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December 16, 2013

Autodesk Labs - 2D to 3D Tool for Inventor Updated

Autodesk Labs has updated their 2D to 3D Tool for Inventor to fully support Inventor 2014.

This free technology preview allows you to quickly create 3D models of 2D-designed parts with an add-in utility for Autodesk Inventor software. Activated as part of file import, the 2D to 3D Tool automatically transforms drawing views into orthogonal sketches, significantly streamlining the preparation of 2D views for 3D uses.

Here are the versions of Inventor that are supported:
  • Autodesk Inventor 2014
  • Autodesk Inventor 2013
  • Autodesk Inventor 2012
  • Autodesk Inventor 2011
  • Autodesk Inventor 2010
  • Autodesk Inventor 2009
  • Autodesk Inventor 2008
  • Autodesk Inventor 11
The technology preview will operate until December 21, 2014.

2D to 3D Tool for Autodesk Inventor

Image Credits: Autodesk Labs

November 7, 2013

Inventor 2013 - Update 3 for Service Pack 2

Autodesk has just released Update 3 for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.
This Update is cumulative and includes all changes contained in Update 1 and Update 2.

Here is what is addressed in Update 3:
  • Renaming material in the library can brake the link to material in sheet metal rules
  • Bolted Connection - automatic solver issues in DACC
  • COG disappears from the drawing view instead of being updated
  • Online help not available when proxy server is used
  • Projected geometry is not in the correct position when Break View is applied 
  • Properties are not updated by Frame Generator
  • Impossible to use i-drop functionality
  • Assembly can´t be opened from Productstream Professional if default view is deleted
  • Frame Generator Change Member size results in .000197 being added to length
  • Inventor cannot be launched on Windows 8.1
  • Unexpected exit when using Cut Across Bend
  • Unexpected exit at FindLibrary method in CM code
Here is a link to download Update 3 for Inventor 2013 SP2 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:

  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2013
  • Autodesk Inventor 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2013

November 4, 2013

Inventor 2014 - Update 1 for Service Pack 1

Autodesk has just released Update 1 for Inventor 2014 Service Pack 1.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2014 Service Pack 1.

Here is what is addressed in Update 1:
  • Impossible to use i-drop functionality
  • Ambient Shadows show through the transparent components when zooming within the assembly
  • Projected geometry is not in the correct position when Break View is applied
  • Properties are not updated by Frame Generator
  • Unable to insert view into Model Space after migrating Style to Inventor 2014
  • Online help not available when proxy server is used
  • Assembly can´t be opened from Productstream Professional if default view is deleted
  • Unexpected exit when an invalid path to document is set using Document.FullFileName
  • Unexpected exit when attempting to run macro
  • Unexpected exit when using Cut Across Bend
  • Unexpected exit when placing assembly with cache graphics and design views into a new assembly
Here is a link to download Update 1 for Inventor 2014 SP1 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:

  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2014
  • Autodesk Inventor 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2014

October 2, 2013

3Dconnexion Goes Wireless with the SpaceMouse Wireless

3Dconnexion has announced a new product in their lineup. SpaceMouse Wireless is the latest addition to 3Dconnexion’s line of professional 3D mice and the only one that is wireless. For the first time, 3Dconnexion’s 6-degrees-of-freedom sensor is combined with 3Dconnexion 2.4 GHz wireless technology and a rechargeable battery to deliver the reliability of a wired device, without the clutter of cords.

It is currently available at a suggested retail price of $129.

Here is a link on Amazon where you can purchase this device, Click Here...

Listed below are the key points of the new SpaceMouse Wireless:

Wireless Freedom

Connecting SpaceMouse Wireless couldn’t be easier. Simply pop the micro-USB receiver in your PC or Mac and leave it there, while you enjoy a real-time connection to your 3D content.

Flexible Recharging

You’ll never have to cope without SpaceMouse Wireless thanks to its impressively long battery life of up to one month and corded or un-corded operation.

When it does need some juice the supplied micro-USB cable handles re-charging and data at the same time. Just connect and continue working.

Stylish Design

Everything about SpaceMouse Wireless says attention to detail, from its small footprint and brushed steel base to its two conveniently positioned buttons.

Easy to Use

Each SpaceMouse Wireless button opens its own radial menu providing convenient mouse-click access to four application commands.





Technical Specification

  • 3Dconnexion six-degrees-of-freedom
    (6Dof) sensor
  • 3Dconnexion 2.4GHz wireless technology
  • Lithium-ion polymer battery (internal, rechargeable)
  • Micro-USB connectivity (cable supplied).
    Simultaneous data and recharging.
  • Dimensions (LxWxH): 78x78x54mm / 3.1"x3.1"x2.1”
  • Weight: 424g / 0.93lb
  • 2-year warranty

Package Contents

  • SpaceMouse Wireless
  • Micro-USB Receiver
  • Micro-USB Cable
  • CD ROM: Drivers, Demos and Tools
Image Credits: 3dConnexion

September 20, 2013

Inventor 2014 - Service Pack 1

Autodesk has now released Service Pack 1(SP1) for Inventor 2014. Here are the details regarding what is included in the SP1.

Here is the link to download Inventor 2014 SP1 32-bit, Click Here...
Here is the link to download Inventor 2014 SP1 64-bit, Click Here...

Here is a link for the Readme file, Click Here...





September 18, 2013

AutoCAD 2014 Service Pack 1

Autodesk has released Service Pack 1 (SP1) for AutoCAD 2014.

Here is a link to download AutoCAD 2014 SP1 32-bit, Click Here...
Here is a link to download AutoCAD 2014 SP1 64-bit, Click Here...

Here is a link for the Readme file, Click Here…

This Service Pack can be applied to AutoCAD 2014 installed as a standalone application as well as AutoCAD 2014 installed from the following Autodesk Design Suites.
  • AutoCAD Design Suite 2014
  • Autodesk Building Design Suite 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite 2014
  • Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite 2014
  • Autodesk Plant Design Suite 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite 2014
Here are the details regarding what is included in the SP1.

September 12, 2013

Autodesk University 2013 - Register Now

Autodesk University 2013 (aka... AU 2013) is coming closer, and today September 12 you can register for the event. This year it is being held on December 3-5 at The Venetian Hotel, Las Vegas. Save up to $500 if you register by October 20, 2013.

http://au.autodesk.com/

Here are the AU conference costs:

AU 2013 Class Catalog Now Open!

The AU 2013 class catalog contains over 700 classes. Check out the classes that interest you View the catalog.

Image Credits: Autodesk University

September 10, 2013

Autodesk Announces New Subscription Pay-As-You-Go

Autodesk customers will now be able to pay as they go for all of the company’s latest Design and Creation Suites, Autodesk 3ds Max, Autodesk Maya, and the new Autodesk Maya LT.

For the first time, customers can purchase access to a range of Autodesk desktop software on a monthly, quarterly or annual basis, in addition to traditional licenses, broadly expanding choices in how to access and pay for Autodesk software. It’s never been more cost effective for designers, engineers and visual effects artists to get started with Autodesk software with virtually no up-front capital costs, and to quickly ramp up projects using industry-leading Autodesk software.

Customers who choose to purchase monthly, quarterly or annual rental plans will receive similar benefits to Autodesk Subscription customers including staying current with the latest product updates, access to select Autodesk 360 cloud services and basic support.

Rental licenses include these software titles:
  • AutoCAD Design Suite
  • AutoCAD Inventor LT Suite
  • AutoCAD Revit LT Suite
  • Building Design Suite
  • Entertainment Creation Suite
  • Factory Design Suite
  • Infrastructure Design Suite
  • Plant Design Suite
  • Product Design Suite
  • 3ds Max
  • Infraworks 360 Pro
  • Maya
  • Maya LT
  • Roadway Design for InfraWorks 360 Pro
Here are some of the pricing plans:

AutoCAD Design Suite
  • Standard
    • $285 Monthly
    • $850 Quarterly
    • $2,265 Annual
    • $4,525 Perpetual
  • Premium
    • $330 Monthly
    • $985 Quarterly
    • $2,625 Annual
    • $5,245 Perpetual
  • Ultimate
    • $385 Monthly
    • $1,180 Quarterly
    • $3,150 Annual
    • $6,295 Perpetual
AutoCAD Inventor LT Suite
  • $95 Monthly
  • $280 Quarterly
  • $750 Annual
  • $1,495 Perpetual
Factory Design Suite
  • Standard
    • $360 Monthly
    • $1,085 Quarterly
    • $2,890 Annual
    • $5,775 Perpetual
  • Premium
    • $425 Monthly
    • $1,280 Quarterly
    • $3,415 Annual
    • $6,825 Perpetual
  • Ultimate
    • $655 Monthly
    • $1,970 Quarterly
    • $5,250 Annual
    • $10,495 Perpetual
Product Design Suite
  • Standard
    • $315 Monthly
    • $940 Quarterly
    • $2,500 Annual
    • $4,995 Perpetual
  • Premium
    • $470 Monthly
    • $1,405 Quarterly
    • $3,750 Annual
    • $7,495 Perpetual
  • Ultimate
    • $625 Monthly
    • $1,875 Quarterly
    • $5,000 Annual
    • $9,995 Perpetual
Pricing for all of the other Suites can be found here: http://www.autodesk.com/buy/us-prices
And here are the rest of the details for the rental licenses: http://www.autodesk.com/buy/rental-plans

September 5, 2013

Inventor 2013 - Update 2 for Service Pack 2

Autodesk has just released Update 2 for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.
This Update is cumulative and includes all changes contained in Update 1

Here is what is addressed in Update 2:
  • Bolted connection is not able to machine more than two parts at the same time
  • Color/material library migrates incorrectly with non-English Inventor versions
  • If you turn on hidden line for a particular part in the drawing view of an assembly, Inventor shows hidden interference edges of whole assembly instead of that particular part
  • Stability enhancements
Here is a link to download Update 2 for Inventor 2013 SP2 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:

  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2013
  • Autodesk Inventor 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2013

July 12, 2013

Inventor HSM Express - Beta Invitation - Free CAM Solution for Inventor Users

This just came in from the Product Manager of CAM for Autodesk, Anthony Graves.

Next week the Autodesk CAM Team will launch the official Public Beta of Inventor HSM Express, a free 2-1/2 Axis CAM solution for Inventor users.

Powered by HSMWorks CAM technology, Inventor HSM Express has all the capabilities of HSMXpress – the Free CAM Solution for SolidWorks and is seamlessly integrated inside the design environment of Autodesk Inventor. This integration allows Inventor users to take advantage of workflow and tools they are used to when programming CNC toolpaths for their 2.5D machining projects.

If you are an experienced Inventor user we could really use your help. Our goal is to have a CAM solution so tightly integrated with Inventor that you don’t perceive any difference when switching between the modeling environment and the CAM environment. Your feedback is crucial in helping us achieve this goal. And, for those of you with CNC programming experience, we would love to hear your first impressions in working with our new CAM tools.

For those of you who would like to participate in our Beta but don’t have Inventor you may download a 30-day trial here:

http://www.autodesk.com/products/autodesk-inventor-family/free-trial

To participate in the Inventor HSM Express Beta and watch a quick preview of Inventor HSM Express, simply click on the link below:

https://beta.autodesk.com/callout/?callid=22396638F5374AC28E2F1A24CC7EEFA8

On behalf of the entire Autodesk CAM Team,

Anthony Graves
Product Manager, CAM
Autodesk Inc.

July 11, 2013

Inventor 2013 - Update 1 for Service Pack 2

Autodesk has just released Update 1 for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2013 Service Pack 2.

Here is what is addressed in Update 1:
  • Content Center parts material displays long string in assembly BOM
  • iPart created from part with one feature and no dimensions generates empty children
  • Unexpected exit when Loading idw
  • Stability enhancements
Here is a link to download Update 1 for Inventor 2013 SP2 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:

  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2013
  • Autodesk Inventor 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2013

July 10, 2013

Inventor 2014 - Update 2 Released

Autodesk has just released Update 2 for Inventor 2014.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2014.

Here is what is addressed in Update 2:
  • Older VBA code is not working properly
  • Shaded views are not showing correct in drawing with zoom
  • Inconsistent behavior when Copy and Paste of components where file path is long
  • Layout constraint context menu command is missing
  • One side of brake line show unshaded when creating break in a shaded projected view
  • Bolted connection is not able to machine more than two parts at the same time
  • Unexpected exit when Loading idw
  • Stability enhancement
Here is a link to download Update 2 for Inventor 2014 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:

  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2014
  • Autodesk Inventor 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2014

July 2, 2013

AutoCAD 2014 - Lynn Allen's Tips & Tricks

Here is Lynn Allen's annual release of her Tips & Tricks Booklet for AutoCAD 2014. It is a quick snippet of What's New in the latest release. It is definitely a good resource to keep handy when you first dig into the new release, you can go through all of the hot points right away. For anybody that doesn't know about Lynn Allen, here is her Blog where you can find all kinds of information about Autodesk. You can find this one and all of the previous years on my Link bar above under Lynn Allen AutoCAD.

Lynn Allen's Blog

Inventor 2014 What's New Document

I have now posted the What's New document on my website for everybody to view. You can either access it on my separate page where all of the What's New documents are posted dating back all the way to Inventor Version 11, Link Here...

Or, you can access just the 2014 version directly from here, Inventor 2014 What's New

I have also updated the Inventor What's New Page with the 2012 and the 2013 What's New Documents.

June 25, 2013

Autodesk Fusion 360





Autodesk, Inc. today delivered the world’s first cloud-based software created specifically for people looking to fuse stunning aesthetic design with great product engineering. Autodesk Fusion 360 brings together capabilities typically found in separate mechanical, industrial and conceptual design tools into one, easy to use cloud-based service.

Fusion 360 offers a radically intuitive user experience, secure access to design information and integrated social collaboration features. Customers can design faster, work anywhere and share with anyone.

Pricing and Availability
Fusion 360 is available immediately. It is free for the next 90 days, and upon expiration of the 90-day initial offer will be available for purchase from the Autodesk e-store for $25 per month, per user, based on annual contract commitment. Special pricing is available for students and entrepreneurs.


June 10, 2013

Autodesk Exchange App Store - New Apps for Subscription Customers

Autodesk has added 2 new apps to the Inventor Exchange App Store. The only thing, they are only available for Subscription customers only. Both of these Apps are compatible with Inventor 2013 and Inventor 2014. Link to App Store

The first one is Mesh Enabler:
The Mesh Enabler application converts mesh features to solid base features or surface features. This function can be applied to individual or multi-selected mesh features or mesh feature folders.

After installing Mesh Enabler, right click on one or more imported mesh features of interest, and convert them into Base features (solids, surfaces, or composites) through a new context menu command. The graphical mesh data is converted into B-Rep Model data that can be used similar to imported solids and surfaces.














The second one is Feature Recognition:


The Feature Recognition application converts neutral 3D CAD models, such as STEP, SAT, or IGES solids, into full-featured Autodesk Inventor models. Feature mapping could be executed automatically or interactively as needed to maintain design intent.







May 23, 2013

AutoCAD 2013 SP2 Released

Autodesk has released Service Pack 2 (SP2) for AutoCAD 2013.

Here is the link to download AutoCAD 2013 SP2 32-bit, Click Here...
Here is the link to download AutoCAD 2013 SP2 64-bit, Click Here...

Here is a link for the Readme file, Click Here…

This Service Pack can be applied to AutoCAD 2013 installed as a standalone application as well as AutoCAD 2013 installed from the following Autodesk Design Suites.
  • AutoCAD Design Suite 2013
  • Autodesk Building Design Suite 2013
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite 2013
  • Autodesk Infrastructure Design Suite 2013
  • Autodesk Plant Design Suite 2013
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite 2013
The following operating systems are also now officially supported for 32-bit and 64-bit AutoCAD 2013 with Service Pack 2.
  • Windows 8 Standard edition
  • Windows 8 Enterprise edition
  • Windows 8 Professional edition

Here are the details regarding what is included in the SP2.

May 9, 2013

Inventor 2013 - Service Pack 2 Released

Autodesk has now released Service Pack 2 for Inventor 2013.

Here are the details regarding what is included in the SP2 for 2013.

Cable & Harness
  • Cannot import Cable & Harness libraries in Japanese Inventor 2012 SP2
  • When autorouting more than 30 wires at a time, performance is extremely slow
Tube & Pipe
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you click Hose Length command
API
  • SurfaceEvaluator.GetXXX methods get a run-time error
  • Cannot insert AutoCAD DWG into a sketch using the DWG TranslatorAddIn.Open method
  • Other products (such as RADF Viewer) cannot open the SAT file that was generated by DataIO.WriteDataToFile with the ACIS SAT format
Application Functionality
  • The Create New File dialog box takes too long to open when the template folder is a network Universal Naming Conversion path
  • If you use a mapped network drive as a templates path, parent folders of the templates folder are exposed in the Create New File dialog box
  • In the Create New File dialog box, in Details view, if you reorder or resize the width of the columns, the layout reverts to default the next time you open the dialog box
  • The Create New File dialog box lists all folders that are on the same level as the template folder
Assembly Modeling
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits after generating too many iAssembly members in one assembly
  • In Constraint dialog box, when you set a parameter input using Display as an expression, the parameter does not work correctly
  • In the Assembly in-place edit environment, the Redefine Feature command for UCS is disabled
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you in-place edit a subassembly feature
  • When you drive one constraint between components that have an activated Contact set, the performance is worse in R2013 than in R2012
Content Center
  • Custom material disappears after you migrate a Content Center library from 2012 to 2013
  • You cannot place a part from Content Center after you migrate the custom library from 2011 to 2013
Direct Manipulation
  • The preview of a workplane that you create with 3D sketch geometry is sometimes incorrect
Drawing Manager
  • In a break view, projected geometries are not in the correct position
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you insert a sketch symbol
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you move a sketch symbol after deleting one of the sheets of the drawing
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you open a drawing that was created in R7
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you move cursor, zoom in or zoom out while updating a drawing view
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you drag a hole table from one sheet to another
Enhanced Visualization
  • The shaded style of a Drawing view is not maintained after you click the view or other Drawing views
Frame Generator
  • Cannot select a mirrored 3D sketch when you attempt to insert it into frame generator
  • Notch fails in some custom structural shapes
iLogic
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you try to select iLogic Copy Design if .NET Framework 4.5 is installed on the machine
Materials/Appearances
  • The Material or Appearance thumbnail does not update correctly when you import a legacy style
  • The Material or Appearance thumbnail does not update correctly after you change the appearance color in the material or appearance editor
  • If you save an appearance to a library which contains the same assets and select "keep both" to create a duplicated one, you cannot apply it to any object
  • Mass value does not update in the drawing part list when you change material from the quick access tool bar or material browser
  • Appearance in-used can be deleted from appearance browser
  • The thumbnail of a material or appearance is incorrect when you migrate legacy xmls to a new or existing library
  • The material name in the document library changes after you rename the same material in the Autodesk library, Inventor library, or user library
Part Modeling
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you measure an object in a Face Draft preview
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you extract an iFeature
Sheetmetal
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you create a corner seam in sheet metal
Sketch
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you edit the sketch of a sheetmetal feature
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you drag the endpoint of a line in some 2D sketches
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you add a dimension between projected profiles
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you click Edit Pattern in some 2D sketches
  • Inventor unexpectedly exits when you scale a sketch
Translators
  • Get wrong bounding box when you open an STL file with Template Units in Options dialog box
  • DWF publish time shows nearly 300% regression in SP1.1 compared to Inventor 2013


Here is the link to download Inventor 2013 SP2 32-bit, Click Here...
Here is the link to download Inventor 2013 SP2 64-bit, Click Here...

Here is a link for the Readme file, Click Here...

Inventor 2014 - Update 1 Released

Autodesk has just released Update 1 for Inventor 2014.

This Update addresses multiple issues for Inventor 2014.

Here is what is addressed in Update 1:
  • Many duplicate occurrences shown in browser of IPN's following assembly demote/promote
  • Create New dialog does not remember the size and order of column in details view
  • Mass property is not available after migration
  • Min and Max values for Hole patching are not stored
  • View remains raster after selecting Precise view
  • iFeature insert dialog will show "Create Package" instead of the description of the iFeature
  • Copying a material in the category will corrupt that material from the library
  • Unable to change icon of existing custom category in Content Center Library
  • Adding a material will flag existing file as out of date and unnecessarily replace/update appearances
  • Weldment iAssemblies still looking for the obsolete "Use as Weldment Material" setting
  • Highlight effect when mouse hover on geometry is not as good as full mode when create Dimension/Baseline/Ordinate annotation in Raster View
  • GraphicsNode.RenderStyle has no effect on the graphics entity
  • The translator addin imports the DWG into sketch with wrong units if custom units specified
  • Legacy Section View displays incorrect line
  • Title block incorrectly displayed on Zoom when multiple files opened
  • Decreased performance when selecting all assets
  • Decreased performance when select Derive menu Other Tab
  • Slow shut down of InventorViewCompute.exe even after Inventor main window closes
  • Unexpected exit when make all views raster and make all views precise
  • Unexpected exit when switching to Full from Express mode
  • Unexpected exit when click adjust with customized project setting
  • Unexpected exit when rotating large assembly
  • Unexpected exit when dragging materials in user library
  • Unexpected exit when Load Express
  • Unexpected exit when starting Inventor from Factory Design Suite
  • Unexpected exit due to Non-transacted AddTriangleGraphics
 
Here is a link to download Update 1 for Inventor 2014 - Click Here...
Both the 32-bit and 64-bit are included in the download.
Here is a link for the Readme File - Click Here...

This update covers the following products:
  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2014
  • Autodesk Inventor 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Factory Design Suite Ultimate 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Premium 2014
  • Autodesk Product Design Suite Ultimate 2014

May 8, 2013

Autodesk Labs - Design Checker for Inventor

Design Checker for Inventor software is a free technology preview of a productivity solution used to give a designer insight into the adherence of standards for the product being designed. Live checking provides instant feedback on the adherence to company and customer standards, as well as ensures a high level of quality for the entire design process.

Design Checker can be configured to define not only what type of features are checked, but also the standards that dictate if a check passes or fails. Custom checks can also be defined. These configurations are stored in a Profile and can be separated into different work environments (Parts, Drawings, Assemblies). This allows Profiles to be created that define different checks for different product types, different customers, or any other end user variances. By changing profiles, Design Checker checks the models based on the rules defined in that profile.

Right now Design Checker is available for Inventor 2013 & Inventor 2012. If the Labs team need more of a wider audience they will include Inventor 2014 at a later date. This technology preview will operate until February 10, 2014.

Download Design Checker for Inventor 2012 or Inventor 2013

Image Credits: Autodesk Labs

April 23, 2013

AutoCAD 2014 What's New Document

I have now posted the What's New document on my website for everybody to view. You can either access it on my separate page where all of the What's New documents are posted dating back all the way to AutoCAD 2004, Link Here...

Or, you can access just the 2014 version directly from here, AutoCAD 2014 What's New

I will be posting the Inventor 2014 What's New when it becomes available.

April 12, 2013

Inventor 2014 & AutoCAD 2014 - Free Trial

Autodesk has now released the downloads so you can try out AutoCAD 2014 & Inventor 2014 for a 30-day trial. Also, these are full functioning copies of the 2014 releases, no features are missing. You can run it through its paces to decide for yourself if you are going to upgrade or purchase it as a standalone or in a product suite.

Here is the link for the AutoCAD 2014 30-day free trial, Click Here...

Here is the link for the Inventor 2014 30-day free trial, Click Here...

So head on over to the links and give them a try.





April 10, 2013

Inventor 2012 SP2 Update 3 Released

I know, Inventor 2014 was just released, but if you are behind a little on which version you are using then this is for you. Autodesk has just released Update 3 for Inventor 2012 SP2. This Update addresses multiplie issues for Inventor 2012 SP2. This Update is cumulative and includes all changes in Update 1 & Update 2.

Here is what is fixed in Update 1 & Update 2.

Here is what is fixed in Update 3:
  • Unable to sync styles between PartsList and library
  • Okay button is disabled when editing an extrusion
  • Flat pattern error occurs when corner seam is applied
  • Unexpected exit when editing fitting connection
This Update is for the following products:
  • Autodesk Inventor Professional 2012
  • Autodesk Inventor 2012
Download link to Readme file, Click Here...

Download link to Update 3 for SP2, Click Here...

Trying to help people keep up to date, even on older releases.

April 3, 2013

Inventor of the Month - March 2013

Autodesk has named CNR Changchun Railway Vehicles Co., Ltd. (Changchun) as the Inventor of the Month for March 2013. Changchun Railway Vehicles main focus has become the design of railway vehicle passenger seats that are more attractive, comfortable and stable.

The problem with most train seats on subways, high speed trains and other urban railways is that passengers can easily slide forward when the train accelerates or decelerates, making the seating experience less than optimal. Changchun Railway Vehicles has improved on this uncomfortable situation by creating a curved, stainless steel railway seat designed with Autodesk Inventor software.

Using Inventor software as part of Autodesk Product Design Suite, Changchun was able to calculate the release of pressure in various curves and bends and design a seat with a fully ergonomic curve that comfortably fits the human shape. This shape provides greater control, which prevents passengers from sliding forward when the train starts or stops.

In addition to the design of the seats, Changchun also used Inventor software to determine the best way to soundly affix the seats to the floors, performing strength and stress checks on the various screws, joints and welded components. Autodesk Inventor, which includes features and functionality around tooling and tolerances, not only increases the speed of these calculations, but also generates extremely accurate calculations that help reduce the occurrence of design errors.

The Changchun team also leverages Autodesk Vault data management software to help increase the business’ product development capacity and market competitiveness. This combination of Autodesk Digital Prototyping solutions has streamlined the company’s overall design process and won a growing number of customers, particularly as European companies turn toward China to purchase spare parts, including passenger seats, for their own railway networks.

Here is a link to Changchun Railway Vehicles Website

Credits: Autodesk, InTheFold, Changchun

March 26, 2013

AutoCAD 2014 System Requirements

Here are the system requirements for AutoCAD 2014:




AutoCAD 2014 System Requirements for 32-bit Workstations

Operating system:
•Microsoft Windows XP Professional - Service Pack 3 (SP3) or later
•Microsoft Windows XP Home - Service Pack 3 (SP3) or later
•Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise
•Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate
•Microsoft Windows 7 Professional
•Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
•Microsoft Windows 8
•Microsoft Windows 8 Pro
•Microsoft Windows 8 Enterprise

Browser: Internet Explorer 7.0 or later

Processor:
•Windows XP - Intel Pentium 4 or AMD Athlon Dual Core, 1.6 GHz or Higher with SSE2 technology
•Windows 7 and Windows 8 - Intel Pentium 4 or AMD Athlon Dual Core, 3.0 GHz or Higher with SSE2 technology

Memory: 2 GB RAM (4 GB Recommended)

Display resolution: 1024 x 768 (1600 x 1050 or higher recommended) with True Color

Disk Space: Installation 6.0 GB

Pointing Device: MS-Mouse compliant

Media: Download and Installation from DVD

Additional requirements for 3D Modeling: Intel Pentium 4 processor or AMD Athlon, 3.0 GHz or greater or Intel or AMD Dual Core processor, 2.0 GHz or greater

4 GB RAM

6 GB free hard disk available not including installation requirements

1280 x 1024 True color video display adapter 128 MB or greater, Pixel Shader 3.0 or greater, Direct3D capable workstation class graphics card.

Note: 64-bit Operating Systems are recommended if you are working with Large Datasets, Point Clouds and 3D Modeling - please refer to the AutoCAD 64-bit System Requirements for more information.

.NET Framework .NET Framework Version 4.0, Update 1

AutoCAD 2014 System Requirements for 64-bit workstations

Operating system:
•Microsoft Windows XP Professional* - Service Pack 2 (SP2) or later
•Microsoft Windows 7 Enterprise
•Microsoft Windows 7 Ultimate
•Microsoft Windows 7 Professional
•Microsoft Windows 7 Home Premium
•Microsoft Windows 8
•Microsoft Windows 8 Pro
•Microsoft Windows 8 Enterprise

*Note: VBA is not supported on Windows XP Professional

Browser: Internet Explorer 7.0 or later

Processor:
•AMD Athlon 64 with SSE2 technology AMD Opteron with SSE2 technology
•Intel Xeon with Intel EM64T support and SSE2
•Intel Pentium 4 with Intel EM64T support and SSE2 technology

Memory: 2 GB RAM (4 GB recommended)

Display resolution: 1024 x 768 (1600 x 1050 or higher recommended) with True Color

Disk Space: Installation 6.0 GB

Pointing Device: MS-Mouse compliant

Media: Download and Installation from DVD

Additional requirements for 3D Modeling: 4 GB RAM or more

6 GB free hard disk available not including installation requirements

1280 x 1024 True color video display adapter 128 MB or greater, Pixel Shader 3.0 or greater, Direct3D capable workstation class graphics card.

.NET Framework .NET Framework Version 4.0 Update 1

Inventor 2014 System Requirements

Here are the system requirements for Inventor 2014:




For Inventor 2014 Windows users
For general part and assembly design (typically fewer than 1,000 parts):

  • Windows 7 (32-bit minimum, 64-bit recommended), Windows 8 64-bit, or Windows XP Professional 32-bit operating system
  • Intel Pentium 4, AMD Athlon 64 with SSE2 technology, 3 GHz or greater, or AMD dual-core processor with SSE2, 2 GHz or greater recommended, or Intel Xeon E3 or Core i7 or equivalent with SSE2, 3.0 GHz or greater
  • 4 GB RAM minimum for less than 500 part assemblies (8 GB recommended)
  • 15 GB free disk space for installation
  • 1,280 x 1,024 or higher screen resolution
  • Microsoft Direct3D 9 or compatible graphics card (Microsoft Direct3D 11 or higher recommended)
  • Microsoft Internet Explorer 6 or later (.NET Framework Version 4.5 web browser)
  • Microsoft Excel 2003 or later software for iFeatures, iParts, iAssemblies, thread customization, and spreadsheet-driven designs
  • Adobe Flash Player 10
  • Internet connection for web downloads and Subscription Aware access
  • Microsoft-compliant mouse or pointing device
  • DVD-ROM drive
For complex models, complex mold assemblies, and large assemblies (typically more than 1,000 Parts):
  • 64-bit Windows 7 or Windows 8
  • Xeon E3 or Core i7 or equivalent, 3.3 GHz or greater
  • 16 GB RAM or greater
  • 15 GB free disk space for installation
  • 1,280 x 1,024 or higher screen resolution
  • Direct3D 9 or compatible graphics card (Direct3D 11 or higher recommended)
  • Internet Explorer 6 or later (.NET Framework Version 4.5 web browser)
  • Excel 2003 or later for iFeatures, iParts, iAssemblies, thread customization, and spreadsheet-driven designs
  • Flash Player 10
  • Internet connection for web downloads and Subscription Aware access
  • Microsoft-compliant mouse or pointing device
  • DVD-ROM drive
For Inventor 2014 Mac users
On Boot Camp:
You can install Autodesk Inventor Professional software on a Mac computer on a Windows partition. The system must use Apple Boot Camp to manage a dual OS configuration and meet the minimum system requirements.
  • Mac OS X 10.6 (10.8 or higher recommended)
  • Boot Camp v2.0 or higher
  • Windows 7 64-bit
  • Intel Core 2 Duo or greater processor with SSE2 technology, 3.0 GHz or greater
  • 8 GB RAM or greater
  • 64 GB free disk space on Windows OS partition (250 GB recommended)
Mac Virtualization on Parallels Desktop:
  • Mac OS X 10.6 (10.8 or higher recommended)
  • Parallels Desktop 8.0 or higher
  • 64-bit Windows 7 or Windows 8
  • Core 2 Duo or greater with SSE2 technology, 3.0 GHz or greater
  • 8 GB RAM (16 GB recommended)
  • 500 GB free disk space or greater

Product Design Suite 2014

Here is what is included in Product Design Suite 2014. There are a couple of changes. It is still broke down into 3 levels.


Product Design Suite Standard
  • Inventor
  • AutoCAD
  • AutoCAD Mechanical
  • AutoCAD Raster Design
  • AutoCAD ReCap
  • Mudbox
  • Showcase
  • Sketchbook Designer
  • Vault Basic
Product Design Suite Premium
  • All of the above plus:
  • Inventor Professional
  • AutoCAD Electrical
  • Navisworks Simulate
  • 3ds Max Design
Product Design Suite Ultimate
  • All of the above plus:
  • Alias Design
  • Navisworks Manage

AutoCAD 2014 - What's New

Here is the full list of What's New for AutoCAD 2014.

User Interaction

Command Line


The Command Line interface is enhanced to provide smarter, more efficient access to
commands and system variables. And, you can use the command line to find other content such as
hatch patterns, visual styles, and internet help.

AutoCorrect

The Command Line supports AutoCorrect. If you mistype a command, instead responding
with “Unknown command”, AutoCAD autocorrects to the most relevant and valid AutoCAD command.

For example, if you accidentally type TABEL, the TABLE command is automatically launched.

AutoComplete

AutoComplete command entry is enhanced to support mid-string search. For example, if you type SETTING on the Command line, the suggestion list displays commands containing the word
SETTING anywhere within it, not just at the beginning.

Adaptive Suggestions

Commands in the suggestion list are initially displayed in the order of their usage based on general
customer data. As you continue to use AutoCAD 2014, the order of commands in the suggestion list will adapt to your own usage habits. The command usage data is stored in the profile and adapts to each user.

Synonym Suggestions

The Command line has a built in synonym list. Enter a word at the command line and it will return a
command if a match is found in the synonym list. For example, if you enter Symbol, AutoCAD finds the INSERT command so you can insert a block. Or if you enter Round, AutoCAD finds the FILLET command so you can add a fillet to a corner.

Input Settings

You can customize the behavior of the command line using controls in the Input Settings menu when you right-click on the command line. In addition to the previous options to enable AutoComplete and search for system variables, you can enable AutoCorrect, search content and mid-string search. All of these options are turned on by default.
 
File Tabs
 
The AutoCAD 2014 release offers drawing tabs as a fast and visual way to switch between open drawings or to create new ones. You can turn the file tabs bar on or off using the File Tabs control on the View ribbon tab. When File Tabs are turned on, a tab for each open drawing is displayed at the top of the drawing area.
 
File tabs are displayed in the order they were opened. You can drag and drop tabs to change their order. If there is not enough room for all the file tabs to display across the area, an overflow menu at the right end of the file tabs bar provides access to the additional files.
 
A lock icon on a tab indicates that the file is open as read-only and an asterisk indicates if the file has
been modified since its last save. When you pass the cursor over a file tab, preview images of the model and layouts are displayed. If you pass the cursor over one of the preview images, the corresponding model or layout is temporarily displayed in the drawing area and Plot and Publish tools are accessible from the preview image.
 
The right-click menu for file tabs enables you to create, open, save and close files including the ability to close all open files except the one on which you right-clicked. You can also copy the full file path to the clipboard or open the file location in Windows Explorer.
 
A Plus (+) icon to the right of the drawing tabs, enables you to easily create new drawings, automatically adding their tabs as they’re created.
 
Layer Management
 
The number of layers displayed on the ribbon has been increased. Layers are now displayed using
natural ordered sort. For example, the following layer names 1, 4, 25, 6, 21, 2, 10 are sorted as 1, 2, 4, 6, 10, 21, 25 instead of 1, 10, 2, 25, 21, 4, 6.
A new Merge option in the Layer Manager enables you to select one or more layers from the layer list and merge the objects from those layers onto a different layer. The original layers are automatically purged from the drawing.
 
Xref Enhancements
 
The display of linetypes and layers from externally referenced drawings is enhanced. Xref linetypes are not displayed in the linetype list of the ribbon or Properties palette. Xref layers are still displayed in the ribbon so you can control their visibility but they are not displayed in the Properties palette.
Design Exploration
 
Geographic Location
 
Support for Geographic locations has been significantly enhanced in Keystone. It includes the same
Coordinate System Library as AutoCAD Map 3D and new Autodesk Live Maps.
There are many benefits to defining a location in your drawing. When you import geolocated data into a geolocated drawing, AutoCAD transforms the data based on the drawing's geographic location. You can see your design within the context of its location and if you render the model, it will have the correct sun angle. If you export the drawing to a mapping service like Google Earth, it will automatically display at the correct location. When you insert geo-referenced images or blocks into your geo-referenced drawing, they are automatically placed in the correct location and at the correct scale. For example, imagine large projects that have multiple designers working separately on the same design, such as a housing project. If each designer uses the same coordinate system, all the drawings will insert at their appropriate locations when combined into a single file. You can mark specific point of interest in your drawings knowing that those points correspond to logical geographic locations. And, if you have a GPS device enabled on your computer, you can see your current position in the drawing and you can even mark positions as you walk around. For example, landscape architects can visit the site and take notes of the surroundings by marking them on the drawing.
 
You can set a geographic location in your drawing using the Set Location tool on the Insert ribbon tab. Choose to set the location using Autodesk Maps Service or by selecting a KML or KMZ file.
 
Reality Capture
 
Reality Capture enables you to take a 3D laser scan of an object, topography, a building or even an
entire town and attach it to an AutoCAD drawing as point cloud data. You can then use it as a real-world reference for your design work. This point cloud data is stored as thousands, even millions, of points in 3D space.
 
Autodesk ReCap
 
Autodesk ReCap is a separate application which enables you to create a point cloud project file (RCP) that references multiple indexed scan files (RCS). It is installed with Keystone, by default and you can launch it from the Window’s Start menu or from the Autodesk ReCap desktop icon.
 
You can use Autodesk ReCap to convert scan file data to a point cloud format that can be viewed and edited in other products. Autodesk ReCap processes massive datasets enabling you to aggregate scan files and clean, section, spatially sort, compress, measure, and visualize them. The resulting high-speed formats can then be used by AutoCAD and other Autodesk applications including Revit and Autodesk Inventor.
 
Documentation
 
Drawing Enhancements
 
AutoCAD 2014 includes a variety of drawing enhancements to help you produce drawings more efficiently.
  • Arcs - Easily draw an arc in either direction using by pressing the Ctrl key to switch directions as you draw.
  • Polylines - The #11 AUGI wishlist request for the ability to fillet a polyline to itself, creating a closed polyline, is granted in Autocad 2014.
  • Sheet Sets - When creating a new sheet in a sheet set the CreateDate field stored in the associated template (.dwt) displays the creation date of the new sheet rather than the creation date of the template file.
  • Plot Styles - The CONVERTPSTYLES command enables you to convert the current drawing to either named or color dependent plot styles. In Autocad 2014 it is enhanced to support style names with spaces.
Annotation Enhancements
  • Attributes - The default behavior for inserting blocks with attributes displays the dialog box. ATTDIA is set to 1.
  • Text - Single line text is enhanced to maintain the last justification setting until it’s changed.
  • Dimensions - The new DIMCONTINUEMODE system variable provides you with more control when creating continued and baseline dimensions. When DIMCONTINUE is set to 0, the DIMCONTINUE and DIMBASELINE commands create dimensions based on the current dimension style. When set to 1, they apply the dimension style of the selected dimension.
  • Hatch - The Hatch tool on the ribbon maintains the previous method for selecting objects to hatch: Pick internal point or Select objects. The Undo option is added to the command line.
Customization

Operating Systems

AutoCAD 2014 supports Windows XP, Windows 7 and Windows 8. If you are using a Windows 8 touch-enabled device, you can benefit from smoother pan and zoom performance. A new control on the System tab of the Options dialog box displays a touch mode ribbon panel when a touch screen device is detected.

There is a short breakdown of the New Features in AutoCAD 2014. You can read about the rest of them when I post the full What's New document coming soon. You can follow me on alot of the social networks included in the following post. Different Ways to Follow Inventor Topix

Inventor 2014 - What's New

It is that time of year again to release the details about the latest enhancements that are added to the newest release of Inventor. Here is the list of What's New for Inventor 2014.

They are broke down into 7 different categories, but I am going to focus on the top 4. You can read about the rest when I post the What's New document later.
  • Sketch Design
  • Part
  • Assembly
  • Drawings
  • Communication and Interoperability
  • CAD Administrator Tools
  • Learning Tools
Click after the Break for all the details:

March 25, 2013

Autodesk Live Event

Autodesk is having a special Live event on March 26, 2013 at 8am Pacific, 11am Eastern, 3pm UK and 4pm Europe to learn more and see the impact that Autodesk software is having across the industries we serve.

Usually this time of year is when Autodesk introduces the new 2014 lineup of products, so if you want to watch first hand what is coming, you can join the introductions live on the internet. They are having two locations for your viewing pleasure.


Here is the link for the Facebook viewing site, www.facebook.com/autodesk

Here is the link for the Livestream viewing site, http://www.livestream.com/autodesk

If you can't make the lve events, stay tuned to Inventor Topix after the events to find out what is coming.

March 22, 2013

Inventor of the Year - 2012

Ellis Furniture leverages Autodesk Inventor software to offer greater levels of product customization to its customers and create high-quality furniture that fits their needs. (Photo: Business Wire)Autodesk has named Ellis Furniture, chosen by the manufacturing community, as the 2012 Inventor of the Year. Ellis Furniture, a U.K. based furniture company in business for more than a century, was chosen as the Autodesk Inventor of the Month for August 2012 for using Autodesk Inventor as part of Autodesk Product Design Suite to offer greater levels of product customization in significantly less time.

This speed enables Ellis to rapidly explore a number of design options for its customers, ranging from luxury hotels to government institutions, and create high-quality furniture that not only fits their precise needs, but is designed to last a lifetime.

Using Autodesk software, the company estimates that it is able to clarify initial product design concepts with customers 20 percent faster and establish material sources and material costs 30 to 40 percent faster. Ellis’ manufacturing process, including generating a bill of materials (BOM) and preparing design files for computer numerical control (CNC) machine tools with Autodesk software, takes 80 percent less time.

StudentThe rules-based design automation capabilities of Inventor software enable an efficient workflow where intelligent data behind each furniture design is fed into Ellis’ ERP system. This fully digital process eliminates manual data entry, reduces errors and speeds up turnaround time, even as the company gives its customers greater freedom to express their design intent and personalize their furniture offerings.

When one of its larger university customers required a vast array of size and color permutations for a new range of furniture, Ellis was able to develop a base model in Inventor software and tailor it until the university was satisfied. Likewise, when one of its military customers urgently needed a new range of bedroom furniture, Ellis was able to complete the models in Autodesk Inventor within a week and go straight into manufacturing with total confidence and without delays on the shop floor. Two weeks later, the units were being shipped to the other side of the world.

Ellis Furniture

Congratulations Ellis Furniture

Here is the original YouTube video about Ellis Furniture.


Image Credits: Ellis Furniture, Autodesk