Connected Visual Design with Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Connected Visual Design With Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Introduction to Visualisation With Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection is a comprehensive suite of software tools designed for manufacturers, product designers, and engineers. The collection includes a range of software applications, including Autodesk Inventor, Fusion 360, Nastran, 3ds Max, Navisworks, and Recap. These tools are designed to work together seamlessly, enabling users to create and visualise designs with ease.
One of the key benefits of the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection is its ability to facilitate connected visual design. This means that the software tools in the collection work together to provide users with a holistic view of their designs, from initial concept to final product.
In this blog, we will explore some of the key features of the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection that enable connected visual design, including photo rendering, shared views, simulation, project management collaboration, and 3D laser scan visualisation.
Photo Rendering in Autodesk Inventor
Photo rendering is an important aspect of visual design, as it enables designers to create realistic and detailed images of their designs. Autodesk Inventor, one of the software tools included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, includes powerful photo rendering capabilities.
Autodesk Inventor’s photo rendering tools enable users to create high-quality, photorealistic images of their designs. The software includes a range of lighting and material options, enabling users to customise the look and feel of their designs.
In addition, Autodesk Inventor’s photo rendering tools are integrated with its modelling tools, enabling users to create and edit their designs in real-time as they render them. This enables designers to quickly make changes to their designs and see how they will look in real-time.
Shared Views and Presentation Environment in Autodesk Inventor
In addition to its photo rendering capabilities, Autodesk Inventor also includes features that enable users to share their designs with others. The software’s Shared Views feature enables users to share their designs with others, regardless of whether they have Autodesk Inventor installed on their computer.
Using Shared Views, users can share their designs with others via a web link. This enables designers to collaborate with others and receive feedback on their designs from a wider range of stakeholders.
In addition, Autodesk Inventor includes a Presentation Environment feature, which enables users to create interactive presentations of their designs. This feature enables designers to showcase their designs in a more engaging and interactive way, helping to communicate the value of their designs to others.
Photo Rendering in Fusion 360
Fusion 360 is another software tool included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection that includes powerful photo rendering capabilities. The software includes a range of lighting and material options, enabling users to create realistic and detailed images of their designs.
In addition, Fusion 360 includes a cloud rendering feature, which enables users to render their designs in the cloud.
This means that users can send their rendering jobs to the cloud, where they will be processed using powerful cloud-based hardware. This enables users to quickly and easily create high-quality, photorealistic images of their designs without having to invest in expensive hardware.
Photo Rendering in Navisworks
Navisworks is a project management software tool included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. The software is designed to facilitate collaboration and project management across the entire product design process.
In addition to its project management capabilities, Navisworks also includes powerful photo rendering tools. This enables users to create high-quality, photorealistic images of their designs, helping to communicate the value of their designs to stakeholders.
Simulation in Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360
Simulation is an important aspect of the product design process, as it enables designers to test and validate their designs before they are manufactured. The Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection includes a range of simulation tools, including simulation capabilities in both Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360.
Autodesk Inventor’s simulation tools enable users to simulate a range of scenarios, including stress analysis, deformation analysis, and motion analysis. This enables users to identify potential design flaws and make improvements before the product is manufactured.
Similarly, Fusion 360’s simulation tools enable users to simulate a range of scenarios, including structural, thermal, and fluid simulations. This enables users to gain a deeper understanding of how their designs will perform in the real world, helping to identify potential issues and make improvements.
Visualising Simulation Studies with Nastran and 3ds Max
In addition to simulation capabilities, the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection includes tools that enable users to visualise and communicate their simulation studies. Nastran, a finite element analysis software tool, is included in the collection and enables users to perform advanced simulations.
Using Nastran, users can simulate a range of scenarios, including linear and nonlinear stress analysis, dynamic analysis, and heat transfer analysis. Once a simulation study is complete, users can use 3ds Max, a cinematic photo rendering and animation software tool included in the collection, to visualise the results.
This means that users can create high-quality, photorealistic animations of their simulation studies, helping to communicate their findings to others. This is particularly useful for designers who need to communicate their findings to non-technical stakeholders, such as executives or investors.
Simulation with 3ds Max
While 3ds Max is primarily known for its capabilities in creating 3D models and animations, it also includes powerful simulation tools that can be used to test and validate designs. These tools can be particularly useful for designers who are creating complex assemblies, such as mechanical or architectural systems.
One of the key simulation tools included in 3ds Max is the MassFX physics engine. This engine enables users to simulate realistic physical interactions between objects, such as collisions, gravity, and friction. Users can create simulations of objects falling, bouncing, and rolling across surfaces, and adjust the properties of the objects and the environment to create realistic effects.
Another simulation tool included in 3ds Max is the Particle Flow system. This system enables users to simulate the behavior of particles, such as dust, smoke, or debris. Users can create complex simulations of particle systems, adjusting the speed, direction, and density of the particles to create realistic effects.
In addition to these tools, 3ds Max also includes a range of plugins and add-ons that can be used to enhance its simulation capabilities. For example, the ThinkingParticles plugin enables users to create complex particle simulations, while the FumeFX plugin can be used to simulate smoke and fire.
Overall, the simulation tools included in 3ds Max can be a valuable resource for designers who need to test and validate their designs before they are manufactured. By creating simulations of complex systems, designers can identify potential problems and make adjustments before the design is finalized, helping to ensure that the final product meets the needs of its users.
It is important to note that while 3ds Max includes powerful simulation tools, it is not a dedicated simulation software like Nastran or Inventor. Therefore, it may not be suitable for all types of simulations and may require additional plugins or tools to create more complex simulations.
Cinematic Photo Rendering and Animations in 3ds Max
3ds Max is a cinematic photo rendering and animation software tool included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. The software includes powerful rendering capabilities, enabling users to create high-quality, photorealistic images of their designs.
In addition, 3ds Max includes a range of animation tools, enabling users to create complex animations of their designs. This is particularly useful for designers who need to create animations of their designs for marketing or instructional purposes.
Visualising 3D Laser Scans with Recap
Recap is a 3D scanning software tool that is included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. It enables users to create detailed 3D scans of physical objects, which can then be imported into other software tools for further processing.
One of the primary ways that Recap is used in the collection is to import 3D scans into other design software tools, such as Autodesk Inventor or Fusion 360. Once the scan data has been imported into these tools, designers can use it to create precise 3D models of the scanned objects.
For example, a designer might use Recap to create a 3D scan of an existing object, such as a machine part. The scan data can then be imported into Inventor, where the designer can create a 3D model of the part. This can be useful for designers who need to create replacement parts or make modifications to existing designs.
In addition to Inventor and Fusion 360, Recap data can also be imported into other software tools included in the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. For example, the scan data can be imported into 3ds Max, where it can be used to create detailed visualisations and animations of the scanned objects.
Recap data can also be imported into Navisworks, which is a powerful project management and collaboration tool. By importing scan data into Navisworks, designers can create detailed 3D models of existing structures or environments, which can be used to plan construction projects or renovations.
Overall, Recap is a powerful tool that can be used to create detailed 3D scans of physical objects, which can then be imported into other software tools in the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. This can be useful for designers who need to create precise 3D models of existing objects, or for those who need to plan construction projects or renovations using detailed 3D models of existing structures or environments.
Â
Recap scans can be imported into several other software tools included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, including AutoCAD with specialized toolsets.
AutoCAD with specialized toolsets is a version of AutoCAD that includes additional features and tools designed for specific industries, such as architecture, engineering, and construction. It includes toolsets such as Architecture, Electrical, Mechanical, and MEP, among others.
By importing Recap scans into AutoCAD with specialized toolsets, designers can use the scan data to create precise 2D and 3D models of existing structures or environments. For example, the Architecture toolset includes features such as walls, doors, windows, and stairs, which can be used to create detailed architectural plans based on the scan data. Similarly, the Mechanical toolset includes tools for creating 3D models of mechanical components based on the scan data.
In addition to AutoCAD with specialized toolsets, Recap scans can also be imported into other software tools included in the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, such as Nastran and Simulation Mechanical. These tools are used for advanced simulation and analysis of complex mechanical systems, and by importing scan data into these tools, designers can create precise 3D models of existing systems and components.
Recap scans can also be imported into Navisworks, which is a powerful project management and collaboration tool. By importing scan data into Navisworks, designers can create detailed 3D models of existing structures or environments, which can be used to plan construction projects or renovations.
Overall, Recap scans can be imported into a variety of software tools included in the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, including AutoCAD with specialized toolsets, Nastran, Simulation Mechanical, and Navisworks. This enables designers to create precise 2D and 3D models based on scan data, as well as perform advanced simulation and analysis of complex systems and components.
Bringing in 3D Models into 3ds Max and Navisworks
Connected visual design refers to the process of using various software tools to create and visualise 3D models of products or structures in a connected, integrated way. The Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection includes several software tools that can be used for connected visual design, including 3ds Max and Navisworks.
3ds Max is a powerful tool for creating highly detailed 3D models, as well as visualisations and animations of those models. By importing designs from other software tools, such as Inventor or Fusion 360, into 3ds Max, designers can create highly detailed visualisations of their products or structures. This can be useful for creating marketing materials or for visualising how products will look in real-world environments.
One of the key benefits of using 3ds Max for connected visual design is its ability to create highly realistic photo-renderings and animations. The software includes a range of tools and features for creating realistic lighting, textures, and materials, which can help designers create highly realistic visualisations of their designs. This can be particularly useful for designers who need to create realistic images or animations for marketing materials or presentations.
Navisworks, on the other hand, is a powerful project management and collaboration tool that is designed for use in the construction industry. It allows designers and project managers to create detailed 3D models of buildings or other structures, which can be used to plan and manage construction projects.
By importing 3D designs from other software tools, such as Inventor or Fusion 360, into Navisworks, designers can create highly detailed 3D models of their structures or environments. These models can then be used to plan construction projects or to identify potential issues or clashes in the design.
In addition to its project management and collaboration features, Navisworks also includes tools for creating realistic visualisations of designs. The software includes a range of photo-rendering and animation tools, which can be used to create highly realistic visualisations of buildings or other structures. This can be useful for creating marketing materials or for visualising how buildings or structures will look in real-world environments.
Overall, the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection includes several software tools that can be used for connected visual design, including 3ds Max and Navisworks. By importing designs from other software tools into these applications, designers can create highly detailed and realistic visualisations of their products or structures, as well as manage construction projects and collaborate with other team members.
Exporting Navisworks to 3ds Max
To export Navisworks models to 3ds Max for further visualization such as photo rendering and animation, you can use the FBX file format. First, open your Navisworks model and select the objects you wish to export. Then, go to the “Add-Ins” tab and click on “Export FBX”. In the Export FBX dialog box, select the appropriate options such as the file location and units, and click “Export”. Once exported, open 3ds Max and import the FBX file. You can then apply textures, materials, and lighting to the model and use the software’s rendering and animation tools to create high-quality visuals and animations.
Compare Visualisation in Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Software Title | Visualisation Tool | Key Features |
Autodesk Inventor | Photo Rendering | • Realistic rendering of 3D designs • Supports a variety of materials, textures, and lighting options • Ability to create exploded views and animation |
Autodesk Inventor | Shared Views and Presentation Environment | • Share designs with others and receive feedback • Collaboration and commenting tools • Ability to create presentations with interactive features |
Autodesk Fusion 360 | Photo Rendering | • Cloud rendering for faster rendering times • Realistic rendering of 3D designs • Supports a variety of materials, textures, and lighting options |
Autodesk Simulation | Inventor | • Ability to simulate mechanical, thermal, and fluid flow properties • In-product simulation analysis • Interactive result visualisation |
Autodesk Simulation | Fusion 360 | • Cloud-based simulation analysis • Ability to simulate mechanical, thermal, and fluid flow properties • Interactive result visualisation |
Autodesk Nastran | Visualise Simulation Studies | • Advanced simulation analysis capabilities • Ability to simulate a wide range of materials and physical properties • Interactive result visualisation |
Autodesk Navisworks | Photo Rendering | • Realistic rendering of 3D models • Ability to create animations and walkthroughs • Collaboration and commenting tools |
Autodesk Navisworks | Project Management and Collaboration | • Ability to create highly detailed 3D models of buildings or structures • Identify potential issues or clashes in the design • Collaboration and commenting tools |
Autodesk Navisworks | 5D Scheduling | • Create and manage construction schedules • Ability to simulate construction sequences and identify potential issues • Collaboration and commenting tools |
Autodesk 3ds Max | Cinematic Photo Rendering and Animations | • Highly realistic photo-rendering and animation capabilities • Supports a variety of materials, textures, and lighting options • Advanced animation capabilities |
Autodesk Recap | Visualise 3D Laser Scans with 3D Models | • Ability to create detailed 3D scans of physical objects • Import scans into other software tools for further processing • Integration with AutoCAD with specialised toolsets for modelling and visualisation |
Ready to get your Visualisations Connected?
Discover how Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection can streamline your workflow, increase productivity, and optimise your design process.Â
Get up to 20% Off Software or Services!
Contact us to find out how much money you can save on software, training or other services. Fill out the form below, by live chat, phone or email.
P: 1800 490 514 |Â E: info@designconsulting.com.au
Connected Design with Product Design & Manufacturing Collection
Click a link below to learn more about Connected Design using the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing CollectionÂ
