How To Use Wipeout Option In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Wipeout Function in AutoCAD

Wipeout is a practical feature within AutoCAD that allows users to mask certain areas of a drawing without deleting the objects that are being obscured. This command creates a polygon shape that takes on the background color of your drawing, effectively hiding elements behind it. By utilizing the Wipeout function, you can streamline your workflow and enhance the clarity of your drawings.

How to Create a Wipeout for a Circle in AutoCAD

1. Initiate the Polygon Command:

   • Type POLYGON into the command line and press Enter.

2. Specify the Number of Sides:

   • When prompted, enter 36. This will create a polyline that closely resembles a circle.

3. Use the Wipeout Command:

   • Access the Wipeout feature, and when prompted, select the polyline option.
   • Click on the closed polyline created in the previous step.

4. Finalize the Wipeout:

   • Press Enter to complete the command. The area inside the circle will now be masked.

Converting a Polyline into a Wipeout

To transform a polyline into a Wipeout:

1. Select the Wipeout Tool:

   • You can find the Wipeout option in the Draw toolbar.

2. Use the Command Bar:

   • Alternatively, type WIPEOUT in the command line and hit Enter.

3. Follow the Prompts:

   • Select the polyline you wish to convert, and the Wipeout will be created accordingly.

Adding Wipeout to Text

If you want to mask text in your drawing:

1. Activate the Wipeout Command:

   • Type WIPEOUT in the command line and press Enter.

2. Select the Offset Option:

   • This will allow you to create a masking area around the text.

3. Control Wipeout Frame Visibility:

   • Adjust the WIPEOUTFRAME system variable by toggling it between 1 (visible) and 0 (invisible) to manage the appearance of the wipeout frame.

Hiding the Wipeout Frame

To prevent the wipeout frame from displaying:

1. Navigate to the Annotate Tab:

   • Locate the Markup panel and choose Wipeout.

2. Input Frame Options:

   • When prompted, type F for Frames.

3. Choose Visibility Settings:

   • You can switch the settings to On, Off, or Display But Not Plot according to your needs.

Steps to Use the Wipeout Command

1. Access the Wipeout Tool:

   • Enter the command WI or locate it in the Draw drop-down menu.

2. Define the Area:

   • Click to specify the boundaries of the area to mask. Move your cursor to trace the outline as needed.

3. Complete the Command:

   • Press Enter once the area has been defined, and the specified area will be wiped out.

Masking a Shape Using Wipeout

To mask a specific shape:

1. Start the Wipeout Command:

   • Go to the Annotate tab and select Wipeout from the Markup panel.

2. Outline the Perimeter:

   • Click to specify points that outline the masking area. If using a polyline, ensure it is closed and consists of line segments only.

3. End the Command:

   • Press Enter to finalize the operation.

What is XClip and How to Use It

XClip is another powerful command in AutoCAD:

1. Invoke the Command:

   • Type XCLIP into the command line and press Enter.

2. Select an Object:

   • Choose an xref or block that you wish to clip.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I change the color of the Wipeout?
Yes, the color of the wipeout is determined by the background color of your drawing. To enhance visibility, you can modify the drawing background color through the Display Options.

2. Is there a limit to the complexity of shapes I can wipe out?
While Wipeout is versatile, it is best suited for closed polylines or simple shapes. Complex objects may lead to unexpected results.

3. How can I ensure my Wipeout masks do not affect plotting?
Set the Wipeout frame to “Display But Not Plot” by following the steps mentioned in the “Hiding the Wipeout Frame” section. This setting ensures that the mask appears in the drawing for visual clarity but does not print.