Understanding Wipeout in AutoCAD
Wipeout is a powerful command in AutoCAD that allows users to remove or hide specific areas in a drawing. This is particularly useful when you want to simplify complex designs or clarify overlapping elements. By creating a wipeout, you can effectively ‘erase’ sections of your drawing without deleting them completely, thereby maintaining the underlying geometry.
Steps to Create a Wipeout Shape
1. **Access the Wipeout Command**: Start by opening your AutoCAD 2025 application. Use the command line to enter “WIPEOUT” or navigate to the ‘Draw’ menu and select “Wipeout.”
2. **Define the Wipeout Boundary**: After initiating the command, click to specify points on your drawing. You must outline the exact area you want to hide. Ensure that you trace the contour accurately to create a precise wipeout.
3. **Finalize the Wipeout Command**: Once you’ve specified the points, press the Enter key to apply the wipeout. You’ll notice that the selected area is now blanked out.
Creating Wipeouts with Curved Edges
When working with curves, you may want to create a wipeout that follows a specific shape rather than a standard rectangular area.
1. **Draw a Polyline**: Start by using the Polyline tool to create a continuous curve that outlines the desired shape. To do this, select the Polyline tool from the ‘Draw’ toolbar and click to define various points along the curve.
2. **Convert Polyline to Wipeout**: With the polyline drawn, go back to the command line and type “WIPEOUT” to initiate the wipeout command. Choose the option to select an existing polyline when prompted, which will make it easier to create a wipeout that conforms to your curved design.
3. **Complete the Command**: Once again, hit Enter to finalize the command, resulting in a smooth wipeout that matches the polyline curve.
Editing Wipeouts
Modifying wipeouts can be necessary when adjustments to the design are needed.
1. **Select the Wipeout**: Click on the wipeout boundary that you wish to edit. The boundary will highlight, revealing control points you can manipulate.
2. **Adjust the Boundaries**: Use the grips that appear on the wipeout to drag and adjust the points to refine the shape as necessary. For curves, ensure that you maintain the overall curvature and design intent.
3. **Update the Wipeout**: After making the adjustments, confirm the changes by clicking elsewhere in the drawing or pressing Enter.
Show or Hide Wipeout Boundaries
Wipeout boundaries are, by default, displayed, which can sometimes clutter your drawing.
1. **Access the Command Line**: Type “FRAME” into the command line and press Enter.
2. **Toggle Visibility**: You will be asked whether you want to turn on or off the frames. Selecting “Off” will hide the wipeout frames, creating a cleaner appearance in your drawing.
3. **Confirm Changes**: After making your selection, press Enter. Now the boundaries will be hidden, simplifying the visual presentation of your design.
FAQs
**1. Can I create a wipeout with an irregular shape?**
Yes, by using the Polyline tool to create an irregular outline and then converting it to a wipeout, you can effectively create a custom shape.
**2. How do I restore a wiped-out area?**
To restore the visibility of a wiped-out area, you can toggle the frame visibility back on through the command line using the “FRAME” command.
**3. What should I do if my wipeout isn’t appearing?**
If your wipeout doesn’t display as expected, ensure that your layers are turned on and thawed, and confirm that your view settings are not hiding any objects.
