Understanding Wipeout in AutoCAD
Wipeout is a command in AutoCAD that allows users to conceal portions of a drawing without actually deleting any underlying objects. When created, a wipeout acts as a solid shape in the background color of your workspace, effectively masking what lies beneath it. This feature is especially useful for cleaning up presentations, annotations, or when integrating blocks that require a clear and unobtrusive background.
Choosing the Right Layer for Wipeout
When creating a wipeout, it is essential to place it on a layer that is set to plot. Ensure that this layer is turned on to guarantee visibility in printed documents. For instance, using layer 0 for wipeouts within blocks ensures that the wipeouts inherit the layer attributes upon insertion, thus preserving the drawing’s organization and plotting integrity.
Creating a Wipeout Polyline
To initiate a wipeout in AutoCAD, you can use one of several methods:
- Click the Wipeout tool icon located in the Draw toolbar.
- Select Wipeout from the Draw menu.
- Type the command “wipeout” into the command bar and hit Enter.
After activating the wipeout command, you’ll need to define an area by selecting points around the space you wish to conceal; this is typically done by drawing a closed polyline.
Managing Wipeout Frames
Once a wipeout is created, you may want to manage its visibility. The default setting for the wipeout command displays a frame around the wipeout area. To hide this frame, enter the command line options during execution. If you select the “Frames” option, using the “Off” setting will hide the frame, while “On” will make it visible, helping you manage your drawing more effectively.
Removing Wipeout Frames in AutoCAD
To completely eliminate a wipeout frame from your drawing, you can employ the keyboard shortcut Ctrl+H. This action toggles the visibility of wipeout frames. Alternatively, you can set the ‘Pickstyle’ value to zero before selecting and deleting the wipeout, ensuring a clean workspace.
Finding the Wipeout Command
To quickly access the wipeout command, enter “TFRAMES” in the command line. This command allows you to toggle the wipeout frames on and off, enhancing your workflow and enabling you to focus on the elements that matter most in your drawing.
Wipeout Applications for Furniture
To utilize wipeout effectively when working with furniture layouts, initiate by selecting the block reference. Right-click it to enter the Block Editor. Within this editor, use the WIPEOUT command to overlay the background for the keynotes of your furniture. After positioning the wipeout, adjust its display order by right-clicking the wipeout, navigating to Basic Modify Tools, and selecting Display Order, then Send to Back. Save your changes upon exiting the Block Editor to finalize your adjustments.
Working with Wipeouts and Shapes
Many users inquire about the creation of circular wipeouts. Note that AutoCAD does not allow for direct creation of wipeouts using circular shapes. To achieve a circular effect, employ the POLYGON command, ensuring your resulting polygon is closed without any arcs, which will effectively serve as your wipeout shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I convert existing objects into a wipeout?
Existing objects cannot be directly converted into a wipeout. Instead, you need to create a new wipeout using the wipeout command, drawing the area manually based on your requirements.
2. Will wipeouts affect the performance of large drawings?
Wipeouts can slightly affect performance, especially in large drawings with numerous objects. It’s prudent to use wipeouts judiciously to maintain optimal performance and ensure smoother navigation within your project.
3. How can I ensure the wipeout is accurately placed?
Accurate placement of a wipeout requires careful selection of points while defining the area. Utilize object snaps and grid settings to enhance precision during placement. Testing the wipeout’s effect by previewing before finalizing it is also recommended.
