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Autodesk Inventor

Autodesk Inventor

Overview

What is Autodesk Inventor?

Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software offers professional-grade 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation tools. These blend parametric, direct, freeform, and rules-based design capabilities. Inventor includes integrated tools for sheet metal, frame design, tube and pipe, cable & harness, presentations,…

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TrustRadius Insights

Autodesk Inventor is widely used in various industries and departments for a range of applications. In the field of mechanical …
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Awards

Products that are considered exceptional by their customers based on a variety of criteria win TrustRadius awards. Learn more about the types of TrustRadius awards to make the best purchase decision. More about TrustRadius Awards

Reviewer Pros & Cons

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Pricing

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Subscription - Monthly

$305

On Premise
per month per user

Subscription - Yearly

$2440

On Premise
per year per user

Subscription - 3 Years

$7320

On Premise
3 years per user

Entry-level set up fee?

  • No setup fee
For the latest information on pricing, visithttps://www.autodesk.com/products/inven…

Offerings

  • Free Trial
  • Free/Freemium Version
  • Premium Consulting/Integration Services

Starting price (does not include set up fee)

  • $300 12 days over 1 year via Flex pricing 100 tokens
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Product Demos

Inventor Fabrication Drawings Product Demonstration Recording

YouTube

Autodesk Inventor Design Accelerators Product Demonstration

YouTube

Autodesk Inventor Assembly Modelling Product Demonstration

YouTube

Inventor Part Modelling Product Demonstration

YouTube

Design Automation with Inventor iLogic Webinar Recording

YouTube

Placing a Component using Autodesk Inventor iLogic

YouTube
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Product Details

What is Autodesk Inventor?

Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software offers professional-grade 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation tools. These blend parametric, direct, freeform, and rules-based design capabilities. Inventor includes integrated tools for sheet metal, frame design, tube and pipe, cable & harness, presentations, rendering, simulation, and machine design. It also features TrustedDWG® compatibility and Model-Based Definition capabilities for embedding manufacturing information directly in the 3D model.

Additional features include:
  • Feedback with built-in collaboration tools.
  • Feedback from stakeholders wherever they are using cloud-based design review.
  • Design configuration through a customizable form to rapidly configure new designs powered by iLogic.
  • Can create a simplified 3D representation of a product along with the required metadata and product classification for use in a BIM project.
  • 3D dimensions, annotations, and dimensional tolerances directly to a 3D model for downstream applications.
  • Standard and customizable content libraries available, including beams, bolted connections, gears, cams, belts, and springs.
  • Design optimization, with tools that help the user find high and low concentrations of stress in a 3D model.
  • Parametric, freeform, and direct modeling tools.
  • Push/pull controls to move, rotate, resize, or scale features from imported geometries.
  • Built-in calculators to inform the design of common joints such as welds, clamps, and press fits.
  • Combines automated tools and full-control design functions in Inventor to build tube and pipe runs.
  • Dynamic simulation, with forces to evaluate the motion, speed, and acceleration of a design.
  • Exploded views and animations of complex assemblies that can be used in product documentation, manuals, and assembly instructions.

Autodesk Inventor Features

  • Supported: Product design
  • Supported: Collaboration and design automation
  • Supported: Modeling
  • Supported: Connected Data
  • Supported: Simulation and visualization

Autodesk Inventor Video

Autodesk Inventor 2024 - What's New

Autodesk Inventor Competitors

Autodesk Inventor Technical Details

Deployment TypesOn-premise, Software as a Service (SaaS), Cloud, or Web-Based
Operating SystemsWindows
Mobile ApplicationNo

Frequently Asked Questions

Autodesk Inventor 3D CAD software offers professional-grade 3D mechanical design, documentation, and product simulation tools. These blend parametric, direct, freeform, and rules-based design capabilities. Inventor includes integrated tools for sheet metal, frame design, tube and pipe, cable & harness, presentations, rendering, simulation, and machine design. It also features TrustedDWG® compatibility and Model-Based Definition capabilities for embedding manufacturing information directly in the 3D model.

Autodesk Inventor starts at $300.

SOLIDWORKS, PTC Creo, and CATIA are common alternatives for Autodesk Inventor.

Reviewers rate Support Rating highest, with a score of 8.1.

The most common users of Autodesk Inventor are from Mid-sized Companies (51-1,000 employees).
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Comparisons

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Reviews and Ratings

(83)

Community Insights

TrustRadius Insights are summaries of user sentiment data from TrustRadius reviews and, when necessary, 3rd-party data sources. Have feedback on this content? Let us know!

Autodesk Inventor is widely used in various industries and departments for a range of applications. In the field of mechanical engineering, students and faculty utilize the software for classes such as mechanical design, introduction to CAD, and industrial engineering. It is also employed in workshops and individual projects for prototype development. Users leverage Autodesk Inventor as a 3D CAD software to model features and parts of prototypes before physical prototyping or 3D printing. The ability to easily share models with others in the company, regardless of whether they have Autodesk Inventor or not, is highly valued. Additionally, the software supports the transition from a 2D to a 3D environment, enabling engineering analysis, accurate BOM information, work instruction, and improved submittal information for customers.

Another important use case for Autodesk Inventor is in sheet metal product manufacturing. The software allows users to draw standard and sheet metal parts, assemble them in assemblies, and check for conflicts before bolting or welding the pieces together. It provides the capability to export sheet metal parts as flat patterns for processing using CNC plasma or laser cutters. Engineers find it convenient that both the shop and office staff are familiar with Autodesk Inventor, making it easier to address questions during assembly. However, some users have reported quirks and difficulties in transferring information between Autodesk Inventor and SOLIDWORKS, leading them to switch back to SOLIDWORKS after trying out Autodesk Inventor for a year.

In the design process, Autodesk Inventor is often used alongside AutoCAD and SOLIDWORKS to model parts, perform FEA for verification, and provide 3D files to customers for their builds. The software's user-friendly GUI, hole tool, and ability to work on projects without outsourcing are appreciated by users. Moreover, it fulfills the increasing demand for 3D models of finished products before finalizing the design process. Beyond mechanical engineering applications, Autodesk Inventor finds use in diverse areas such as model creation for custom air handling units, pressure vessels, and other production machinery. It is also utilized for modeling electrical, mechanical piping, and duct systems in the MEP department. The software's capability to generate DXF files for laser cutting and simplify the nesting process is particularly valued in plant design engineering.

Autodesk Inventor plays a crucial role in product development and design by offering simulation and analysis tools that aid engineers in modeling prototypes, performing analysis, and forecasting testing data. Its contribution to successful product development is highly regarded. Additionally, Autodesk Inventor is also widely used in educational settings, such as digital fabrication laboratories, where it facilitates the creation of new objects to support project development and enhance student learning. The software proves valuable for concept designing, design engineering, and final production purposes.

In different industries, Autodesk Inventor serves as the preferred 3D modeling software for various applications. It enables the design, detailing, and creation of drawings for components, subsystems, and tooling in industries like automatic riveting systems and aircraft assembly. Moreover, the software supports the modeling of custom capital equipment used in mining, recycling, and foundry industries, improving fit and finish during remakes.

The capabilities of Autodesk Inventor extend beyond engineering departments. It is also used by multiple divisions within organizations to create integrated workflow solutions, management of documents and designs, and designing electrical control cabinets and junction boxes. Users appreciate the ease of running FEA on models and creating high-quality and detailed models for customer interaction. Furthermore, all divisions of organizations find value in Autodesk Inventor as their chosen design software provider since it enables the design of all product lines.

Overall, Autodesk Inventor offers a range of robust features that cater to the diverse needs of users across different industries and departments. From mechanical engineering to plant design engineering, from educational labs to complex assembly files with multiple components, Autodesk Inventor has proven to be a versatile tool that enhances productivity and supports efficient design processes.

Unique drawing system: Multiple users have expressed appreciation for Inventor's unique drawing system. According to reviewers, this system allows for the development and modification of new components by creating sketches in XYZ planes. Users find it advantageous that Inventor treats 3D figures as solid parts rather than just computer drawings, enabling them to independently manipulate component parts within a complex system.

Simplicity and user-friendly interface: Reviewers have praised Inventor's simplicity and user-friendly interface. They note that each button, menu, and option in the software is accompanied by an explanation of its functionality, making it easy for users to understand and utilize various features. Additionally, advanced descriptions are available for those seeking a deeper understanding.

Exceptional speed: The exceptional speed of Inventor has been highlighted by multiple users. They report that everything renders extremely quickly in the software without any delays when examining 3D models, parts, or assemblies. This feature is particularly valuable when giving presentations or showcasing concepts in real-time to an audience.

Confusing User Interface: Many users have found the user interface of Autodesk Inventor to be confusing, especially when it comes to tasks such as moving files and managing parent/child relationships. They have expressed difficulties in navigating the software and understanding its organizational structure.

Difficulties with Style Manager: Some users have mentioned that the style manager in Autodesk Inventor could be improved. They find it difficult to choose or change styles related to materials, measurements, and dimensions. This limitation can lead to frustration and inefficiency during the design process.

Lack of Modeling Options for Curved Faces: Users have expressed dissatisfaction with the modeling options for creating curved faces using mesh in Autodesk Inventor. They feel that these options are lacking compared to other similar products on the market. As a result, achieving desired shapes and designs becomes more challenging and time-consuming.

Users recommend comparing Inventor to other CAD programs like SolidWorks or Solid Edge. They believe Inventor is easier to use than the competition and highly recommend it for students or beginners looking to get into CAD. Users also suggest trying Inventor before purchasing and comparing it to the competition. Professional training for employees using Inventor is recommended. Additionally, Inventor is recommended for projects in the Oil and Gas industry and for precision design. Implementing Inventor with Autodesk Vault is suggested as it works well for design automation and large models. Using community forums for support and problem-solving is highly recommended. Overall, users find Inventor to be a powerful three-dimensional modeling software that delivers quality for a fraction of the cost of other CAD software.

Attribute Ratings

Reviews

(1-25 of 25)
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Rehan Akram | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
I worked on project where I need the same project parts and drawings, I simple pack and go and I could able to work the files with any interruption. And we can also easily manage all files by project location. and one thing also useful we can use cloud vault for our data safe and access any where in the world. I like Autodesk Inventor for Product Design for Manufacturing. I worked most with sheet metal product.
Matt Wipf | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I like the fact when you hover over commands on the toolbar, Autodesk Inventor will show videos on how to go about doing the command. Assembling complicated parts can take some time to figure out the right constraints. A few more options would be nice. The hardest part to customize is the view tab. I don't change a lot but it is easy to forget what I change.
Scott Sichmeller | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
For smaller, less complex shops like ours, where systems are primarily built from existing building blocks, Autodesk Inventor works well. System integration is relatively straightforward from our library. For intensive product or component development work, Inventor may fall short relative to the more robust engineering tools of a package like CATIA or SOLIDWORKS. Also, if you are sharing a lot of information outside of the company, the Inventor audience is smaller than some of the other CAD packages.
Score 6 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor does have a couple of features that I wish our current software suite did. I find the view cube to be very nice to work with. I found that most of the features of Inventor are very similar to another program that is used widely in the industry, and yet they seem to not be as easily managed. For example, parametric modeling is nothing new, but it seems like the Inventor interface does not make it as simple to make adjustments or changes quickly. Also, the way the different features are laid out on the toolbar does not seem as logical to me, but that may just be me. I am not sure I like the idea that many different programs must be installed on your machine in order to use different features that are elsewhere incorporated within other software packages.
MITCHELL PILSON | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor has a layout that is easy to get started in and has many ways that advanced users can leverage the software to make intricate designs. They have regularly updated the software to make the tools more robust and easier to run.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Its integration with AutoCAD and multi-user database management are big plusses for Autodesk Inventor. Allowing users from various departments to have different permissions for viewing and accessing files makes Autodesk Inventor a very powerful product.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
For general design, Autodesk Inventor is a top-tier solution. The solid modeling tools are strong and the 2D documentation tools are second to none. Being from the same company that pioneered AutoCAD, this isn't surprising. The creation of non-engineering documentation like renders and videos leaves something to be desired, though. The render engine is antiquated and the materials system is rather inflexible. For photorealism or high-quality video, look to other tools.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Out of all of the 3D/2D software I've used in my career, Autodesk Inventor has found the happy middle ground for my 3D CAD needs. It is user-friendly enough to where anyone with 3D CAD software experience can easily pick it up. At the same time, Autodesk is complex enough to allow near limitless imagination to what can be created.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is very appropriate to create 3D mechanical designs, such as the design of automobiles and airplanes. You can design everything you want. I would not recommend Autodesk Inventor to those who want to do architectural designs. In this case, you should use AutoCAD.
Keith Cordero | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
It is well suited when making blueprints or drawings. Also, if modeling in 3D is a must, Inventor does this quite well. The help function is great in that it can explain exactly what each feature does. The Inventor features may be overkill for some people. Some of my co-workers will just use Sketchup for quick changes.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Inventor is a great tool with multiple use cases and suitable for a variety of industries. I've used Autodesk Inventor in a personal capacity designing trailers for a hobby and then as mentioned through this review to design coal washing plants. This shows that Autodesk can be scaled to accommodate a user's design requirements. We've also used standard steel section design as well as sheet metal design which works as expected. Autodesk was the preferred choice of design tool used throughout our Engineering University classes and is more intuitive and user-friendly compared to other design packages I've worked with.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
It is working well for us designing engineer to order transformers. It has good library capability, good BOM management, easily models necessary parts and integrates with our ERP. The learning curve to transition from other 3D CAD software is short. Reliability has been good and there is plenty of support available from local vendors.
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Overall, It has allowed us to quickly design structures in 3D from our library, which has saved us time, in addition to an impeccable finish. Showing customers exactly what their final product will look like makes it easy for them to understand.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Inventor is well suited to creating individual detailed parts that are a part of a larger assembly for a model, for example, a car. Where it is less appropriate is for the design of buildings and facilities. Even though it can be used for architectural purposes the detailing and creation of architectural elements are best utilized in other software packages.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is a great software for 3d Modeling in a manufacturing environment. It is great for small assemblies and components. I would not use it for plant layout or extremely large assemblies. It also isn't as flexible for collaboration or cloud sharing of files. It is a good, traditional, controlled modeling software, with a pretty good simulation package.
Andrew McLeod | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 7 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
I've found Inventor well suited to handling large and very large assemblies without crashing. That being said, everything is a bit less easy for me to do than it is in SOLIDWORKS. Some things, like adjustable non-rectilinear or splined 3-dimensional paths drawn in the context of assemblies, I don't know if it could be done in Inventor, at least easily.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Inventor is well suited when you need 3D modeling software that is easy to use. I believe out of the two other Inventor type programs I have used, this is the easiest to learn. This is especially useful if you are bringing people who are not too experienced.

Inventor is less appropriate in scenarios when you need highly detailed 3D models that look realistic. The other 3D programs that I have used have much better looking models, they look much more realistic.
Fran Benson | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 6 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
If you are creating detailed models or individual parts this program will get it done. It has the ability to model anything you would manufacture down to the smallest detail. I've often said that I can model my smartphone using Revit and it would look very similar but Autodesk Inventor has the ability to create all of the parts inside my phone which Revit can't do because it can't model with lines that close together. When I model a small part in Revit I can offset lines approximately .010". Any closer the software won't create them. Inventor will draw lines .0001 and maybe even smaller so you can see how small of a model you can design.Our company manufactures custom air handling units and we are progressing to 3D modeling from 2D AutoCAD. I have complete three units using Revit but have issues with the limitation of the spacing of the lines. The units use custom aluminum extrusions between wall panels, at corners and at the roof with specific designs to create a thermal break. Inventor can model these perfectly where I need to compromise using Revit. Inventor using the frame generator can also speed up this process especially when modeling the base. We still need to learn more on using parameters to generate wall geometry spacing extrusions at specific distances.
Juan Carlos Molina Castejón | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is a great tool for students and faculty for engineering areas that don't require great precision or development of more thorough scientific results. Is you are conducting research, or deal with very intricate and complex systems I would recommend a more robust platform that complies more to industry standards.
Score 9 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is well suited for most industrial design environments. It is well suited for those with multi-disciplined design groups. Autodesk has software for about anything a company might be involved in. [It's a] Very diverse software portfolio.
Tyler Grudowski | TrustRadius Reviewer
Score 8 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is well-suited for situations where you are creating 3D models of small, simple parts and assemblies. It is hands-down the fastest and most reliable way to get this done. When you are looking for a software that has many advanced features and controls to create an assembly of 20+ parts, you need to look for other software.
Score 6 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
Autodesk Inventor is a great CAD solution if you're in need of mechanical designs that require thorough testing and iteration before sending them off to be manufactured. It has a number of components that allow you to create tooling and other features key to successful manufacturing. Although the file structure is sometimes hard to learn, it can be useful in models and assembly files that have hundreds of parts. Autodesk Inventor is not as good as organic shapes and surface modeling, especially for packaging design projects (for that I use Fusion 360). You can now export to a link so you can share your model with others, which is a great addition to this overall CAD package.
Score 10 out of 10
Vetted Review
Verified User
Incentivized
for all sorts of design and production. I've worked in furniture, access control, consumer products, exhibit, and packaging. great for models with thousands of parts or just a couple. I also like the PDF generator so you can share your files. Additionally, now you can export to a link so you can share your model with others. The views can turn the model 360 degrees. Many new updates with awesome usability with collaboration in mind!
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