AutoCAD

How To Hide Wipeout In AutoCAD?

Understanding Wipeout in AutoCAD

Wipeout is a useful command in AutoCAD that allows users to hide parts of their drawings without deleting them. This command creates an invisible area that layers over objects, creating a clean, crisp look for presentations or layouts. To ensure a smooth experience while using wipeout, mastering the methods to hide or manipulate these areas is essential.

How to Create a Wipeout in AutoCAD

  1. Initiate the Wipeout Command: Type WI in the command bar and press Enter, or navigate to the Draw menu and select Wipeout.
  2. Define the Wipeout Area: Click to designate the boundary of the area you want to wipe out. You can use lines or a polyline to refine your selection.
  3. Complete the Wipeout: After defining the area, press Enter to finalize the command. Your selected area will now appear hidden against the background.

How to Hide a Wipeout Boundary

To hide the boundary of a wipeout, adjustments must be made in the command settings. Follow these steps:

  1. Access the Wipeout Command: Select the wipeout object you wish to modify.
  2. Command Line Settings: With the wipeout selected, type F for Frame in the command line.
  3. Adjust the Frame Option: Input Off to conceal the frame of the wipeout. Choosing On will display the frame, allowing for visibility of the wiped area.

Removing Wipeouts in AutoCAD

If you need to remove wipeouts entirely, follow this step-by-step process:

  1. Select the Wipeout: Click on the wipeout object you wish to delete.
  2. Use the Erase Command: Type ERASE in the command line or right-click and select Erase from the context menu.
  3. Finalize the Deletion: Confirm the deletion by clicking Enter.

Hiding Multiple Wipeouts at Once

To hide multiple wipeouts efficiently, you can use the following approach:

  1. Select all Wipeouts: Hold the Shift key and click on each wipeout to include them in your selection, or use a selection box to encompass all wipeouts.
  2. Right-Click Menu: After selecting, right-click and select Hide Selected Objects from the menu.
  3. Verify Visibility: Ensure the wipeouts are now invisible in your drawing.

Additional Techniques for Wipeout Management

  • Using Isolate Command: You can isolate objects in your drawing using the Isolate Objects command. This method temporarily hides all other objects except the selected ones, making it easier to manage wipeouts.
  • Polylines Conversion: For more complex designs, converting a polyline into a wipeout can be beneficial. Use the WIPEOUT command followed by selecting a polyline boundary.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. Can I adjust the color of the wipeout area?
Wipeouts are designed to match the background color of the drawing. Adjusting the background color will change the appearance of the wipeout area.

2. Is it possible to recover a wiped-out area?
Yes, if the wipeout boundary is set to visible (with the frame option On), you can modify or remove the wipeout easily without any loss of the original content.

3. How do I ensure that my wipeout appears correctly in layouts?
When working in layout tabs, make sure to test with various viewport options. Each viewport might require adjustments to utilize wipeouts effectively.

About the author

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang

Wei Zhang is a renowned figure in the CAD (Computer-Aided Design) industry in Canada, with over 30 years of experience spanning his native China and Canada. As the founder of a CAD training center, Wei has been instrumental in shaping the skills of hundreds of technicians and engineers in technical drawing and CAD software applications. He is a certified developer with Autodesk, demonstrating his deep expertise and commitment to staying at the forefront of CAD technology. Wei’s passion for education and technology has not only made him a respected educator but also a key player in advancing CAD methodologies in various engineering sectors. His contributions have significantly impacted the way CAD is taught and applied in the professional world, bridging the gap between traditional drafting techniques and modern digital solutions.