Autodesk Inventor is a solid modeling program developed by Autodesk Inc. It is a parametric and feature-based tool.

The parametric nature of this tool enables you to define the dimensions of a model in terms of parameters, which can drive a model to the desired shape. For example, you can draw a circle of any diameter, then apply dimensions, and force it to the required diameter.

Its feature-based nature enables you to create a model that is a combination of individual features. Each feature in this model is an individual object, which you can modify at any point of time. This gives you the flexibility of editing the design at any stage.

This ReferencePoint gives an overview of the modeling process using Autodesk Inventor. It introduces sketching, and the part and assembly modeling environments of Autodesk Inventor.

Overview of Autodesk Inventor 5

All modules of Autodesk Inventor are bidirectionally associated. As a result, a modification made in any component in a particular module, is automatically highlighted when you open that component in any other module. For example, consider the assembly shown in Figure 2-1-1:

Figure 2-1-1: Assembly in Autodesk Inventor

The main component in the Part module of Autodesk Inventor is shown in Figure 2-1-2:

Figure 2-1-2: Component in the Part Module

Modify the dimensions of the central hole of the two main components that are assembled using the bolts, as shown in Figure 2-1-3:

Figure 2-1-3: Modified Assembly

These changes will be automatically highlighted in the model...