AutoCAD

How To Use Wipeout Command In AutoCAD?

Understanding the Wipeout Command in AutoCAD

The Wipeout command in AutoCAD serves to create a mask over specified areas, allowing for the concealment of underlying objects. By employing the current background color as the masking property, users can effectively hide distractions in their drawings. The area masked by the Wipeout command can be defined by using a wipeout frame, which can be toggled on or off during the editing process.

Creating a Wipeout Object

To initiate a wipeout object in AutoCAD, follow these steps:

  1. Open the drawing where you wish to add the wipeout.
  2. Type WIPEOUT in the command line and press Enter.
  3. Choose the option to define the perimeter points by clicking on the drawing area.
  4. Continue clicking until you have outlined the area to be wiped out and then press Enter to finalize the selection.

Incorporating a Wipeout into a Block

If you want to add a wipeout to an existing block:

  1. Select the block reference in your drawing.
  2. Right-click and choose Edit Block to open the Block Editor.
  3. Utilize the WIPEOUT command to create a wipeout shape covering the necessary area within the block.
  4. Select the new wipeout, right-click, and navigate to Basic Modify Tools > Display Order > Send to Back to ensure it masks the intended items.
  5. Save your changes and exit the Block Editor.

Wipeout for Text Objects

To add a wipeout behind text:

  1. Activate the command line and enter WIPEOUT, then press Enter.
  2. Choose the Offset option to adjust the wipeout relative to the text.
  3. To manage the appearance of the wipeout frame, toggle the WIPEOUTFRAME system variable by setting it to 1 (show) or 0 (hide).

Creating a Wipeout from Polylines

To use a polyline for a wipeout:

  1. Start with a closed polyline that outlines the desired area.
  2. Invoke the WIPEOUT command from the command line.
  3. When prompted, select the Polyline option and choose your existing polyline.
  4. Press Enter to complete the mask creation.

Adjusting Wipeout Display Settings

If you need to control the visibility of wipeout frames:

  1. Access the command line and input the WIPEOUT command.
  2. Select the frames option to toggle the appearance by entering the settings for on or off.
  3. View the effects on your drawing accordingly.

Masking Additional Objects

When masking a block or object:

  1. Select the block you want to use as a mask.
  2. Go to the Mask Block Reference tab and find the Modify panel.
  3. Choose Attach Objects and select the object to be masked.
  4. Select a display representation from the options available, then finalize by clicking OK.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How can I customize the appearance of a wipeout frame?
You can toggle the visibility of wipeout frames using the WIPEOUTFRAME system variable. Set it to 1 to display the frames or 0 to hide them.

2. Can I edit a wipeout object once created?
Yes, you can edit a wipeout object. Simply select it and access the properties or modify it using basic editing commands.

3. Is it possible to create a wipeout in shapes other than polylines?
Yes, you can generate wipeouts in various shapes by manually outlining the area with the Wipeout command, or by using existing closed shapes as a guide.

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.