How to Use Wipeout Frame in AutoCAD

Understanding Wipeout Frames in AutoCAD

Wipeout frames in AutoCAD are a powerful tool designed to obscure portions of a drawing without removing the actual objects. This command creates an area that blends seamlessly with the background color of the drawing, allowing for a cleaner presentation where needed.

Steps to Use the Wipeout Command

1. Initiate the Wipeout Command

   • You can start the Wipeout command by typing WI in the command line or by navigating to the Draw drop-down menu and selecting Wipeout.

2. Define the Area to be Wiped Out

   • Move your cursor to select the area you wish to cover. Click to set the initial point and continue clicking to outline the perimeter of the section to be wiped out.

3. Finalizing the Wipeout

   • After you finish defining the boundary, press Enter to execute the command. The area within your defined perimeter will now appear hidden.

4. Using a Polyline for Precision

   • Alternatively, you can create a Wipeout from an existing polyline. Simply enter the command, select the polyline, and AutoCAD will convert the shape into a wipeout area.

Configuring Wipeout Frames

The visibility of wipeout frames can be adjusted based on your drawing needs. By default, wipeout frames are visible. Follow these steps to hide or show them:

1. Access the Command Line

   • Enter the TFRAMES command into the command line. This toggles the display of wipeout frames on or off.

2. Choose Frame Visibility

   • If you want the frames to remain hidden while working, set the option to “Off”. To see the frames again and recover the wiped-out area if needed, set it to “On”.

Masking Objects with Wipeout

When you want to cover certain details in your drawing, masking is essential:

1. Select the Wipeout Tool

   • Go to the Annotate tab and find the Markup panel. Choose Wipeout from the available options.

2. Outline the Masking Area

   • Click to define the boundary of what you want to mask. You can also utilize existing closed polylines by entering P and selecting the polyline.

3. Complete the Command

   • Press Enter once you’ve outlined the area to finalize the masking effect.

Removing a Wipeout in AutoCAD

When it’s time to delete a wipeout:

1. Select the Wipeout Object

   • Click on the wipeout you wish to remove.

2. Use the Delete Command

   • Press Delete on your keyboard, or use Ctrl + H if your Pickstyle is set to zero. This ensures that the wipeout is completely removed from the drawing.

Creating a Wipeout with Curved Objects

For more intricate designs, you may find the need to use arcs or circles:

1. Create a Closed Polyline

   • Use the POLYGON command and set the number of sides to 36 to simulate a circle that you can use for a wipeout.

2. Apply the Wipeout Command

   • After forming the accurate shape, initiate the Wipeout command, select the polyline, and you’ll create a wipeout that conforms to the curves of your drawing.

FAQ

What is the purpose of using a Wipeout in AutoCAD?
Wipeouts serve to hide parts of your drawing that might be cluttered or not necessary for your presentation, making it easier to focus on specific elements.

Can I convert other objects to Wipeouts?
Yes, you can convert closed shapes like polylines into Wipeouts, allowing for versatile application across various drawing elements.

Is there a way to undo a Wipeout command?
If you need to revert a wipeout effect, simply select the wipeout and delete it, or toggle the Wipeout frame to “On” to view and manage it more easily.