How to Select Wipeout in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Wipeout Feature in AutoCAD

The Wipeout command in AutoCAD is a powerful tool used to create hidden areas in your drawing. This feature allows you to obscure certain sections of your design without permanently erasing elements. It functions by covering selected areas with an object set to the background color, allowing for a clean and professional appearance.

How to Utilize the Wipeout Command

To effectively use the Wipeout command, follow these steps:

1. Access the Command: Type “WIPEOUT” in the command line and press Enter.
2. Define the Area: Click and drag your cursor to create the boundary for the wipeout. You can also use a closed polyline to specify the area.
3. Complete the Command: Press Enter to execute the wipeout. The specified area will be obscured from view.

Creating a Wipeout from a Polyline

Using a polyline to create a wipeout can offer more precision. Here’s how:

1. Draw the Polyline: Use the Polyline tool to create a closed shape around the desired area.
2. Select the Wipeout Tool: Type “WIPEOUT” in the command line, then choose the option to create a wipeout from the defined polyline.
3. Confirm the Wipeout: Execute the command by pressing Enter, and the area will be hidden.

Adjusting Wipeout Frames

Wipeout frames can be toggled on or off to assess your design more effectively:

1. Activate the Wipeout Command: Type “WIPEOUT” in the command line.
2. Toggle Frames: Input “F” for Frames, followed by “ON” or “OFF” based on your needs. Alternatively, you can enter “TFRAMES” to toggle wipeout frames directly.

Incorporating Wipeouts into Blocks

To add a wipeout to a block within AutoCAD:

1. Edit the Block: Select the block reference, right-click, and choose to edit it in the Block Editor.
2. Insert Wipeout: Use the WIPEOUT command to create a wipeout area that will act as a mask in your block.
3. Adjust Z-Order: Select the wipeout, then right-click and navigate to Basic Modify Tools, select Display Order, and choose Send to Back to ensure the underlying block is visible.
4. Save Changes: Finalize your edits and close the Block Editor.

Creating Wipeouts with Arcs

If your design includes curved shapes, you can create wipeouts utilizing arcs:

1. Draw a Closed Shape: Enter the POLYGON command and set the number of sides to 36 to create a circular polyline.
2. Execute the Wipeout Command: Use the WIPEOUT command and select the newly created polyline as the boundary.
3. Finalize the Command: Press Enter to complete the wipeout.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the benefits of using wipeouts in AutoCAD?

Wipeouts allow for the effective concealment of distracting elements in your design, maintaining a clean presentation without the need for permanent deletions of objects.

Can wipeouts affect the performance of my drawing?

While wipeouts are designed to streamline your views, excessive use in large drawings may slow performance slightly. However, the benefits of clarity often outweigh potential drawbacks.

How do I eliminate a wipeout from my drawing?

Select the wipeout area and simply delete it like any other object in AutoCAD. You can also use the command line to input “WIPEOUT” followed by “D” for Delete if needed.