How Do You Do Wipeout In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Wipeout Command in AutoCAD

The Wipeout command is a powerful tool within AutoCAD that enables users to create hidden areas in their drawings. This functionality is particularly useful when there’s a need to obscure certain elements without permanently deleting them. By using Wipeout, you can essentially create an area that is the same color as the background, making it appear as though the parts beneath it are invisible.

Steps to Create a Wipeout Region

1. Access the Wipeout Tool:

   • Locate the Wipeout tool button in the Draw toolbar. Alternatively, you can access this command from the Draw menu or by typing Wipeout into the command line and pressing Enter.

2. Select the Points:

   • After activating the tool, AutoCAD will prompt you to define the outline of the wipeout area. Click on points in your drawing to create a closed polygon around the area you wish to hide.
3. Closing the Polygon:
   • To finish creating your wipeout, ensure that you return to your starting point or type C to close the shape. This action will generate an enclosed wipeout boundary.

Layer Management for Wipeouts

For optimal performance and management in your AutoCAD project, it’s critical that the wipeout is placed on a plot-enabled layer. Commonly, users opt to place wipeouts on Layer 0 within a block, allowing them to inherit properties from the layer on which they are inserted. This ensures that elements maintain consistency throughout the project.

Managing Wipeout Boundaries

A common concern with the Wipeout command is the visibility of its boundary frame. By default, the boundary may be visible. If you prefer to hide this boundary:

1. Activate the Wipeout Command:

   • Enter Wipeout again or select it from the toolbar.
2. Adjust Frame Visibility:
   • During the command, you can switch the frame state. Typing Off will hide the frame, while typing On will display it. This feature allows you to toggle the visibility based on your requirements.

Creating Circular Wipeouts

AutoCAD currently does not support creating wipeouts with a circular shape directly. Instead, utilize the POLYGON command to create a multi-segmented shape that approximates a circle:

1. Initiate the POLYGON Command:

   • Type POLYGON in the command line and press Enter.

2. Specify the Number of Sides:

   • To create a round shape, enter a high number of sides (like 32 or more).
3. Draw the Polygon:
   • Follow the prompts to place the polygon in your drawing. This shape can then be used as a wipeout.

Alternative Method to White Out Areas

If your goal is simply to eliminate visibility of certain sections, you can adjust the background color settings:

1. Access Colors Settings:

   • Click on the Colors button within the Windows Elements group.
2. Adjust Background Options:
   • In the Drawing Window Colors dialog, choose 3D parallel projection under the Context settings. Ensure that you select a white color in the Background dropdown.

FAQ

1. Can I change the color of a wipeout?
No, wipeouts are designed to match the background color, so the actual wipeout color cannot be changed. You can change the background color for a different effect.

2. Are wipeouts visible in prints?
If the layer containing the wipeout is set to not plot, the wipeout will not appear in printed documents. Make sure to check your layer properties before printing.

3. What if my wipeout is not hiding the objects properly?
Ensure that the wipeout area encompasses the objects you wish to conceal completely, and make sure the Wipeout frame is set to Off. If issues persist, check layer settings to ensure the wipeout layer is active and plotting.