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Understanding Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage: Integration with CAD Software and Data Management Solutions

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage

Understanding Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage: Integration with CAD Software and Data Management Solutions

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage is a robust cloud-based Product Lifecycle Management (PLM) platform designed to enhance collaboration and efficiency across various design and engineering processes. By integrating seamlessly with Autodesk’s suite of CAD software—including Fusion 360, Inventor, and AutoCAD—Fusion 360 Manage provides a comprehensive solution for managing product data and workflows. Additionally, it connects with data management solutions like Autodesk Vault, Upchain, and Prodsmart, creating a cohesive ecosystem that streamlines product development.

This blog post delves into the intricacies of Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage, its integration capabilities, and the benefits these integrations offer.

What is Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage?

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage is a cloud-based PLM solution that connects people, processes, and data throughout the product life cycle. It offers a wide range of functionalities, including:

  • Project Management: Fusion 360 Manage allows teams to plan, execute, and monitor projects effectively. Users can create tasks, assign resources, and track progress in real-time, ensuring that projects stay on schedule.
  • Change Management: The platform provides tools to manage engineering changes, ensuring that all stakeholders are informed and changes are documented and approved systematically.
  • Bill of Materials (BOM) Management: Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage allows users to create, manage, and track BOMs, ensuring that all components are accounted for throughout the product life cycle.
  • Collaboration Tools: With built-in collaboration features, teams can share information, communicate effectively, and work together seamlessly, regardless of their physical location.

By providing a centralised platform for collaboration and data management, Fusion 360 Manage enables teams to work together efficiently, leading to faster product development cycles and improved quality.

Integration with CAD Software

1. Fusion 360

The integration of Fusion 360 with Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage is one of the most significant advantages of the platform. Fusion 360 is a powerful 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE tool that allows users to design, simulate, and manufacture products. The integration provides several key benefits:

    • Real-Time Collaboration: Users can manage design data directly within the PLM environment, facilitating real-time collaboration on design changes. This ensures all stakeholders can access the latest information, reducing the risk of errors and miscommunication.
    • Design Iteration Tracking: Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage allows teams to track design iterations effectively. Users can see the history of changes made to designs, making it easier to revert to previous versions if needed.
    • Centralised Data Management: All design data, including models, drawings, and simulations, can be stored and managed within Fusion 360 Manage. This centralisation simplifies data retrieval and ensures that everyone is working with the most current information.

2. Inventor

For users of Autodesk Inventor, Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage provides powerful tools to manage complex assemblies and parts. The integration between Inventor and Fusion 360 Manage offers:

    • Enhanced Control Over Assemblies: Users can manage large-scale projects with confidence, knowing that they have a clear overview of the design hierarchy and dependencies. This visibility helps teams coordinate their efforts and avoid conflicts.
    • Revision Management: Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage allows users to manage revisions and changes to Inventor files systematically. This ensures that all changes are documented and approved, reducing the risk of errors in the final product.
    • Seamless Data Exchange: The integration enables seamless data exchange between Inventor and Fusion 360 Manage, ensuring that design data is always up-to-date and accessible to all team members.

3. AutoCAD

AutoCAD is one of the most widely used CAD software applications, particularly for 2D design and drafting. The integration of AutoCAD with Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage provides several advantages:

    • Document Management: AutoCAD users can manage drawings and related documents within the PLM framework. This ensures that all design data, including 2D drawings, specifications, and supporting documents, are organised and accessible from a single location.
    • Version Control: Fusion 360 Manage offers robust version control features, allowing users to track changes to AutoCAD files and ensure everyone is working with the latest version.
    • Collaboration on Designs: The integration facilitates collaboration among team members working on AutoCAD designs, enabling them to share feedback and make changes in real-time.

Integration with Autodesk Vault

Autodesk Vault is a data management solution that ensures secure storage, version control, and tracking of design data. Although there is no native integration between Vault and Fusion 360 Manage, third-party tools like CoolOrange PowerPLM bridge this gap effectively, enabling organisations to leverage the strengths of both platforms.

How CoolOrange PowerPLM Works

PowerPLM allows for seamless data exchange and process synchronisation between Vault and Fusion 360 Manage. It acts as a bridge, enabling the transfer of data and workflows between the two systems. Key functionalities of PowerPLM include:

    • Item and Process Transfers: PowerPLM automates the transfer of items and processes between Vault and Fusion 360 Manage, ensuring that data is accurately and efficiently transferred between the two platforms. This enhances data integrity and collaboration by eliminating manual data entry and reducing the risk of errors.
    • Sample Workflows: PowerPLM provides predefined workflows that can be customised to suit specific organisational needs. For example, it can automatically create items in Fusion 360 Manage when items in Vault change states or synchronise Engineering Change Orders (ECOs) between both systems. This ensures that design changes are reflected across platforms, maintaining consistency and accuracy throughout the product development process.
    • Bidirectional Synchronisation: The tool enables bidirectional synchronisation between Vault and Fusion 360 Manage. This means that changes made in one system can be automatically reflected in the other, keeping both platforms up-to-date and reducing the risk of data discrepancies.

Benefits of Integrating Vault with Fusion 360 Manage

The integration of Autodesk Vault with Fusion 360 Manage through PowerPLM provides numerous benefits:

    • Improved Data Integrity: By automating data transfers and synchronisation, organisations can maintain high data integrity, ensuring that all stakeholders are working with accurate and up-to-date information.
    • Streamlined Workflows: The integration simplifies workflows by reducing the need for manual data entry and minimising the risk of errors. Teams can focus on their core tasks rather than spending time on administrative duties.
    • Enhanced Collaboration: With all design data accessible from both Vault and Fusion 360 Manage, teams can collaborate more effectively, leading to improved communication and faster decision-making.

Integration with Upchain and Prodsmart

While specific details on the integration of Fusion 360 Manage with Upchain and Prodsmart were not highlighted in the search results, both platforms are known for enhancing collaboration and data management in product development.

Upchain

Upchain is a cloud-based PLM solution that connects teams and data across the supply chain. Its integration with Fusion 360 Manage would likely facilitate better visibility and control over product data, enabling teams to collaborate more effectively and make informed decisions throughout the product life cycle. Key features of Upchain include:

    • Centralised Data Repository: Upchain provides a centralised repository for all product data, making it easy for teams to access the information they need when they need it.
    • Real-Time Collaboration: Teams can collaborate in real-time, sharing feedback and making changes to designs quickly. This agility is crucial in today’s fast-paced product development environment.
    • Enhanced Visibility: Upchain offers tools for tracking project progress and monitoring key performance indicators (KPIs), providing teams with insights into their workflows and helping them identify areas for improvement.

Prodsmart

Prodsmart is a manufacturing execution system (MES) that provides insights into production processes. Integrating Fusion 360 Manage with Prodsmart can improve efficiency and data-driven decision-making throughout the manufacturing lifecycle. Key benefits of this integration include:

    • Real-Time Production Data: By connecting design data from Fusion 360 Manage with real-time production data from Prodsmart, organisations can optimise their manufacturing processes and identify bottlenecks.
    • Data-Driven Decision Making: The integration allows teams to make informed decisions based on real-time data, improving productivity and quality.
    • Streamlined Manufacturing Processes: By aligning design and manufacturing data, organisations can streamline their processes, reducing lead times and improving overall efficiency.

The Importance of Integration in Product Development

The integration of Fusion 360 Manage with various CAD software and data management solutions is crucial for modern product development. Here are some reasons why these integrations are essential:

1. Enhanced Collaboration

In today’s globalised world, teams often work across different locations and time zones. Integrating PLM with CAD software and data management solutions enables real-time collaboration, ensuring that all stakeholders can access the latest information and contribute to the project regardless of their location. This collaborative environment fosters innovation and accelerates product development.

2. Improved Data Management

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage

Managing product data effectively is critical for successful product development. Integrating Fusion 360 Manage with tools like Autodesk Vault, Upchain, and Prodsmart ensures that all data is organised, accessible, and up-to-date. This reduces the risk of errors, minimises data silos, and enhances overall data integrity.

3. Streamlined Workflows

Integrations help streamline workflows by automating data transfers and synchronising processes. This reduces the need for manual data entry and minimises the risk of errors, allowing teams to focus on their core tasks and improving overall efficiency.

4. Better Decision-Making

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage

Access to accurate and up-to-date data is essential for informed decision-making. By integrating various systems, organisations can ensure decision-makers have access to the information they need to make timely and effective decisions, ultimately leading to better project outcomes.

Ready to Transform Your Product Development Process?

Autodesk Fusion 360 Manage is a powerful PLM solution that offers seamless integration with Autodesk’s suite of CAD software and data management solutions. By connecting with tools like Fusion 360, Inventor, AutoCAD, Vault, Upchain, and Prodsmart, Fusion 360 Manage provides a comprehensive platform for managing product lifecycles and optimising product development processes. These integrations enhance collaboration, streamline workflows, and improve data integrity, enabling organisations to bring products to market faster and with greater success.

For design professionals looking to stay ahead of the curve, understanding and leveraging these integrations is crucial. By adopting a fully integrated approach to product development, organisations can achieve new levels of efficiency and innovation, setting themselves apart in today’s competitive market.

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Design Automation with Inventor: Boosting Efficiency and Productivity

Autodesk Inventor Professional 3D mechanical CAD software

Design Automation with Inventor: Boosting Efficiency and Productivity

Autodesk Inventor iLogic design automation services and training

In today’s fast-paced world, businesses are constantly seeking innovative ways to streamline their design processes and enhance productivity. One such solution is design automation, which empowers engineers and designers to automate repetitive tasks and focus on more complex aspects of their projects. In this blog, we will delve into the world of design automation with Autodesk Inventor, exploring the utilisation of iLogic, macros, the Inventor API, and Forge Design Automation. Let’s embark on this journey towards increased efficiency and productivity!

Leveraging iLogic for Design Automation

iLogic is a powerful feature integrated into Autodesk Inventor that allows users to automate design processes by defining rules and logic. By creating iLogic rules, designers can automate repetitive tasks, customise designs based on specific parameters, and streamline the overall design workflow. This section will discuss the fundamentals of iLogic, provide practical examples, and showcase its potential for design automation.

Streamlining Design with Macros

Macros offer another excellent way to automate design processes in Autodesk Inventor. A macro is a script or set of commands that can be executed to perform repetitive tasks automatically. With macros, designers can automate complex sequences of actions, such as generating parts, assemblies, or drawings, significantly reducing the time and effort required. This section will explore the basics of using macros, highlight their benefits, and provide code examples for practical implementation.

Extending Functionality with the Inventor API

The Inventor API (Application Programming Interface) provides developers with a powerful toolset to extend the capabilities of Autodesk Inventor. By utilizing the API, designers can create custom applications, add-ins, and scripts that automate specific design tasks or enhance existing functionalities. This section will introduce the Inventor API, discuss its key features, and demonstrate how it can be leveraged to automate repetitive design processes effectively.

Harnessing the Power of Autodesk Platform Services

Autodesk Platform Services (aka Forge) is a cloud-based platform that enables the automation of design and engineering workflows at scale. By integrating Forge Design Automation with Autodesk Inventor, businesses can automate time-consuming tasks, reduce manual errors, and improve collaboration among teams. This section will provide an overview of Forge Design Automation, discuss its benefits, and explore real-world examples of how it can enhance design automation processes.

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Whats New in Autodesk Vault 2024

Check out the latest in mechanical and product design and engineering in What's New in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024
Check out what's new in the latest Autodesk Vault 2024 release

What's New in Autodesk Vault 2024

Autodesk Vault 2024 is out with a focus on enforcing standards, delivering intuitive tools and administrative enhancements

Autodesk Vault 2024 is out with a focus on enforcing standards, delivering intuitive tools and administrative enhancements. Focus on the Work Export more design formats for downstream collaboration. Create new projects from a template structure. Enforcing Standards Manage and distribute Inventor template and design data. Enforce peer review during the design process. Intuitive Tools for Collaboration User-interface enhancements for more intuitive workflows and workflow enhancements.

Authors: More features for CAD users in Vault 2024 to Focus on the Work

Job Processor: DXF and STEP

Users can export DXF and STEP files for manufacturing, suppliers, and subcontractors as part of the release process.

  • On-demand DXF/STEP publish
  • DXF/STEP publish on state transition
  • Sync LC state and revision on DXF/STEP files
  • DXF/STEP file getting created in vault to use Design Rep classification and PDF like workflow
  • DXF/STEP file publish options like PDF publish options

Copy Design Enhancements

Design re-use efficiency by reducing number of clicks to complete the workflow and pre-checks to prevent errors prior to creating a new design variation.

  • More usability by enabling Copy/Paste in the copy design numbering panel
  • Use the Copy/Paste functionality to edit multiple row values in and excel spreadsheet and then copy them to the Copy Design with one operation
  • More guidance through highlight restriction before copy operations start (property: –)
  • Export File list within the warning dialog

Copy Design BOM Enhancements

Newly copied parts can be assigned to an Item immediately after Copy Design is executed.

Copy Design updates the BOM information in part files without having to open them in Inventor first

Copy Folder Structure

You can setup a new project quickly and start with a known folder structure.

  • Users can create a project folder from a template or previous folder structure
  • Copy Folder Structure permissions and Properties

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Insert Punch Tool from Vault

Users can select sheet metal punches from Vault when they are not in the local workspace.

Browse for 3D iFeature shapes from Vault to be inserted into the sheet metal face.

Administrators: Enforcing Vault Standards for Gratere Project Compliance

Inventor Design Data & Template Management

CAD Administrator can create and deploy template updates to users easily through Vault. Users remain up-to-date with templates and design data without manual updates.

The focus in 2024 is to create an Inventor\Vault integrated experience for the Template and Design Data Files with automatic updates of Templates and Design Data within specific workflows.

Peer Review

Control the lifecycle process by requiring a different user to transition to the next state. 

With this new user requirement, you can configure the Vault State transition to require Four Eyes Check and configure multiple rules for which files require Peer Review based on property values.

Job Processor

Apply retry strategy to visualization and custom jobs to reduce administration and user disruption to re-submit such jobs manually.

  • Automatic Retry capability for failed Job
  • Specify retry strategy between 1 and 10 attempts
  • The Job Processor will retry the failed jobs automatically without manual intervention

Thin Client Admin Settings

Administrators can set default columns for all Thin Client users in Autodesk Vault 2024.

Backup/Restore Enhancements

In Vault 2024, there is more flexibility in the Vault Server backup command to assist with backing up specified data components. This enhancement helps customers with large Vault environments that cannot use the existing backup command in the Vault Server.

Participants: Intuitive Vault Tools in 2024 for Project Collaboration

Thin Client – Enhancements

Select the Vault you need at the time of signing into the Thin Client and the Vault drop-down list shows the available Vault on the Server.

  • Improve interactions and control within the Thin Client interface with control for Expanding or Collapsing All for Objects with Structure.

Advanced Search capabilities paired with a modern UI for better experience:

  • Save searches as bookmarks in the browser
  • Search individual workspaces or multiple workspaces
  • Search workspaces of choice with search parameters
  • Search current folders and sub-folders
  • Find latest version only

Inventor Read-Only Vault Add-in

The Vault Add-in in Autodesk Vault Professional 2024 is available in Inventor Read-only, so users can open files and get access to Vault data directly from Inventor Read-only allowing users to review models efficiently without going between applications.

Learn More about Autodesk Vault 2024

Check out the Autodesk Vault 2024 Help

section for more information regarding the 2024 release.

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Vault is available from Design Consulting on-premise or cloud, so contact us to discuss which instance suits you best.

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What’s New in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024

Check out the latest in mechanical and product design and engineering in What's New in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024
Check out the latest in mechanical and product design and engineering in What's New in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024

What's New in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024

Autodesk Inventor Professional  2024 is out with a focus on new features and over 100 customer driven enhancements for MBD, Part Modeling, Assembly, Drawings, Graphics, Performance, iLogic, Content Center and the API.

Here’s the top features and enhancements in Autodesk Inventor Professional 2024.

General Enhancements

General

It is now possible to set Perspective With Ortho Faces as the default view setting in both Document Settings and Application options.

  • Set ‘Perspective With Ortho Faces’ as the default view setting

Application Options:

  • Display tab > Appearance > Settings >
  • Display Appearance dialog > Initial Display Appearance > Projection

Modeling document:

  • Document Settings > Standard tab > Display Appearance >
  • Settings > Initial Display Appearance > Projection

Graphics

Render Size Limit Removed

Inventor Studio has had, until now, an imposed 4096 x 4096 pixel rendering output. The limitation has been removed and Inventor Studio will render images up to 16K x 16K resolution, depending on what your graphics card supports.

Custom Environment Image Support

The workflow for using custom hdr and exr images with IBL lighting styles is much improved and is supported for both CPU and GPU ray tracing.

Support for IBL backgrounds

GPU ray tracing now supports rendering with IBL backgrounds.

The following enhancements in Graphics have been added:

  • Section view tools expanded
    • Flip
    • Move
    • Rotate
    • End cap
  • Section options added to mini-toolbar
  • Edit and suppress section views in “View Representations”
  • Control Section View end cap preview during section view plane dragging
  • <= 500 parts – end cap shown by default
  • > 500 parts – end cap not shown
  • Override the setting by selecting or deselecting the option in the mini-toolbar
  • Use custom IBL environment
  • GPU ray tracing now supports:
    • IBL environments
    • Threads
  • Ray Tracing UI update

Part Modeling Enhancements

Sheet Metal

Enhanced profile detection on overlapping sketches

Parameter Window

Text and Boolean values can now be exported

  • Boolean has the options of:
    • Text (True or False)
    • Number (0 or 1)
    • Yes or No
  • Hardness

Mark Feature

  • New behaviour section:
    • Project
    • Wrap (new)
  • Choose direction for mark
  • Mark across multiple coplanar surfaces

Assembly Modeling Enhancements

Oriented Minimum Bounding Box

  • Rotate Bounding Boxes to match angle of parts
  • Represents footprint of components more accurately
  • Available in:
    • Simplify
    • Derive
  • Simplify – bounding box edges measured and appear in parameter window

Patterns

Rectangular Pattern

You can now select a revolved face, cylindrical or conical, to define the direction for a component pattern. The Pattern Component command uses the face axis to define the pattern direction. Use the standard controls to flip the direction.

It is not necessary to activate the selector when using an origin axis, clicking the flyout activates the selector and chooses the selected axis. The direction selection does not change with the activation of the selector, you must also select a new direction.

Circular Pattern

Circular pattern for components is enhanced to provide incremental and fitted positioning methods.

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New: Finish Feature

The new Finish feature enables you to not only specify the appearance of your parts, components and assemblies, but also the manufacturing process such as material coating or surface finish.

All applied finishes are listed in a new Finishes folder in the browser. You can re-order the finishes in the browser node, suppress, rename or delete them.

In Drawings, a new “Parameters – Finish” type category is added to the Leader Text and the Format Text dialogs to enable Finish information to be used in drawing notes. These parameters will automatically be updated if changed in the modelling environment. This enhances your drawing by adding additional manufacturing process information to the documentation.

Each Finish feature setting has a parameter with corresponding unique name in the “Finish Parameters” category in the Parameters dialog. All Finish parameters can be exported. Exported parameters are displayed in iProperties. Note that change in iProperties doesn’t affect the model finish feature parameters.

The Finish feature can be captured in Model States, iPart an iAssembly.

3D Annotations (MBD) Enhancements

3D Weld Symbols

3D weld symbols are now available as one of the 3D annotation types. Create and edit weld and subweld symbols in a part or assembly model. Then, retrieve the associative symbols in drawings. 3D weld symbols are included in exports to 3D PDF, DWF, and Shared Views.

3DA Envelope Requirement Modifier

The Envelope Requirement modifier is now available for hole notes and dimensions. In the annotation preview, click on a dimension and in the toolbar select the envelope modifier.

Annotation Scale

In this release, 1:5 scale is added to the annotation scale drop down per DIN EN ISO 55455

All Over Modifier

The All Over modifier is now available for feature control annotations.

Drawing Enhancements

Sheet Property

Sheet Name is added as a Sheet Property and can be used in text.

It is now easier to recognize if a filter is applied to the parts list. An icon in the browser and the Parts List dialog displays a filter symbol when one is applied.

Break Line

A change was made to the “Break Out Line” object type for ISO standards. Until now, the “Visible” layer on “Thickness” was set to 0.5 mm. Now, as per the updated standard, the “Break Out Line” object type uses the “Break Line” layer by default with a thickness of 0.25 mm. This also applies to DIN/GB/JIS standards.

Many 2D weld symbols in drawings were updated as per ISO/BSI/DIN/GB standards. The newly introduced 3D weld symbols use ISO, DIN and ANSI standards. The changes include updating the names of fields and adding new fields depending on the selected weld type. The changes were made to Square Butt Welds, Fillet Welds, or Plug Welds for example.

Drawing Line Colour Controls

With this release, color scheme settings can be set for drawing sketch elements. Until now, it was difficult to work with elements if their color conflicted with the sheet color setting. The new Sketch options under the Drafting heading allow the color of sketch elements to be set for the drawing environment.

Revision Clouds

Revision clouds are full-fledged Inventor objects and no longer in the SDK. Add them to drawing sheets or views, move them around, add or delete vertices, and like other annotation styles the formatting is managed using the Styles Editor. Being sketch-based they can be edited either in their cloud state or from the sketch.

Edge Symbol

Starting from this release of Inventor, you can define an Edge Symbol based on ISO 13715:2019 standard. The new Edge Symbol command is added to the Symbols panel of the Annotate tab. The Edge symbol style is added to the drawing Style and Standard Editor.

Tube and Pipe Enhancements

Custom Elbows

In previous versions of Inventor, it was only possible to add a 45 or 90 degree elbow to a rigid pipe run. Starting from this release , it is now possible to apply custom angled elbows.

When a style with Custom Elbows is activated, select the Custom Elbows option in the Route dialog and either use the curved arrow manipulators, or type a value to angle the elbow relative to the current position.

  • When dragged by 45 or 90 degrees, the route is populated with a rigid elbow. Rigid elbow is placed as a Standardpart.
  • When dragged to other than 45 or 90 degrees, the route is populated with a custom elbow. Custom elbow is placed as a Custompart

Minimum and maximum angles are defined in the Custom Angle (CA) column within the Content Center part.

New Custom Elbow Styles

New styles which support the use of custom elbows (Custom Elbow 45, Custom Angle 90) are available in the Tube and Pipe Styles dialog.

iLogic Enhancements

Vault Workflow Enhancements

With Inventor 2024, working with Vault has never been easier. New functions added to iLogic allow Inventor to check out, get files, search Vault, and much more as part of your automations. Vault code snippets added to the editor make it easy to quickly get started.

Add a Custom Content Center Part

You now have the ability to place and define a custom part in iLogic. Create a custom part in Content Center, or insert a standard Content Center part as a custom part, and create a rule to capture the current state. The “AddCustomConterCenterPart” function is created. When you edit the part and repeat the capture operation, iLogic rule updates accordingly. Also, when you edit the rule, the part updates as well.

Close an Open Form

A new function to close an open form is added in this release of Inventor. Note that this is only available for non-modal forms.

Interoperability Enhancements

UCS Support

Both JT and STEP support the option to include UCS on import.

OBJ Import

Performance when opening OBJ files has been improved.

Solid Edge

Support for reading SolidEdge 2023 is added.

Parasolid

Support for importing and exporting Parasolid version 35 is added.

Access to Manual Inspection added to Fusion 360 tools

From within Inventor you can send a part (.ipt) file to Fusion 360 and create manual inspection tasks.

Fusion Exports Workflow

If a change has occurred in the Inventor model state or design view used for a Fusion 360 export, and you click Open in Fusion 360 in the export context menu, you are notified that the Inventor model and Fusion 360 model are out of sync and are given the option to update the Fusion 360 model before opening it.

Learn More about Autodesk Inventor 2024

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Connected MEP Design with Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

Connected MEP Design Moving at the Speed of Business
Design Consulting Product Design Manufacturing Collection Moving at the Speed of Business

Connected MEP Design with Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

Streamlining MEP Design with Autodesk: An In-Depth Look at AutoCAD MEP and Inventor's Tools and Benefits

MEP (mechanical, electrical, and piping) design is an essential part of building construction, and Autodesk’s Product Design and Manufacturing Industry Collection provides software tools to simplify and streamline the MEP design process. In this blog post, we’ll explore how Autodesk’s AutoCAD MEP and Inventor can be used for efficient and accurate MEP design

Using AutoCAD MEP for MEP Design

AutoCAD MEP is a powerful software tool specifically designed for MEP industry professionals. It comes equipped with a range of tools that make MEP design more efficient, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing content, tool palettes, space coordination, electrical circuiting, and data extraction. These tools make it easy to create, edit, and share MEP designs with precision and accuracy

Use AutoCAD MEP to design HVAC systems and extend capabilities with Revit MEP (BIM) and cadMEP, ESTmep and CAMduct (Fabrication)

Using Autodesk Inventor for MEP Design

Autodesk Inventor is a 3D mechanical design software tool that can be used for MEP design. Its tube and pipe routing features, assembly environment, XREF, and AnyCAD features make it ideal for designing and analysing piping systems. The software allows for the creation of intelligent 3D models that can be used for interference checking, stress analysis, and simulation, providing MEP professionals with the necessary tools to streamline their design process.

Benefits of Using Autodesk's Product Design and Manufacturing Industry Collection

Using Autodesk’s Product Design and Manufacturing Industry Collection provides many benefits for MEP design. It saves time, improves accuracy, and ensures compliance with industry standards. With this software collection, MEP professionals have access to a suite of tools that can be used for 2D and 3D design, simulation, and analysis. Additionally, the software integrates with other Autodesk products, allowing for seamless collaboration between teams.

Importing DWG Files into AutoCAD MEP and Inventor

Both AutoCAD MEP and Inventor allow for the import of 2D and 3D DWG files. In AutoCAD MEP, you can import 2D DWG files using the “Insert” command. You can also import 3D DWG files and use them as a reference to create a new MEP model. In Inventor, you can import 2D DWG files using the AnyCAD feature. This feature allows you to link the 2D DWG file to your Inventor model, allowing you to update your design in real-time.

XREFing an Inventor Model into AutoCAD MEP

In addition to importing DWG files, you can also XREF an Inventor model into AutoCAD MEP. This feature allows you to bring in a 3D model created in Inventor and use it as a reference for your AutoCAD MEP model. By doing so, you can ensure that your MEP design is accurate and coordinated with other building systems.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Autodesk’s Product Design and Manufacturing Industry Collection provides MEP professionals with a suite of tools that can be used to streamline their design process. AutoCAD MEP and Inventor are two software tools that provide MEP professionals with a range of features, including mechanical, electrical, and plumbing content, tube and pipe routing, assembly environment, XREF, AnyCAD, and more.

You can also check out our Fabrication page to learn more about Fabrication workflows for MEP.

Ready to get your MEP Design Connected?

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Connected MEP Design Moving at the Speed of Business

Connected Design with Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

Click a link below to learn more about Connected Design using the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection 

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ProModel: Your Autodesk® Process Analysis 360 Substitute

ProModel

After March 31, 2023, the Product Design and Manufacturing Collection will no longer include Process Analysis 360 as a part of the offering. See the FAQs below for more information on this change. We recommend ProModel by BIGBEAR.AI as an alternative option with similar capability.

With ProModel, you can create the perfect factory layout before you start any building works. Design, simulate, and optimize your factory layout before you build it, using one of the world’s leading computer-aided design tools.

ProModel

With ProModel AutoCAD Edition you can easily build spatially accurate layout and process simulation models of your factory simultaneously—all from within AutoCAD.

Simulate scaled models with just one click, view results, and easily make, test, and validate layout process changes in AutoCAD. You can then finalize your model and view it in 3D.

Promodel animation
Promodel

Create, test and optimise a bottleneck free factory layout, long before any work evert takes place in your factory.  Be ready to hit the ground running with efficient factory layout and processes.

Autodesk® Process Analysis 360 End of Life.
Frequently Asked Questions

What is changing with Autodesk® Process Analysis 360?
After March 31, 2023, the Product Design and Manufacturing Collection will no longer include Process Analysis 360 as a part of the offering.

Why is this change happening?
Autodesk Process Analysis 360 does not have the integration or scalability required for modern factory planning workflows.

What are the recommended solutions with similar capabilities to Process Analysis 360?
Autodesk is working with ProModel to provide Autodesk customers with a trial version of the ProModel AutoCAD Edition. ProModel has capabilities similar to Process Analysis 360. ProModel also offers other standalone software solutions that may better fulfill your requirements.

Where can I learn more about the ProModel AutoCAD Edition evaluation?
Visit the ProModel website where you can find more information and download a free trial of the ProModel AutoCAD Edition.

What will happen to Process Analysis 360 after March 31, 2023?
Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection subscribers will no longer have access to Process Analysis 360 after March 31, 2023. Customers will still be able to access existing files, but you will not be able to use the software to modify those files.

More Information

Contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below to get more information on how to best manage your design and engineering software.  Our team of experts have saved our clients thousands of dollars by helping them make smart decisions around how to best structure their investment in technology for maximum return on investment.   We’d be happy to audit your existing technology and recommend any changes that you could benefit from.

 

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Autodesk Access Replacing Autodesk Desktop Application (ADA)

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On March 15, 2023, Autodesk Desktop Application (ADA) will be replaced by Autodesk Access. This will provide a firm foundation  for future capabilities, making it simple to manage new Autodesk product updates.

The new Autodesk Access has been built with trust, security and choice in mind, providing many benefits, including:

  • Easy access to updates, new features, and defect fixes, keeping you productive without interfering with your workflows
  • Improved control over your user update experience
  • Enhanced security features while improving performance
  •  

How To Update To Autodesk Access

You will automatically receive Autodesk Access if you currently have the Autodesk Desktop App or if you install a new Autodek product on or after March 15, 2023.

Starting March 15, you can download Autodesk Access here

Important Notice: User Permissions

Please note that when Autodesk Access is installed, by default, users will have access to install updates if they have administrator rights. To prevent users from manually installing updates via the new Autodesk Access, use the following Registry Key. We recommend completing this step before March 15th. For more guidance on how to set this key for your users, please see this support article. See key details below:

  • Create a new key in the HKCU/Software/Autodesk/ODIS folder.
    • Key name: DisableManualUpdateInstall
    • DWORD value: 1

This is Autodesk’s first step in an exciting roadmap to give customers a simple, transparent update experience with full control and easy access to new product features.  Stay tuned for further updates from Design Consulting as Autodesk continue to release new features and improvements.

More Information

Contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below to get more information on how to best manage your Autodesk software.  Our team of experts have saved our clients thousands of dollars by helping them make smart decisions around how to best structure their investment in technology for maximum return on investment.   We’d be happy to audit your existing technology and recommend any changes that you could benefit from.

 

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Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer – Renaming Files

Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer
Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer

Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer - Renaming Files

This Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer post looks at the common workflows in both systems when it comes to renaming a file. Typically when a a file is renamed it is either named differently because their is a variation, or perhaps the design intent has changed and there may be a need to modify the filename or it is copied and the requirement to have a unique filename exists.

File Management

Renaming Files in Windows Explorer

When renaming within a Windows Explorer environment, as long as the file is not opened, you can simply left click or right-click > rename and change the filename as long as the same filename does not exist in the same file path.

There are 3rd party tools to batch rename as well of you need to change a filename in bulk.

Windows Explorer File Renaming Challenges

Using Windows, users experience the following challenges:

  • Reference management may fail as the filename in the reference file path has changed
  • Changing multiple files can be time consuming
  • Updating the part number or other metadata, properties or attributes within the file. While we can rename the file, if we need to also rename the metadata within that file, we need to go into each file that needs to be modified, make the changes, save, exit and repeat for each file that needs a similar metadata change.

Renaming in Vault

With Vault, you can rename files and metadata within the file a couple ways:

  • Rename Wizard
  • Edit Properties
  • Copy Design
 

Rename Wizard

By selecting a file or files, then right-clicking the mouse button, you can select the rename command to launch the rename wizard.

Autodesk Vault’s Rename Wizard gives you the following options:

  • Add more files to rename
  • Add a Prefix and/or Suffix or Increment
  • Modify the filename
  • Update the Part Number
  • Numbering Scheme (for Vault Professional environments)
 
Autodesk Vault
Using the Rename Wizard in Vault

Edit Properties

Like the Rename Wizard in Autodesk Vault, you can bulk update properties through the Vault Explorer without needing to open files individually.

Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic Training Course
Editing Properties in Vault

Opening Files That Have Been Renamed

Windows Explorer

The issue with opening referenced files that have been renamed is matching the file reference. No big deal when it’s one, but if there are hundreds or more, the process can be mind numbing and time consuming.

Autodesk Vault

When files are renamed in Vault and opened in CAD, Vault tracks the change and ensures the reference to any other files are maintained, giving users more time to focus on design rather than file administration. 

Autodesk Vault Vs Windows - File Renaming Video

Watch the video below to compare file remaming in Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer.

Learn More about Autodesk Vault

Check out the rest of the Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer Blog Series or click on a button below to learn more about having Vault to manage your data on-prem or in the cloud.

Free 90 Day Vault Trial

If you are interested in trialling Vault or just want to discuss your data management requirements further, feel free to fill out the form below or contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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February 2023 Autodesk Update: What’s New

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Discover the latest news and new features from Autodesk, Click the links below for more information.

 AutoCAD and AutoCAD LT

 Architecture, Engineering & Civil Engineering

 Design & Manufacturing

 Media & Entertainment

 Admin resources and more

 More Information

Contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below to get more information on how to best manage your Autodesk software.  Our team of experts have saved our clients thousands of dollars by helping them make smart decisions around how to best structure their investment in technology for maximum return on investment.   We’d be happy to audit your existing technology and recommend any changes that you could benefit from.

 

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Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer – File Management

Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer
Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer

Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer - File Management

In the first post of the Autodesk Vault vs Windows Explorer Blog Series, we take a look at the differences between Autodesk Vault and Windows Explorer when it comes to file management and how users store, find files, create files and folders.

File Management

Windows Explorer File Management Processes and Techniques

When managing CAD or BIM data using AutoCAD, Inventor or Revit in a Windows Explorer, Network Server or even Cloud Storage environment, users typically:

  • Store data in folders
  • Sort data or projects by folder
  • Descriptive filenames that are complex and long are used to understand what the file is and what it contains
  • Find files by clicking through folders and sub-folders or searching by file name
  • Have a centralised library of content center files, xrefs, blocks, templates, etc.
  • Create multiple ipj files (for Inventor) to manage projects or isolate project specific files
  • Updating files and the file metadata on a batch scale using 3rd party tools, such as Inventor task scheduler

Windows Explorer File Management Challenges

Using Windows, users experience the following challenges:

  • Complex folder and sub-folder structures based on agreed upon rules or company standards
  • Understanding what a filename means to know what the file contains
  • Having to open the file or multiple files to find the right file/s.
  • Managing folder and filenames characters when the 255 character folder/filename limitation becomes an issue
  • Wasting time looking through folder structures to find the ‘correct’ file
  • Understanding which files reference the file you want to modify.
  • If there are duplicates, which file is the right file.
  • Using files across projects. In an Inventor environment, doing this while managing ipj files and reference errors can also become challenging.
  • Renaming or updating files on a batch scale can be laborious 
  • The time it takes windows to search and find the files is time consuming
  • Windows finds other files that may not be related
  • You can’t see the metadata or file properties that are stored within the CAD file
  • Unless the filename includes the version or revision, it’s difficult to understand if it’s the latest file
Autodesk Vault vs Windows Explorer - searching for a file side by side comparison
Autodesk Vault vs Windows Explorer - Side by side comparison when searching

Vault File Management

Using a SQL database, Vault managing folder and file entries, queries and file attributes, changing the way files are managed from relying on manual standards, file naming and folder structure procedures to leveraging file metadata and visualisation.

Using Vault, users can still use traditional folder and file naming methods to find files or by using advanced searching criteria, metadata and visualisation, users can the right file.

In the scenario below, we know the file name contains 558, it’s an ipt file and who created it, so by using this criteria, we can filter through the folder structure very quickly to isolate which file/s we are looking for. Search results can also be saved for future use too.

Autodesk Vault explorer user interafce
Autodesk Vault Explorer User Interface

Folder Management

Like Windows, using the Project Explorer interface, users can create folders, sub-folders and (also new files) also use numbering schemes, Vault properties, datasheet, categories, version controls and lifecycles to manage the folder and its contents.

Tools to find the right file in Vault

Now that we have found what files have met the search criteria, amongst other tools in Vault, we can use these tabs to give us more insight into the file:

  • Search Results – view the results, file category, stage, compliance and any other associated metadata you want to view
  • Properties – displays all the properties associated with the file
  • History – provides an thumbnail, it’s version, revision, historical state and other meta data
  • Where Used – Lets you know which files are referencing the selected file before you start editing it and making changes to the file.
  • View –  without needing to open the file, a user can view a 3D model (pan, rotate & zoom) or 2D drawing, measure, see markups, create cross sections and utilise all the other tools available in the Autodesk Viewer that is used in other Autodesk management tools such as Fusion Teams and Autodesk Construction Cloud.
Autodesk Vault saved search Moving at the Speed of Business
Autodesk Vault - View tab lets you preview a 3D model in Vault
Autodesk Vault visualisation viewer lets you preview the model in 3D before opening it
Autodesk Vault - View tab lets you preview a 3D model in Vault
Autodesk Vault - where used allows users to understand where the file is being used as a reference
Autodesk Vault - Where Used Tab lets you see which other files are referencing the selected file

Autodesk Vault File Management Video

Watch the video below to see how easy it is to find files in Autodesk Vault.

Learn More about Autodesk Vault

Autodesk Vault can be deployed on-premise or cloud. To learn more about Autodesk Vault click one of the buttons below.

Free 90 Day Vault Trial

If you are interested in trialling Vault or just want to discuss your data management requirements further, feel free to fill out the form below or contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer

Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer
Compare Autodesk Vault to using windows explorer

Autodesk Vault Vs Windows Explorer

When using CAD software such as Autodesk AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor, the natural choice is to use the Windows Explorer environment and store files and manage projects and data in Windows folders.

User who use Windows folders can experience limitations and need to do more manual operations compared to using Autodesk Vault to manage their data, however, what are the differences between these two ways of working and is the time and money spent on implementing a new system less than the time spent working in Windows folders?

The answer an overwhelming yes from Vault users, and this blog series will demonstrate the differences, so if you are unsure of why you should stop how you are managing your CAD data in Windows, this blog should answer those questions. 

What's the Difference?

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • File Management – How do you store and find files and metadata
  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed
  • Concurrent Design – How do you work on the same project and files
  • Collaboration – How do you collaborate with other team members

File Management

Windows Explorer File Management Processes and Techniques

When managing CAD or BIM data using AutoCAD, Inventor or Revit in a Windows Explorer, Network Server or even Cloud Storage environment, users typically:

  • Store data in folders
  • Sort data or projects by folder
  • Descriptive filenames that are complex and long are used to understand what the file is and what it contains
  • Find files by clicking through folders and sub-folders or searching by file name
  • Have a centralised library of content center files, xrefs, blocks, templates, etc.
  • Create multiple ipj files (for Inventor) to manage projects or isolate project specific files
  • Updating files and the file metadata on a batch scale using 3rd party tools, such as Inventor task scheduler

Vault File Management

Using a SQL database, Vault managing folder and file entries, queries and file attributes, changing the way files are managed from relying on manual standards, file naming and folder structure procedures to leveraging file metadata and visualisation.

Using Vault, users can still use traditional folder and file naming methods to find files or by using advanced searching criteria, metadata and visualisation, users can the right file.

In the scenario below, we know the file name contains 558, it’s an ipt file and who created it, so by using this criteria, we can filter through the folder structure very quickly to isolate which file/s we are looking for. Search results can also be saved for future use too.

Autodesk Vault explorer user interafce
Autodesk Vault Explorer User Interface

Autodesk Vault vs Windows Explorer - File Management Blog Post

Click the button below to learn more about how Autodesk Vault manages files compared to using Windows Explorer

Reference Management

Windows Reference Management

When files are referenced within a file such as an xref in AutoCAD and Revit or iam, ipt and idw in an Inventor iam

Windows Vs Vault

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

Renaming Files

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

Copying Files

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

IPJ File Management

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

Attributes/Properties

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

Version Control

Here’s the main differences when working in Autodesk Vault and Windows:

  • Reference management – How the systems manage file references such as when files like dwg xrefs are linked into a dwg in an AutoCAD project or with Inventor Assemblies, how sub-assemblies, parts and drawings are managed.
  • Renaming Files – How do you rename a file or a batch of files and how it affects other files that reference the renamed file.
  • Copying Files – Copying existing files from existing projects and re-using designs.
  • IPJ file management (Autodesk Inventor) – Inventor uses IPJ project files and the way they are used in both systems differ.
  • Attributes/Properties – How users modify the attributes/properties of files
  • Version Control – How versions are managed

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Inventor and Revit Fabrication Workflows

Advance Steel Revit Workflows Moving at the Speed of Business
Inventor Revit interop Moving at the Speed of Business Inventor users working with Revit have always found the data exchange tedious, with huge Revit models taking time to import, naming conventions not coming through, only an Element ID, and then once this bloated model came through, having to work with your assembly and the imported Revit model, working at a snails pace, but that all changed when Autodesk introduced Revit rvt files being supported in AnyCAD, a file reference tool in Autodesk Inventor.

Revit to Inventor

inventor 2022 image factory dataset 02 Moving at the Speed of Business When importing a Revit rvt file, the Inventor user has the option to:
  • Import it (convert it to an Inventor model) or
  • Reference it (link it in, like an xref), so if the rvt file changes, it will update
Once you reference the file in, you can start modelling around it or place it in an existing assembly and detail it. Inventor Revit 1 Moving at the Speed of Business Inventor Revit 2 Moving at the Speed of Business Click here to learn more or enquire below.

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors. Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.
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End Construction Manufacturing Siloes with a Digital Fabrication Platform

CADmep - Detailed 3D modelling. cadmep fundamentals training course

End Construction Manufacturing Siloes with a Digital Fabrication Platform

Managing a construction project is challenging at the best of times, but manual and inefficient fabrication workflows can easily drag out any build.

With modern digital collaboration and workflow platforms now available, building and construction managers no longer need to play guesswork with their metal fabrication requirements.

In this blog we will look at the challenge of disparate workflows and how Design Consulting can integrate a number of tools to streamline fabrication to improve project management and overall building quality.

Fabrication Workflow Still Very Manual

Most construction projects use some amount of steel for structural members, perforated sheets for facades and tubing for balustrades.

This construction-level fabrication is a form of “construction manufacturing” and the fabrication requirements are generally unique to the project.

As a result of the unique requirements the industry is accustomed to fragmented processes with siloed technology.

For example, estimators might have their own way of requesting what is needed in a PDF or spreadsheet document; a design team might use CAD for design, but not with fabrication-level tools; and the machining team have their separate software and processes.

Then there are external stakeholders. Construction teams routinely have to send and receive designs from customers, consultants and regulators, who also might have something else to add.

Time and Quality Costs Add Up

What is all this manual work costing? Quite a lot in time and materials.

Construction industry leaders need to assess how they are doing fabrication workflow now and are the tools in use connected with team members and customers?

In the corporate world, people don’t print out a document and surface mail it to someone and then repeat the process over and over, but that’s how bad the manual processes can be with fabrication workflows.

The construction industry is overdue for a change.

Moving to Digital Fabrication Workflow

Moving to a digital fabrication workflow platform is a good example of digital transformation in the construction sector.

It is about taking the design from the start and going through to manufacture with the same data source, so there is no need to recreate anything in a different program that is disconnected.

With a modern digital collaboration platform, when a change happens it flows through to all stakeholders by connecting departments, end-users and software platforms

For example, with estimating most people use a spreadsheet and manually draw lines in PDFs. Why do that when you can extract data from a model and use design estimating tools?

The suite of Autodesk fabrication products work with its most popular CAD and analysis tools for a good level of integration.

For example, Autodesk Fabrication CADmep gives you the ability to create fabrication-intent models of piping, plumbing and ductwork systems. Construction companies can connect CADmep with ESTmep, CADduct and Revit for complete end-to-end workflows.

For more information on how fabrication workflow products integrate with each other please see the documentation on our Fabrication page

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Vault Cloud

Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud
Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Autodesk Vault Cloud

Access Vault in the Cloud for Vault Basic, Vault Professional and Vault Professional with JP Pro Job Processor Editions

Save time and increase productivity with Autodesk Vault's data and file management tools in the cloud.
Design Consulting offers Autodesk Vault on-premise and now in the cloud to give greater flexibility

Benefits of Vault Cloud

Save time and increase productivity with Autodesk Vault's data and file management tools in the cloud.
Design Consulting offers Autodesk Vault on-premise and now in the cloud to give greater flexibility

Benefits of Vault Cloud

IT Infrastrucuture logo 400 Moving at the Speed of Business

No IT costs

No IT costs
speedo 400 Moving at the Speed of Business

Up and running quickly

Up and running quickly
Access anywhere Moving at the Speed of Business

Access data over the internet

Access data over the internet
No upfront costs 300 Moving at the Speed of Business

No upfront costs

No upfront costs
Weekly payments 400 Moving at the Speed of Business

Pay monthly

Pay monthly

Compare Vault Cloud Editions

Choose from Vault Basic, Professional or add-on an advanced job processor to off-load and automate repetivitive tasks for AutoCAD and Inventor projects.
Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Basic

$299.00

p/mth*

Secure Data Management with:

  • 1TB Storage
  • Standard Setup, Configuration and Training
  • Administration, Support and Maintenance
  • Check in / Check-out
  • Version Control
  • Fast Data Searching
  • AutoCAD and Inventor Integration
Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Professional

$599.00

p/month*

Everything in Vault Basic plus:

  • Revision Control
  • Lifecycle Management
  • Automatic Numbering Schemes
  • Duplicate Search
  • Unlimited Thin Clients
Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Professional with JP-Pro

$1,349.00

p/month*

Everything in Vault Professional plus:

  • Dedicated Job Processor Machine
  • Automate Jobs On-Demand
  • Automate Jobs on Change-State
  • Publish IDW/DWG to PDF
  • Publish DXF Flat Patterns from SM ipt
  • Publish IDW/DWG to AutoCAD DWG
  • Publish to STEP, IGES and other 3D Models
  • CSV/XML BOM Export
  • Publish PDF for Word and Excel
  • Email Notifications
  • Vault Basic
  • Vault Professional
  • Vault Professional with JP Pro
Vault BasicVault ProfessionalVault Professional with JP Pro
$$29900
/month*
$$59900
/month*
$$1,34900
/month*
1TB Storage
500/500GB Data/Back-Up
Standard Setup, Configuration and Training
Adminstration, Support and Maintenance
Check In / Check Out
Version Control
Copy Design
Bulk Property Renaming
Concurrent Design
Fast Data Searching
AutoCAD and Inventor Integration
Revision Control
Lifecycle Management
Automatic Numbering Schemes
Duplicate Search
Unlimited Thin Clients
Access Vault via web browser to search, print, view and download
Dedicated Job Processor Machine
Off-load jobs on-demand or on change-state
Publish IDW/DWG to PDF
Publish DXF flat patterns for Sheet metal from Inventor sm ipt files
Publish Inventor IDW/DWG to AutoCAD DWG
Export to STEP, IGES, STL and other 3D formats
Export to STL
Export CSV/XML from Inventor BOM
Publish PDF for Word and Excel
Email Notifications
Add to CartAdd to CartAdd to Cart

*Pricing is based on 36-month contract. Vault licencing, standard setup, configuration and training, Vault administration, maintenance and support is included. Pricing is higher for additional configuration. Terms and conditions apply. Contact us for more information.

Vault Cloud Options

Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Basic

Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Professional

Autodesk Vault Autodesk Vault Basic,Vault Professional, available on-premise or pay by the month in the cloud

Vault Professional with JP-Pro

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Hire a full time CAD Manager for $325 pw

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Hire a full time CAD Manager for $325 pw

Based in Australia, duties Include:

  • Managing revisions
  • Publishing PDF, DXF, DWG, STEP files, etc.
  • Batch update properties/attributes
  • Managing file references
  • Finds latest files
  • Change Orders
  • Exports Bill of Materials 
  • Finds Duplicates
  • Copies projects and files for new projects
  • Works 7 days per week, available 24 hours per day
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Yes, it is too good to be true...

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But time is money and in these inflationary times, you need to automate mundane repetitive tasks...

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Get Vault Professional from $325 per week to automate and manage AutoCAD and Inventor Projects plus more.

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Product Design & Manufacturing Collection Workflows – Inventor-Navisworks

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Navisworks Factory Moving at the Speed of Business

Product Design & Manufacturing Collection Workflows - Inventor-Navisworks

Find out if you should be using Navisworks in the PDM Collection.

What is Navisworks?

Navisworks is 2D/3D project management software with data aggregation, collaboration, scheduling, clash detection, rendering and animation tools for large projects mainly in construction and for large assemblies.

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Why use Navisworks?

Here’s 5 benefits for Autodesk Inventor users:

  • Append – You can have super massive assemblies in Navisworks and if the Inventor model (or other any other file format) changes, it updates in Navisworks.
  • Data aggregation – Combine almost any 2D or 3D file formats into the one file.
  • Collaborate – Share files, renderings and walkthrough animations with free Navisworks and Autodesk viewers.
  • 5D Scheduling – Combine 3D with Project Management Tools, Create or upload a Gannt chart and simulate the deconstruction and/or construction of your models.
  • Clash Detection – See if your equipment will clash with other objects or services.

To learn more about Navisworks, visit the Navisworks page on the Autodesk website

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Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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CNC Posts for Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360

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CNC Posts for Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360

Thinking of connecting Inventor or Fusion 360 to your CNC Machine?

Let us know your make and model and we’ll quote you on a CNC Post!

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  • Streamline and connect your engineering and manufacturing workflows with integrated CAM in Inventor and Fusion 360. 
  • Use Inventor Nesting to optimise nest table and export Nesting to DXF or CAM for Machining.
  • Associative design with integrated Nesting and CAM reduces rework and errors.
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Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Synching AutoCAD and Inventor Layouts with PDM Collection

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Synching AutoCAD and Inventor Layouts with PDM Collection

The ability to select a conveyor, draw hundreds of metres in polylines and within seconds convert it into an Inventor assembly of thousands of parts and a bill of materials is a game changer.

Whether it’s a conveyor system for a factory or chutes for the resource sector, the Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection has unique AutoCAD 2D and Inventor 3D synchronisation tools to get the job done faster.

With the Factory Design Utilities in the PDM Collection, users can:

  • Layout and synch between AutoCAD and Inventor
  • Access 1000’s of smart Factory assets
  • Create your own custom factory assets
  • Chain assets – 3D models from an AutoCAD polyline
  • Process analysis – create layouts and simulate, optimise and report on assembly lines

Check out the Autodesk Factory Channel here to learn more: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCUK_zCI5A1rbi4O3b_VVv5g

Design Consulting offers Factory Design Utilities setup and training, so contact us if you’re interested in seeing how Factory Design Utilities works.

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Revit Architecture and MEP Workflows with Simulation, CFD Dynamo and Autodesk Rendering

combining Revit, dynamo, simulation cfd and Autodesk cloud rendering

Revit Architecture and MEP Workflows

Building and Internal Airflow Analysis using Revit, Simulation CFD, Dynamo and Autodesk Cloud Rendering

We all need to collaborate better and a picture speaks a thousands words. Typically BIM collaboration has largely been done by linking in Architectural, MEP and Structural models but when you combine BIM models and computational fluid dynamic analysis, the results are limitless as the video below illustrates how Architects, MEP designers and Engineers can collaborate better through Autodesk Revit.

Autodesk Revit to Simulation CFD

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Once the Revit model has been shared with the Engineer and they have completed their analysis, results can be exported to a spreadsheet.

Until recently, there’s been no way of importing those results into Revit to coordinate CFD analysis with a BIM model, however, through Dynamo visual scripting we are able to bridge the gap between excel data and BIM modelling.

Sending CFD Results as Models to Revit via Dynamo

Autodesk Dynamo Training Fundamentals Course. For Revit, Advance Steel or Civil 3D or customised to suit your project needs.

Dynamo is a visual scripting language that has suport for a wide range of formats and in this scenario we imported CFD coordinate data and positioned them correctly to be able to visualise results with the BIM model, to coordinate with various stakeholders to make better design choices.

Autodesk Cloud Rendering

combining Revit, dynamo, simulation cfd and Autodesk cloud rendering

Using the Autodesk Cloud Rendering service, a panorama render can be processed in the cloud and shared amongst non-CAD users and either using a browser, the recipient of the file can view in 360 the impacts of the design and the airflow behaviour.

Optionally, you can be immersed into a virtual reality environment using any popular VR headset and device.

Click here to view the  panorama

AEC Collection + Simulation CFD

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Apart from Autodesk Simulation CFD, Revit, Dynamo and Autodesk Rendering is available through your AEC Collection, however, there may be additional fees for high-quality renders through Autodesk Rendering service utilising cloud credits.

 

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Evaluate cost impacts with the PDM Collection

Product Design & Manufacturing Collection tolerance analysis advanced-statistical-results-large-1920x1080
Product Design & Manufacturing Collection tolerance analysis advanced-statistical-results-large-1920x1080

Evaluate cost impacts with the PDM Collection

How do you stack your tolerances?
Dimensional variations can mean the difference to your design getting assembled or rejected.

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Product Design & Manufacturing Collection IC Commercial New Single-user ELD Annual Subscription

Balance assembly fit and machining cost with the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

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Reduce Errors

Tolerance analysis tools reduce errors in manual stacking

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Accuracy

Accurately calculate cumulative effects of GD&T

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Results

Communicate Analysis Results

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Cost

Show cost-control efforts manufacturing

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Automate Inventor models drawings and iproperties

Autodesk Inventor iLogic design automation services and training
Autodesk Inventor iLogic design automation services and training

Automate Inventor models, drawings and iproperties

Are your Inventor models and metadata same but different?

Use iLogic to save time on repetitive design and admin in Inventor.

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Design Consulting can automate your Inventor models and drawings and/or provide iLogic training.

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Models

Automate part and assembly design

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2D Drawings

Automate Sheets, Views and Annotations

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Materials

Automate material/appearance assignment

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iProperties

iProperties and Bill of Material metadata

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Autodesk Vault Migration Best Practices

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Vault migration planning best practices and information

Autodesk Vault Migration Best Practices

A Vault migration occurs where the Vault environment is being migrated from one release to a later release (e.g. 2022 to 2023).

Migrations need to be planned out and not left too long between releases and from the current release to avoid issues with data and config migrations which ultimately leads an increase in the time and cost to migrate Vault to the designated release.

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Planning the Migration

If Vault migrations are left too long between releases or is migrated to a release that is more than 3 releases from the current, issues can arise in a migration where there are errors in configurations and database relationships due to:

  • Double and triple migrations
  • Autodesk integrating too many changes between releases and the old configuration not being supported in the new release.
  • Users may miss issues during testing and handover phase, etc.
  • Release is end of life and no longer support from Autodesk
  • Forced to do a double migration
  • Cyclical problem of too many changes between releases (being too far apart) and errors, can’t go forward until issues are resolved.
Vault double migration

What is a Double Migration?

Vault can only be migrated within 3 releases. A Vault environment on 2020 can only be migrated to 2022. If the current release in this scenario is 2023, then another migration is required to go from 2022 to 2023.

A triple migration is basically when the Vault release is far back from the desired release. In one example, Design Consulting migrated Vault from 2015 to 2017, 2017 to 2019 and then 2019 to 2021.

The time taken and steps involved to migrate are virtually replicated, resulting in a duplication in costs every time a migration is required, so planning your Vault migration is important to get the best value for money  when migrating and also have users take advantage of the additional productivity features in the new releases of Vault and CAD software.

On one hand IT may want to delay the inevitable for as long as possible to reduce their workload on a 1, 2 or 3 year interval, however, the user base can lose out on new features that makes the business more productive and if there are issues with the migration due to unforseen errors in data and configuration, any time savings in IT may be minimal compared to these aforementioned factors.

Vault migration best practices

Vault Migration Best Practices

While things get busy and there may be budgetary constraints, however, if possible, the best practice for Vault to optimise the migrations are:

  • To ensure backups are scheduled, not failing and up to date
  • Vault Server and CAD System Requirements are being met
  • Try migrating within 3 releases to avoid a double migration (2019 to 2021, 2021 to 2022 double migration costs the same as 2019 to 2021, 2021 to 2023)
  • Stay 1 release behind the latest or wait for the major service pack release to avoid any unforeseen issues.
  • Test environment – Have a compatible server, job processor (if required), CAD-level workstation, etc. as a test environment for the migration that users can connect to, before rolling it out the migrated Vault release into production.
  • For larger environments of 50x users or more, having in place a more formal ITIL framework or similar.

Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Automate Revision Control with Vault Professional

Autodesk Vault Professional enterprise data management revison control, lifecycles, bom management

Change Management Slowing Down Engineering?

Focus on design and less on admin with Autodesk Vault Professional.

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Vault Professional product data management for AutoCAD Inventor Revit

Automate Revisions, Lifecycles and Change Management with Autodesk Vault Professional

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Revision Schemes

Setup schemes and rules

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Automated Revisions

Work on the latest revision

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Lifecycle Management

Automate workflows

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Compliance

Lock files when released

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BOM's

Manage bills of materials

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Job Processor

Automate PDF, DXF, STEP, files and more

Autodesk Vault Professional

Vault Professional offers data security, compliance, audit trails and many automated data and file administration tools to speed up the design and engineering process

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Get in Touch

DC is an authorised Autodesk Reseller providing products and services for the Architecture, Engineering, Construction, Infrastructure and Manufacturing Sectors.

Feel free to contact us on 1800 490 514, [email protected], by live chat or fill out the form below.

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Is the Automotive Industry just Big Tech on Wheels?

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Is the Automotive Industry just Big Tech on Wheels?

With more and more tech going into cars with connected systems suing IoT, global positioning systems (GPS) and the technology for semi-autonomous and autonomous vehicles, will the automotive industry and big tech converge into one.

automotive big tech on wheels alias, iot, Autodesk alias autostudio, alias surface, alias concept

Transformation of the Automotive Industry

With the push for greener vehicles, more and more electronic systems and sensors, a connected digital supply chain, robotics, digital design, virtual reality and other technologies, it seems like we are already there.

automotive configurator tablet

Connected Automobiles

Our smartphones are already connected to vehicles via bluetooth and many cars have sim cards and these software platforms are all connected and can be used for consumer and industrial applications that can benefit the driver, passengers and payloads with a huge growth potential.

With these connected system, comes big data and analytics feeding into a centralised system give automobile manufacturers insights into how automobiles are being used and IoT diagnostics on component wear and tear, maintenance and failure

Manufacturing Big Tech Automotive

Most automotive factories are already using digital prototyping, design, machining and analysis software where the CAD models and metadata are used to in manufacturing processes, systems and machines to manufacture.

In the concept and design phases, virtual reality and high-end visualisation systems are used as standard, however, the automotive industry needs to be more agile and innovation to connecting not only cars to human interface devices but also other cars and systems and infrastructure that connect to cars. 

Automotive Needs More Programmers

automotive big tech iot

With today’s cars packed full of tech, the industry needs more programmers than ever to create in-built applications and integrate systems with external devices and applications.

“Today’s car infotainment systems use more than 10 million lines of code,” said Audi’s Member of the Board of Management for Marketing and Sales, Hildegaard Wortmann, speaking at NVIDIA’s GTC21 event this year. “That’s as much code as an entire vehicle needed just a few years ago.”

While the advantages of technology in cars and trucks is self-evident, the overhead to innovate, design and manage applications for essentially what is a mechanical smartphone device on wheels, adds to the cost of manufacturing and development.

What Does the Future Look Like for Automotive and Big Tech?

The Hollywood vision of driverless hybrid flying cars running on a anti-gravity fuel system is still far away but if we look at the gains we have made in the last 5 years, it’s probably not as far away as you think.

With over 50% of the workforce wanting to work from home these days, do we really need a car with all that tech if the days of being stuck in traffic for an hour or more are gone but we only have to imagine the magical drive down the ocean or trekking to the mountains and the justification of paying for all that tech and comfort makes sense in a car full of screaming kids. 

Autodesk alias autostudio, alias surface, alias concept

Contact Us

If you would learn more about Autodesk software, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.

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Graitec Powerpack addin for Inventor

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Overview

Developed for Autodesk® Inventor® users this add-in for Inventor features an assortment of new functionalities which will lead to an increase in productivity, speed up your everyday modelling, and improve your workflows.

Similarly, all manufacturing industry software users can increase control and automation within Inventor, as Advance PowerPack for Autodesk® Inventor® runs on top of the Autodesk® Inventor® Professional platform, but please note that it will not run on Inventor® LT.

Purge Tools

Features

Visibility Enhancements

Visibility enhancement tools allow you quickly choose what you want to display and what you don’t want to display.

Export File Properties

Export file properties will export all Assembly, Part, Drawing or Presentation iProperty information to a txt file.

Purge Tools

Purge tools allow you to clean up parts and assembly files by getting rid of unwanted geometry and information.

Inspection Dimension Table

Creates an inspection dimension table in any drawing that has inspection dimensions, columns include label, size and inspection rate.

Export Parts List

One click exports parts list to excel based on assembly bill of materials setup

Tolerance Table

Creates a tolerance table in any drawing that has tolerance dimensions, columns include size, shaft/hole, tolerance range and dimension range.

Export Flat Pattern

One click exports all sheet metal components of an assembly file to DXF files which also include part number, description, material and thickness.

Title Block Swap

Title block swap will replace any existing title block on a drawing with another selected title block, which will maintain all iProperty information.

Browser Name Control

Rename your browser nodes in the assembly based on summary information, design tracking properties or user defined properties.

Addins

Check out these other add-ins for Autodesk Products

Contact Us

If you would learn more about add-in software for Autodesk products, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.

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Product Design & Manufacturing Collection

Autodesk PDM Collection - Product Design & Manufacturing Collection. Includes Inventor Professional, AutoCAD, Inventor Nastran, Nesting, CAM, 3ds Max, Navisworks, Fusion 360 and more

Autodesk PDM Collection

Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection is a complete set of tools for the design, analysis, visualisation, documentation and manufacturing of products for manufacturing, industrial design, fabrication and defence.
Inventor Professional
Professional grade electromechanical 3D CAD software that can design products, plastics, sheet metal, weldments, automate, simulate, produce bills of materials, 2D fabrication level detailing and documentation.
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AutoCAD
Specialised toolsets for Architecture, Mechanical, Plant, Electrical,GIS design and drafting.
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Fusion 360
Powerful cloud based 3D CAD/CAM software for product design
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Inventor CAM
2.5 to 5 axis CAM
Learn More
Inventor Nastran
Non-Linear FEA simulation
Learn More
Navisworks Manage
Model coordination, project review, 2D/3D quantity take off, 5D scheduling and clash detection
Learn More
Estore
Get the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection on an Annual Subscription
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Premium Technical Support

Free Onboarding Session

30 Day Money Back Guarantee

Credit Cards Accepted

Overview

What is the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection?

Compare

Compare the PDM Collection to Inventor Professional and Inventor LT.

Included Software

See what software is included in the PDM Industry Collection.

Add-ons

Programs and plug-ins to boost productivity.

Blog

Learn about products, workflows and related products.

PDM Collection Overview

The Autodesk PDM Industry Collection is a compilation of software titles for the manufacturing industry which gives the ability to 3D model, design, automate, visualise, animate, simulate, document and draft designs in 2D.

  • Create high-tolerance, fabrication level detailed designs for electromechanical products and fabricated structures.

  • Optimise designs with analysis, generative design, visualisation and simulation tools.

  • End to end CAD/CAM digital prototyping solution.

Integrated CAD/CAM and Nesting

The Product Design & Manufacturing Collection comes with Inventor CAM and Inventor Nesting, being one of the few, if only product set in the market with the exceptional 3D CAD modelling and detailing features of Inventor with integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM and Nesting..

Inventor and AutoCAD Workflows

Use the right tool for the right job. Reference AutoCAD 2D CAD data into Inventor designs and drawings and detail Inventor models in AutoCAD.

Inventor and Fusion Workflows

Use Fusion 360 generative design studies to explore design alternatives and optimise product preformance or cost.

Inventor and Revit Workflows

Reference Revit projects and use Inventor BIM interoperability tools to publish BIM data to Revit and other sources.

Included Software

The most comprehensive selection of cutting-edge BIM and CAD design, visualisation and analysis software and cloud tools comes within the AEC Collection.

Inventor Professional

Tools for parts and assembly modelling, automation, sheet metal, weldments, electrical, tube & pipe, bills of materials and 2D detailing.

Fusion 360

Cloud based CAD/CAM for PC and Mac with simulation and PCB design.

Inventor Tolerance Analysis

Analyse tolerances and the impact of variations in dimensions.

AutoCAD

2D/3D design and drafting software with specialised toolsets for mechanical, electrical schematics, plant design, GIS and more.

Inventor Nesting

Integrated parametric nesting software for Inventor Professional.

Navisworks Manage

Project coordination, data aggregation, 5D scheduling, quantification, simulation and visualisation software.

Inventor CAM

Integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM for Inventor Professional with automation and simulation.

Recap Pro

Reality capture, photogrammetry and 3D scanning point cloud software.

Inventor Nastran

Non-Linear FEA integrated into Inventor Professional.

Factory Design Utilities

Process analysis and 2D/3D layout tools for AutoCAD, Inventor Professional and Navisworks.

HSM Works

Integrated 2.5 to 5 axis CAM for Solidworks.

3ds Max

3D modelling, rendering, animation and simulation software.

Autodesk Rendering

Cloud based rendering for Revit, 3ds Max, Navisworks and AutoCAD.

Autodesk Drive

Cloud storage and collaboration for CAD.

Compare

Compare the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection to other products such as Inventor Professional, AutoCAD Inventor LT suite and Inventor Professional LT.

  • PDM Collection
  • Inventor Professional
  • AutoCAD Inventor LT Suite
  • Inventor LT
PDM CollectionInventor ProfessionalAutoCAD Inventor LT SuiteInventor LT
3D Parametric Part Modelling
B-REP surfacing, solid body and multi-body part modelling
Direct Editing
Direct editing (push-pull) part modelling environment
Freeform Modelling
NURBS with T-Splines part modelling environment
Plastic Part Design
Mold and die modelling environment
Local Rendering
Ray-trace rendering on your PC
2D Design
2D design functionality in AutoCAD or AutoCAD LT
2D Drafting
2D views, annotations, leaders, etc.
3D Parametric Assembly Modelling
Place multiple parts in an assembly file and use constraints and joints to assemble
Weldments
Weldment assembly environment used with frame generator to model structural frames
Sheet Metal Modelling
Tools for sheet metal design, flat patterns and 2D symbols and annotations
Electrical Cable and Harnessing
Tools tools to route electrical cables, harnesses and detail nailboards
Electrical Schematics
Design electrical control systems and switchboards with reports such as from/to and wire lists
EMX Project
Synch between AutoCAD Electrical schematicsand Inventor Professional cable harnesses
Tube and Piping
Tools to design flexible hose, tubes and pipes
Design Automation
Simplified code and forms to automate 3D model, drawings and connect to Excel
Content Centre Library
Customisable library of parts such as steel profiles and fasteners
Draft Analysis
Analyse drafts
Clash and interference detection
Detect clashes or interferences between parts in assemblies
Material cost/impact
Ability to select a material based on the environmental/cost impact
BIM Interoperability
Prepare models and export to RFA, adsk or IFC
Point Clouds
Import point clouds via Recap
Point Cloud Pre-Processing
Tools found in Recap Pro
Bill of Materials
Create bills of materials and tabvles from parts and assemblies
AnyCAD
Associative import of CAD parts and assembly files
Application Programming Interface (API)
Install plug-ins, create plug-ins, macros and run Dynamo scripts
Linear FEA
Linear and Dynamic FEA simulation studies
Non-Linear FEA
FEA tools in Inventor Nastran
CAM
Features found in Inventor CAM and HSMWorks
Nesting
Nesting tools in Inventor Nesting
Tolerance Analysis
Features found in Inventor Tolerance Analysis
Architecture Design
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
GIS Mapping
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Raster Tools
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Plant Design
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
P&ID Schematics
Features found in AutoCAD specialised toolsets
Clash Detection
Features found in Navisworks Manage
5D Scheduling
Features found in Navisworks Manage
Project Review and Coordination
Features found in Navisworks Manage
Production Rendering and Animation
Features found in 3ds Max
Process Analysis
Bottleneck simulation and reporting for factory and assembly line layouts
Synch AutoCAD and Inventor Professional
2D/3D Factory Assets to synch AutoCAD 2D layouts with Inventor Professional 3D models

PDM Collection Add-Ons

Check out these programs and plug-ins to boost productivity even further.
Enterprise data management.
Additive manufacturing simulation and optimisation.
Cloud Collaboration with Fusion 360 Team Participant
Machine tool probing software for on machine verification and inspection.
Computational Fluid Dynamic software to simulate loads, air and fluid flows.
Injection mold simulation software

Contact Us

If you would like to learn more about Autodesk Product Design & Manufacturing Collection, please contact us by calling on 1800 490 514, by filling out the form or clicking the live chat in the bottom right-hand corner.

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3D Rack Configurator

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Want to automate 3D configurable models, 2D drawings and a bill of materials? Check out this rack configurator with 45 options using Autodesk Inventor which automates the 3D model and Bill of materials, right down to the nuts and bolts. In this video we drop in multiple racks and layout out a factory with 57,000 parts using the tools in the Autodesk…

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What’s New in Autodesk Factory Design Suite 2017

Factory Navigation rendered Moving at the Speed of Business

Building on the Factory Design Suite 2016 Feature Update Pack, the new Factory Design Suite 2017 release has a focus on Speed: faster asset publishing, quicker response times when placing assets, quicker synching between AutoCAD and Navisworks and Asset Management: improvements in the lighter assets, working with parameters, better Vault integration and more functions and editing capabilities of assets. Here’s the list Included Software…

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How Nissan Motorsport utilise Autodesk Technology

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In 2012, Kelly Racing started up Nissan Motorsport for the V8 Supercar championship. I had the pleasure of visiting the site in Braeside today with Autodesk and taking a tour with Craig Spencer, who is General Manager of Technical And Engineering Operations. Craig has a wealth of experience most recently moving from the Mercedez-Benz Formula 1 team to join Kelly Racing….

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What is #TheFutureofMakingThings ?

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Autodesk has launched The Future of Making Things. A vision of how they see future human and business interaction with technology when it comes to engineering, design, analysis and collaboration. At the Autodesk University Keynote address in December, 2014,  Jeff Kowalski, Autodesk SVP and Chief Technology Officer, discussed how Autodesk is looking at technology and design through the lens of…

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Autodesk Releases Nastran 2015 and Nastran In-CAD 2015

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Adding to the Moldflow, Algor & CFDesign Line Up, Autodesk is now shipping Nastran 2015 and Nastran In-CAD 2015 for an integrated environment for Soldiworks and Inventor. With a great reputation in the industry the Nastran solver does FEA linear and non-linear analysis. The solver is also integrated into Autodesks Simulation Mechanical (Local Machine) and Simulation Flex which is…

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Autodesk Inventor 2016 – Alpha

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I just logged into Autodesk Beta and checked out the new enhancements and downloaded Alpha. If you thought 2015 was a kick-ass release, from what I’m seeing in the Autodesk Inventor 2016 Alpha… Wow! As I’m binded by confidentiality, I can’t say anything specific except that they are doing some great work over at Autodesk with the help of the…

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Autodesk Inventor 2015 – Sheet Metal Enhancements

Autodesk Inventor Professional 3D mechanical CAD software

With sheet metal design being an integral part of many Inventor customers, the new features and enhancements are always taken with great interest, so here’s a video I put together: So What’s New in Sheet Metal for Inventor 2015 Rename End Of Part (EOP) to End Of Folded (EOF) for sheet metal parts Enhanced orientation control in…

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What’s New in Autodesk Inventor 2015

gickr com 5542d49a 9ad1 a7d4 bdae 3533832576c1 Moving at the Speed of Business

Hybrid Parametric Direct Editing, N.U.R.B.S with T-Splines and more… Inventor 2015 is one of the best releases yet, unlike any other CAD tool on the market today because it not only delivers enhancements to existing tools and UI but adds new technology that makes this product so unique. There’s 2 big additions and many enhancements, so in this article…

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Leveraging on Engineering to Drive Sales and Increase Profitability

autocad mechcanical Moving at the Speed of Business

Use Your Existing Engineering & Design Investment to Make Money & Save Time. Engineering for some companies can be seen as a cost, requiring resources and energy to engineer, design, research and develop. Using the right tools can reduce design cycles, errors and time and also create better products that will generate more profit but what about using those…

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Automate 3D CAD Design with Autodesk Inventor’s iLogic

ilogic Moving at the Speed of Business

Conveyor Pulleys Australia Improves Productivity in 3D Modelling, Quoting & Ordering by at least 50%. When CPA moved their designs from AutoCAD to Inventor, it’s fair to say they increased productivity by around 50%, but by automating with Inventor using its iLogic module, they reduced engineering design, quoting and ordering processes by at least another 50% and what used…

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What Are The Best Tools For Factory Design and Management? Pt. 2

factory design suite option b Moving at the Speed of Business

The Foundation of Factory Design Suite Part 1 summarised the challenges and some of the tools used in designing and managing a Factory/Facility. This part focuses on Autodesk’s solution that addresses these challenges and subsequent posts will cover working with existing layouts, creating new layouts, analysis (process analysis, machine utilisation & energy consumption), visualisation and linking Factory Design Suite with…

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What Are The Best Tools For Factory Design & Management?

A Way To Address Factory Layouts, Engineering, Sales, Lean Manufacturing, Made to Order, Scheduling & Production Planning Challenges. The design and management of a factory involves many tools and stakeholders. Engineers can design the facilities layout with architectural structures, conveyors, materials handling,  process equipment, safety equipment, office furniture, storage, building utilities (MEP), robots, spray booths, pits, platforms freezers, forklifts and humans,…

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What Do You Mean it’s a Parametric Video?

Project Chronicle: Bringing CAD and Video into One. This Free Technology Preview from Autodesk is really ingenious. It’s a recording utility for CAD & Design Programs that not only records video screen capture and voice narration but also records and shows below the video software gestures too with a timeline chronicle of the sequence of commands, dialogue boxes, files and…

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Motion Assembly Constraints Made Easy

        Constraining components can be time consuming. What if you could click two parts and the computer figured out the relationship and mated the two components together? You’d then specify the limitations and move onto the next task. The New Joints Command does just that in Autodesk Inventor 2014. It builds on Inventors Constraint and Assemble Commands…

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Project Falcon: Wind Tunnel Simulation

flow design Moving at the Speed of Business

This free technology preview is available from Autodesk Labs, and will simulate air flow around buildings, vehicles, outdoor equipment, consumer products or other objects in a virtual wind tunnel. Open your 2D or 3D model, set the wind direction (angle), speed (velocity) and analyse the flow. There are analysis settings for dimensions, resolution and 3D drag too. There are…

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When Your CAD Data Needs to Work With Architects Using Revit

Revit Interoperability: Getting your 3D Mechanical CAD to work Revit CAD files & BIM-MEP AUS Compliance. The AEC (Architecture, Engineering & Construction) sector has long been using Revit for their 3D design of buildings and structures, but what happens if you’re a manufacturer of pumps or you fabricate staircases and your client requests files in Revit? How do you…

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Autodesk Pushes Further Into Automotive Space

The Recent Acquisitions of VSR & Delcam Make It a Serious Player It’s pretty clear what Autodesk’s goal is; World Domination! It’s got it’s fingers in every industry that uses software for engineering and design. In Automotive, Autodesk’s acquisition of Alias, gave it a foot in the door, adding Class-A Surfacing tools to their MCAD portfolio, and in many countries,…

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Will Autodesk Have an Answer for Tekla?

Autodesk Acquire Graitec for Structural Steel  & Concrete Fabrication and Detailing On October 2, 2013, Autodesk annouced they acquired Graitec who have AutoCAD add-ons for structural steel and concrete. A while back they acquired a polish company for an AutoCAD structural steel detailing package, re-branded it AutoCAD Structural Detailing (ASD) and eventually incorporated it into Plant Design Suite Premium and Building Design Suite…

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