Mechanical systems can be created and analysed by running simulations and stress testing them to evaluate and hopefully prove that the design is successful, if not then modifications can be made within Inventor to improve the system. Inventor focuses more towards the creation and building of highly complex assemblies, while also prep ing the documentation needed for the different projects. Inventor uses an 3D geometric modeling kernel called Autodesk Shapemanager, that is developed by the company themselves, and is one of many modelling kernels that exist in the market today. Differentiated file formats for parts, assemblies and drawings.Inventor has a vast array of complex functions that the user can avail of, some of which (but not all) are mentioned below: It can create accurate 3D models which aid in the design, visualization and simulation process before any physical object is created. Similar to Fusion 360, it is used to create digital prototypes of a product before any manufacturing is started. It only runs on the Windows operating system and was initially released in September 1999. It also allows effortless transfer from one device to another as all project files are saved online, and this in turn makes the sharing of project files very easy.Īutodesk Inventor is another CAD program that includes 3D solid modelling application that features simulation, mechanical design, visualization, tool creation and documentation. The interface has a learning curve somewhat and will take some time to become accustomed to, but once one is familiar with the commands the design is limited only by the user’s imagination itself. Businesses from small to large also use the software, for the initial design phase and then on to prototyping, using the array of features Fusion 360 offers that include CAD, Computer Aided Manufacturing (CAM) and Computer Aided Engineering (CAE). Autodesk also offers free Educational licences. It is aimed at “hobbyists”, allows the precise design of models in 2D and 3D and gives the user the ability to:įree licenses can be acquired if you qualify, as a hobbyist, student or entrepreneur! So, if you are doing home-based, non-commercial design, manufacturing, and fabrication projects, create YouTube videos, you can get a free Fusion 360 license. This program combines mechanical engineering, some industrial design and the programming of machine tools into one application.

AutoDesk Fusion 360 is a CAD/CAM tool that is cloud-based and allows collaborative product development.

Autodesk revit initial release