Inventor and Fusion 360 are two popular three-dimensional modeling software platforms from Autodesk. Inventor is a computer-aided design (CAD) platform, while Fusion 360 combines CAD with computer-aided manufacturing (CAM) and computer-aided engineering (CAE). ) to provide an all-in-one solution.
If you’re looking to hire an Autodesk Fusion 360 professional, read on to learn more about Inventor and Fusion 360. After understanding the differences and similarities between the two platforms, you can figure out which one is right for you. myself more.
What is Autodesk Inventor? Autodesk Inventor is CAD software released two decades ago for professionals working on engineering and manufacturing projects. As a professional tool, Inventor is specifically used for designing products with complex components.
What is Autodesk Fusion 360?
As the name suggests, Fusion 360 combines multiple product design and manufacturing features by delivering CAD, CAM, and CAE software on a single platform. Fusion 360 was first released in 2013 and is designed for professionals and hobbyists. Fusion 360 provides a variety of tools for design, production, rendering, and simulation. The company also offers an option, Autodesk Fusion 360 for Startups, which can be especially great if you’re starting a new business.
Autodesk Fusion 360 vs. Inventor
Below is a comparison of six aspects of the two platforms to help you better understand the similarities and differences between Autodesk Fusion 360 and Autodesk Inventor.
1. System Requirements
Inventor:
Autodesk Inventor requires Windows, but can run on macOS if the computer has a Windows partition. Additionally, Inventor requires a minimum of 8 gigabytes of RAM, of which 20 gigabytes is recommended for optimal performance.
Merge 360:
Fusion 360 is more convenient because it works on both macOS and Windows. It also only requires four gigabytes of RAM.
2. Features
Inventor:
This tool automates designs and allows you to run simulations on designed parts and assemblies. Inventor provides PCB interoperability, allows data management through the Vault, and allows users to share designs via an online link for collaboration.
Merge 360:
Fusion 360 supports most product design and manufacturing processes by integrating CAD and CAM. It allows users to export files in a variety of formats, uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to support general design, and provides cloud storage for work products.
3. User Interface
Inventor:
Inventor is used more often for complex projects. As a result, the user interface (UI) is slightly more complicated than other applications. The UI has a light color, and boasts the following features:
Quick Access Toolbar:
To create new designs and perform operations such as save, export, undo, and redo
File Menu:
To provide the main menu options, such as modeling tools and sketching tools
Browser:
To show the different design files and history of the commands given and tools used
Workspace:
To display the currently opened design
ViewCube:
To choose a direction in which to view the project
Appearance Tab:
To let users pan, zoom, and orbit the design
Fusion 360:
Fusion 360 is generally considered more beginner-friendly than Inventor. The UI also has a lighter color and more space between elements. The UI can be divided into the following features:
Data Panel:
To create, manage, and display projects
Application Bar:
To display the Data Panel access key
Browser:
To list all objects involved in the open design
User Profile:
To display the status of the design process, information about the software, and whether the user is online
Toolbar:
To select a workspace (such as Design, Render, or Animation)
Canvas:
To show the currently opened design
