiding the designated area of the Xref.
- If edits are needed to the Xref, they must be made in the original file; the wipeout will retain its settings based on what has been established in the current drawing.
6. Troubleshooting Wipeout Issues
Occasionally, issues may arise with wipeouts not displaying as expected. Here are common causes and solutions:
- Viewports and Layers: Ensure that you are working in the correct viewport and that the layers containing the wipeout and Xref are not locked.
- Visual Styles: Check the visual styles applied to your drawing. Some styles may affect how wipeouts appear.
- Recreate the Wipeout: If a wipeout is not working correctly, consider deleting it and recreating it to ensure it behaves as desired.
FAQs
1. Can I edit the area of a wipeout after it’s created?
Yes, you can select the wipeout and use the Properties palette or command options to modify its dimensions or position.
2. What happens if I change the color of the Xref?
Changing the color of the Xref may impact the visual appearance of the wipeout overlay. If the Xref’s geometry becomes too complex or colorful, the wipeout may need adjustments.
3. Are there any limitations when using wipeouts with Xrefs?
While wipeouts work effectively with Xrefs, remember that any changes to the original Xref will not reflect immediately unless the Xref is updated in your drawing. Always ensure to refresh or reload Xrefs when modifications are made.
