Autodesk Inventor
Professional 3D CAD Software for Product Design
Inventor gives engineers and manufacturers everything they need to model complex parts, validate performance, and create production-ready designs—all in one powerful 3D CAD platform.
“Generally, the goal is to have about two projects per week per drafter. The tank automation has the ability to whittle that down…to a couple of days to do the job.”
What Is Autodesk Inventor?
Autodesk Inventor is professional-grade 3D CAD software built for engineers, designers, and manufacturers who need to create, simulate, and document products with precision. Combining parametric, direct, and freeform modeling, Inventor enables complete 3D mechanical design, visualization, and product simulation within one powerful platform.
With Autodesk Inventor Professional, users can design everything from simple parts to complex assemblies, using integrated tools that connect the entire design process, from concept modeling and analysis to documentation and production. The software’s digital prototyping capability helps teams predict performance, identify errors, and bring great products to market faster.
Why Engineering Teams Choose Autodesk Inventor
Thousands of manufacturers and product designers worldwide rely on Inventor software to turn concepts into production-ready models. Its intuitive interface and robust tool set reduce the learning curve for beginners while providing advanced functionality for professional engineers and designers.
Inventor stands out because it supports:
- Parametric and 3D modeling for precise component and assembly modeling.
- Built-in simulation tools to validate design intent and mechanical performance.
- Automation features like iLogic for rule-based design and configuration.
- Visualization and animation tools to communicate design intent clearly.
- Integration with Autodesk Vault for file management and collaboration.
The result is faster innovation, fewer revisions, and a streamlined path from idea to final product.
“All the ways this tool can help us are so exciting. Our designers can turn around a quote much more quickly, while the automation expedites the steps to put the system together. The simplicity and efficiency widens the net on who can participate in our design process.”
Autodesk Inventor Professional: Advanced Design and Simulation
For advanced users, Autodesk Inventor Professional adds specialized capabilities for mechanical design, simulation, and manufacturing planning.
- Dynamic simulation and stress analysis tools for real-world validation.
- Automation through iLogic, reducing repetitive work and ensuring accuracy.
- Interoperability with Fusion, AutoCAD LT, and Maya for modeling and rendering.
- Integration with Navisworks for design review and coordination.
- Support for common file formats like STEP and IGES to enable cross-platform collaboration.
Autodesk Inventor Automation, Consulting, Learning, and Support
Whether you’re new to Inventor or ready to explore its new features, KETIV helps every step of the way.
- Automation, custom scripting, consulting, and project management to deliver world-class design automation.
- Personalized training for beginners and advanced users from our free KETIV Virtual Academy to personalized one-on-one mentoring.
- Expert help with Autodesk Vault integration, data migration, and workflow setup.
Our engineers help you get the most out of Autodesk Inventor software by streamlining your design process and supporting your journey from concept to production.
Meet our Inventor experts
Justin CaoApplication Engineer
Tiffany HaydenApplication Developer
Cameron WhettenApplication Engineer
Marco TrinidadApplication Engineer
Nathan EliasonTechnical Solutions Specialist
Frequently Asked Autodesk Inventor Questions
Q: What does Autodesk Inventor do?
Q: Which is better, AutoCAD or Inventor?
Both AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor are industry-leading design tools, but they serve different purposes. AutoCAD is ideal for 2D drafting, layout planning, and general design documentation, while Inventor specializes in 3D mechanical design, simulation, and product modeling.
If you need to create parametric 3D models, perform simulation, or design manufacturing assemblies, Inventor is the better choice. For 2D drawings, AutoCAD remains a strong companion; many professionals use both together for a complete design workflow.
Q: How do I go from AutoCAD 2D design to 3D design in Inventor?
Q: Is AutoCAD Inventor free?
Transitioning from a 2D Drawing to a 3D Model with Autodesk
Get started with Autodesk Inventor
Ready to design innovative products with professional-grade 3D CAD software? Autodesk Inventor gives your team the power to model, simulate, and document designs confidently. Whether you’re refining a mechanical part, building a large assembly, or exploring generative design, Inventor provides the capability and precision engineers need to create great products.
With Autodesk Inventor, you can:
- Streamline the design process from concept to final product
- Connect your team through collaboration and Autodesk Vault
- Reduce the learning curve for beginners with intuitive modeling tools
- Bring ideas to life with realistic 3D models, animations, and simulations