Freestyle (branded as Freeform) is used to organically shape objects like clay, meaning that models can be defined quickly and easily. Inventor supports the three traditional methods of 3D modelling: freestyle, parametric, and direct. Built upon its powerful modelling capabilities, Inventor has both native and additional tool-sets that aid in simulation, rendering, computer aided manufacturing (CAM), and product data management (PDM). InventorĪs Autodesk’s flagship 3D modelling tool, Inventor provides a host of features for all steps of a product’s development process. AutoCAD Mechanical also provides many specific industry-oriented features, such as automated bill of materials (BOM) creation. Its main purpose is to provide over 700,000 commonly used parts, ideal for any mechanical design work. Previously an addon for AutoCAD, AutoCAD Mechanical is now a native toolset for the base AutoCAD product. This platform lets users easily share CAD data, providing version control and in-browser previewing. Not surprisingly, AutoCAD has evolved greatly in 35+ years, now featuring a variety of modelling capabilities and interconnectivity with Autodesk’s overreaching cloud platform. This seemingly simple goal was revolutionary in its execution, moving every engineer’s workflow from pen and paper to mouse and keyboard. Older than Microsoft Windows, AutoCAD was Autodesk’s first product and was made with a very specific goal: to provide consumers the ability to create 2D schematics/drawings that can be easily edited. While other CAD programs existed, AutoCAD was the first of these programs to run on a personal computer, meaning that it could be easily distributed and used by educators, businesses, and individuals.Īutodesk has since expanded from their home in CAD, providing products for 3D modelling, design, simulation, animation, and even photorealistic rendering.

While they might not have been the first of their kind, they became the primary brand associated with the industry, making these companies found within niche communities almost household names.Īutodesk was this pioneer in the world of computer aided design/engineering (CAD/CAE) when they launched AutoCAD in 1982.

Every industry has had its own set of pioneering companies who paved the way for all those who came after them.

Used autodesk autocad software