What Is a Wipeout in AutoCAD?
In AutoCAD, a wipeout is a command used to create a polygonal area that masks underlying objects. It is commonly used to hide certain parts of a drawing or to create clean backgrounds.
Why Use Wipeouts?
Wipeouts are particularly useful when you want to remove clutter from your drawing or emphasize specific elements. By using wipeouts, you can easily hide unwanted details without altering the actual geometry of the objects.
Creating Wipeouts:
To create a wipeout, follow these steps:
- Click on the Wipeout button located on the Ribbon.
- Select the desired shape for your wipeout:
- Polygonal Wipeout: Allows you to define the number of sides for your wipeout shape.
- Rectangular Wipeout: Lets you create rectangular wipeouts by specifying two corners.
- Select the points that define the shape of your wipeout on the drawing area.
- Press Enter or right-click to confirm and exit the command.
Tips for Working with Wipeouts:
Avoiding Display Issues:
If you experience display issues with wipeouts, try changing their draw order. To do this, use the “DRAWORDER” command and select the affected wipeout. Then, choose “Bring to Front” or “Send to Back” as needed.
Editing Wipeouts:
Wipeouts can be easily modified after creation. To edit a wipeout, use the “WIPEOUTEDIT” command and select the wipeout you wish to modify. You can then adjust its shape or even delete it.
In Conclusion
Wipeouts are an essential tool in AutoCAD that allow you to mask parts of your drawing without altering the underlying geometry. By using wipeouts effectively, you can create visually clean and professional drawings.
Remember to experiment with different wipeout shapes and strategies to achieve the desired results. With practice, you’ll become proficient in utilizing wipeouts efficiently within your AutoCAD projects.