How Wipeout in AutoCAD Viewport?

Understanding Wipeouts in AutoCAD Viewports

Wipeouts in AutoCAD are a useful tool for creating blank areas in your layout, allowing other graphics or elements to stand out. This process can enhance visibility and organization in complex drawings. Here’s how to effectively utilize wipeouts in your AutoCAD viewports.

What is a Wipeout?

A wipeout is essentially a shape that obscures part of your drawing. It can be adjusted to blend with your viewport background, giving the impression of transparent coverage. Wipeouts can be used effectively to mask details that are not essential in a particular view.

Creating a Wipeout

1. Access the Wipeout Tool:

   • Navigate to the "Home" tab on the ribbon.
   • Click on the "Draw" panel, then select the “Wipeout” option.

2. Define the Wipeout Boundary:

   • When prompted, specify a point on the drawing area where you want the wipeout to start.
   • Continue defining the corners of the wipeout shape, which can be a rectangle or any custom polygon by clicking additional points.
   • Once you finish clicking points, press "Enter" to complete the wipeout.
3. Adjusting Wipeout Properties:
   • To modify the properties of the wipeout, select it and right-click. Choose "Properties".
   • In the properties window, you can change aspects such as color and transparency to fit your design requirements.

Applying the Wipeout in a Viewport

1. Activate the Desired Viewport:

   • Click within the viewport where you want to apply the wipeout. Ensure you are in layout view.

2. Create Wipeout Shape:

   • Repeat the creation process as described earlier to generate a new wipeout.
3. Layer Management:
   • To ensure that the wipeout is displayed correctly, it’s advisable to place it in its own layer. This will help with organization and allow you to toggle the visibility as necessary.

Editing an Existing Wipeout

1. Select the Wipeout:

   • Click on the wipeout you wish to edit. Use the grip points to adjust its size or shape if necessary.

2. Access Properties:

   • Right-click and select “Properties” to modify attributes such as fill color, transparency, and boundary shape to suit your current needs.
3. Visibility Adjustments:
   • If the wipeout is not visible, check that its layer is turned on and not frozen. Adjust layer properties via the Layer Properties Manager if needed.

Deleting a Wipeout

1. Select the Wipeout:

   • Click on the wipeout shape to highlight it.
2. Delete the Wipeout:
   • Press the "DELETE" key on your keyboard, or right-click and select "Erase" to remove it from your drawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I adjust the transparency of a wipeout?
Yes, you can adjust the wipeout’s transparency through its properties, allowing for varying levels of visibility.

2. How do I know if my wipeout covers the correct area?
You can temporarily change the viewport layer color or toggle layer visibility to ensure your wipeout overlaps the intended objects before finalizing.

3. Are wipeouts visible in print or PDF exports?
Yes, wipeouts are included in printed documents and PDF exports, but their transparency settings can affect how they appear on output, so make sure to check your print preview.