How to Trim Wipeout in AutoCAD?

Understanding Wipeouts in AutoCAD

Wipeouts in AutoCAD are essential tools used to obscure portions of drawings without altering the underlying elements. They create a masked effect, allowing for clearer presentations and focuses on specific areas.

What is a Wipeout?

A wipeout is essentially a shape that removes visibility of objects behind it. Unlike traditional methods of blocking out sections, wipeouts are flexible and can adapt to various shapes, making them invaluable in drafting and design tasks.

How to Create a Wipeout

1. Accessing the Wipeout Tool

   • Open AutoCAD and navigate to the Draw menu.
   • Select Wipeout from the options available.

2. Defining the Area to Wipeout

   • Click to specify the starting point of the wipeout.
   • Continue clicking to outline the perimeter of the area to be obscured.
   • Ensure that the endpoints connect, forming a closed boundary.

3. Completing the Command

   • After outlining the area, press Enter to execute the wipeout.

Trimming Wipeouts in AutoCAD 2025

To effectively trim a wipeout, follow these organized steps:

1. Ensure Wipeout Frame Visibility

   • Enter the command TFRAMES at the prompt to toggle the visibility of wipeout frames. This is crucial as it allows you to see the framed area you wish to modify.

2. Selecting the Wipeout

   • Click to select the wipeout frame that you intend to trim. Make sure the frame is highlighted to confirm selection.

3. Activate the Trim Command

   • Type TRIM or click the Trim tool from the Modify panel.
   • This command allows you to cut away portions of the wipeout frame in conjunction with other geometry.

4. Defining Cutting Edges

   • Select the boundaries (cutting edges) that will dictate where the wipeout frame will be trimmed back. You can use lines, arcs, or other shapes as cutting edges.

5. Trimming the Wipeout

   • After selecting the relevant edges, click on the portion of the wipeout frame you wish to trim. The designated areas will be eliminated according to the edges defined.

6. Ending the Command

   • Press Enter to finalize your trim action, ensuring that the adjustments take effect.

Managing Wipeout Properties

• Adjusting Wipeout Visibility

  • If you need to hide a wipeout temporarily, use the TFRAMES command again to toggle off the visibility. This can help in layer management and when preparing prints.

• Setting Wipeout Attributes

  • Access the properties palette to change the color or transparency of the wipeout, enhancing the visual impact in your layout.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can wipeouts be used in layouts as well?
Yes, wipeouts can be employed in both model space and paper space layouts. Ensure you are in the correct space when creating or editing wipeouts.

2. Are wipeouts affected by layer controls?
Yes, wipeouts adhere to the properties of their current layers. Changing layer properties can therefore impact the appearance of your wipeouts, including color and visibility.

3. Can I convert a wipeout to another type of object?
No, once a wipeout is created, it cannot be directly converted to another object type. However, you can delete it and create a new element as required.