3D CAD applications.

3D CAD applications short description:

Autodesk Inventor is a computer-aided design application for 3D mechanical design, simulation, visualization, and documentation developed by Autodesk. It was released in 1999.
It allows 2D and 3D data integration in a single environment, creating a virtual representation of the final product that enables users to validate the form, fit, and function of the product before it is ever built. Autodesk Inventor includes parametric, direct edit and freeform modeling tools as well as multi-CAD translation capabilities and in their standard DWG drawings.

SolidWorks is a solid modeling computer-aided design (CAD) and computer-aided engineering (CAE) application published by Dassault Systèmes. Released in 1995.
It is a solid modeler, and utilizes a parametric feature-based approach which was initially developed by PTC (Creo/Pro-Engineer) to create models and assemblies. Parameters refer to constraints whose values determine the shape or geometry of the model or assembly. Parameters can be either numeric parameters, such as line lengths or circle diameters, or geometric parameters, such as tangent, parallel, concentric, horizontal or vertical, etc. Numeric parameters can be associated with each other through the use of relations, which allows them to capture design intent.

AutoCAD is a commercial computer-aided design (CAD) and drafting software application. Developed and marketed by Autodesk, AutoCAD was first released in December 1982 as a desktop app running on microcomputers with internal graphics controllers. Before AutoCAD was introduced, most commercial CAD programs ran on mainframe computers or minicomputers, with each CAD operator (user) working at a separate graphics terminal.
AutoCAD is used in industry, by architects, project managers, engineers, graphic designers, city planners and other professionals. It was supported by 750 training centers worldwide in 1994. It was released in 1979.

Wich is better ?

Solidworks against Inventor, seemed like a challenge, they push one another to become better. As far as I’m concerned, it is suitable for this competition to continue for years to come. These two are fantastic competitors.

Because they’re similar programs, SolidWorks and Inventor are both great options for 3D modeling software. Both are industry standards for a number of reasons, and both offer a wide range of simulations to thoroughly test designs before they come to life.

Inventor Advantages

Although it’s often overshadowed by its more famous sibling AutoCAD, Inventor actually fills a lot of gaps in Autodesk’s usage roster. Here’s a look at some of its best features.

Direct-edit and free-form modeling tools: As an alternative to parametric design’s prediction-based process, Inventor offers to direct-edit and free-form modeling.
Automation of advanced geometries: Another function automates the math behind scenes for complex moving parts, like kinetic blades or support wires. This allows one to focus on the big picture of a design without getting bogged down by small details.
Quick loading time: Inventor distinguishes itself by loading the graphic parts of a design separately from the material and geometric data. This makes it noticeably fast since the latter are by far the largest data hogs of most designs.
Free education license: Students benefit from a free three-year subscription to all Autodesk products, including Inventor. This can save individuals thousands of dollars during their studies and let them become very familiar with the program before deciding if they’ll need it in their professional lives.
Simulation tools: Inventor has its own ways to test 3D designs in real-world situations. Its Dynamic Simulation module, in particular, applies specific types of pressure to key points, like torque to joints. A favorite among many is the burst weldment tool. This lets one undo a weld to simulate what would happen if it gave way in an emergency situation.

Inventor Disadvantages

Inventor closes the gap with SolidWorks with each new update, but it’s still not for everybody.

Steep learning curve: Generally speaking, Autodesk products aren’t known for their user-friendliness, and unfortunately, Inventor is no exception. There isn’t a huge online community, either, although Autodesk offers tutorials and support documents on its official page.
Support priority: While Autodesk does provide support through many avenues, those who have purchased more expensive licenses receive priority in the support queue.

SolidWorks Advantages

SolidWorks established 3D modeling standards for engineering CAD, but it hasn’t depended on its pedigree to do the heavy lifting. Throughout years of operation, SolidWorks has added a host of other features that complement and expand on CAD needs.

Simulation tools: One could say that SolidWorks’ options for testing designs have lapped the current needs. They give you high-repetition stress tests, temperature and object pressure measures, and a host of other real-world standards that one can mix and match to see exactly how a design will perform before buying a single beam or screw. This saves not only money but also building time and material waste – valuable factors in the manufacturing process.
Sustainability tool: Speaking of helping the environment, SolidWorks also has a sustainability tool that determines the environmental impact a design will have. It’s an eye-opening feature that matters more than ever as industry is put under more and more pressure to create products effectively and responsibly.
AR/VR: SolidWorks is one of the first companies to recognize the benefits of augmented and virtual reality in practical design. This tool from their 2018 and 2019 updates can be used to inspect a design from every angle and test its usability in a variety of environments and situations beyond the standard math of simulations.
Large design review: With SolidWorks, there’s plenty of room to grow. The large design review offers the power to design, test, and model pieces with millions of components without burning out a computer’s CPU.
CAM design to manufacture: SolidWorks is a soup-to-nuts system, beginning with 2D sketching and 3D modeling and ending with simulations and preparing for the manufacturing process.

SolidWorks Disadvantages

SolidWorks strives to be the people’s solid modeling software, but sometimes that means sacrificing one strength for another. Here are some of SolidWorks’ weak points that may break the deal for you.

Not ideal for architecture: Despite the fact that SolidWorks has a respectable 2D sketching module, it’s made to accommodate transitioning to 3D modeling, and that’s reflected in its structure. There aren’t any tools, for example, that architects could use to keep up with building codes, proportions, and building design.
No free student license: Unlike Autodesk’s menagerie, SolidWorks doesn’t have a free educational use license (though they do have a reduced cost student license). Because of this, many students, teachers, and educational institutions have to pass on SolidWorks.

Conclusion (my thoughts)

If you are a newbie, start with SolidWorks, it is very easy to use.
if you have AutoCAD background, then use Inventor. it will be very intuitive for you.
Both are AWESOME CAD applications.

Santiago Martinez

Industrial  Engineer

www.windydaysproducts.com