How to Do a Wipeout in AutoCAD?

Understanding the Wipeout Command in AutoCAD

The Wipeout command in AutoCAD is a powerful tool designed to help users create invisible areas within their drawings. This command allows you to obscure specific parts of a drawing without permanently deleting any elements. The resulting wipeout areas appear as transparent sections that match the background color of the drawing, effectively masking whatever lies underneath them.

Steps to Create a Wipeout in AutoCAD

1. Launch the Wipeout Command

   • You can initiate the Wipeout command by typing WI in the command line, or by navigating through the Draw menu to select Wipeout. If you prefer graphical interfaces, you can find the Wipeout tool button in the Draw toolbar.

2. Define the Wipeout Boundary

   • Once the command is activated, you will be prompted to select points that outline the area you wish to hide. Click on the drawing area to specify the corners or edges of the region you want to wipe out. You can also utilize a closed polyline for a more precise shape.
   • After you finish selecting points, press Enter to finalize the boundary of the wipeout.

3. Adjusting Wipeout Settings

   • If you want to manage visibility settings of the wipeout frame, you can use the command TFRAMES. By entering this command, you can easily toggle the visibility of wipeout frames, which can help you control what is displayed in your drawing.

Best Practices for Using Wipeouts

• Layer Considerations

  • It is crucial to place wipeouts on a layer that is intended for plotting. Make sure the selected layer is active to ensure that the wipeout behaves as expected. For blocks, placing wipeouts on layer 0 allows them to inherit the properties of whatever layer they are inserted into.

• Fine-Tuning Wipeout Edges

  • For cleaner results, especially with complex shapes, use polylines or simple geometric figures. This precision helps prevent unexpected edges around the wipeout area.

• Managing Boundary Visibility

  • If you need to manage the visibility of wipeout boundaries, you can enter the command while selecting the frames and specify options such as On, Off, or Display But Not Plot to control their appearance in the drawing.

How to Hide Wipeout Boundaries

If specific boundaries are visible and you wish to hide them:

1. Access the Wipeout Menus

   • Go to the Annotate tab and select the Markup panel, then choose “Wipeout.”

2. Modify Frame Visibility

   • At the prompt, type F for Frames. Then select from the options: On, Off, or Display But Not Plot based on your requirements.

Getting Rid of a Wipeout

To remove a wipeout from your drawing:

1. Select the Wipeout

   • Click on the wipeout area to select it.

2. Use the Delete Command

   • You can simply hit the Delete key on your keyboard, or use the combination Ctrl + H to hide it first, ensuring it gets removed without accidental selections.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use Wipeout for shapes other than rectangles?
Yes, you can create wipeouts using closed polylines, allowing for any shape you want, including complex designs.

2. How do I create a circular wipeout?
To create a circular wipeout, draw a polygon with many sides (e.g., 36) to simulate a circle, then use the Wipeout command on that polygon.

3. Is it possible to print with wipeouts hidden?
Yes, you can set wipeouts to be “Display But Not Plot,” allowing them to appear in your drawing without showing when printed.