Parametric 3D CAD for product design and engineering. Model parts and large assemblies, run simulation, and produce manufacturing-ready drawings in one connected toolset.
- Autodesk Platinum Partner
- 30+ years in business
- US & CA support
From first sketch to manufacturable product.
Inventor pairs parametric modeling with assembly, simulation, and documentation in one environment, so your design intent carries from concept to the shop floor.
- Parametric, direct, and rules-based modeling
- Large-assembly performance and design automation
- Sheet metal, frame, weldment, tube & pipe, cable & harness
- Built-in stress analysis and motion simulation
What you get with Inventor
Design automation with iLogic
Capture rules with iLogic to reconfigure designs in minutes, not days, and extend Inventor through its API and Autodesk Platform Services.
Specialized environments
Dedicated tools for sheet metal, frame generator, weldments, tube & pipe, and cable & harness.
Simulation built in
Validate with stress analysis and dynamic motion simulation: forces, torques, and motion over time.
AnyCAD interoperability
Open and reference designs from other CAD systems directly, with no translation needed.
Model-Based Definition
Embed 3D dimensions, annotations, and tolerances in the model for downstream manufacturing.
Autodesk Assistant (AI)
In-context AI support that answers questions and helps automate tasks without leaving Inventor.
Key capabilities
- Parametric & rules-based modeling: Parameters and constraints capture design intent, and iLogic automates repetitive configurations and whole product variants.
- Assembly design at scale: Manage large assemblies with joints and contact solving, plus Content Center libraries of standard parts (beams, bolts, gears, springs).
- Simulate before you build: Stress analysis and dynamic motion simulation validate designs and cut costly physical prototypes.
- Production-ready documentation: Associative drawings, BOMs, and Model-Based Definition that embeds tolerances in the 3D model.
Is Inventor right for your team?
| Best for | 3D mechanical product design, large assemblies, and engineering documentation |
|---|---|
| Platform | Windows desktop |
| Specialized tools | Sheet metal, frame generator, weldments, tube & pipe, cable & harness, presentations |
| Simulation | Stress analysis (FEA) and dynamic motion simulation built in |
| Automation | iLogic rules, Inventor API, and Autodesk Platform Services |
| Interoperability | AnyCAD (open non-native CAD), DWG, STEP, and native Revit/BIM workflows |
| Licensing | Annual or multi-year subscription, included in the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection |
| From DSI | Deployment help, certified training, and local technical support included |
A subscription is just the start
Buy Inventor through DSI, an Autodesk Platinum Partner. Get deployment help, certified training, and support from specialists who use the software every day.
Frequently asked questions
What is Autodesk Inventor used for?
Inventor is parametric 3D CAD for mechanical product design, large assemblies, simulation, and manufacturing documentation. It is widely used in automotive, aerospace, machinery, and industrial equipment.
Inventor or Fusion: which should I use?
Inventor is the desktop parametric tool built for large assemblies and professional mechanical engineering. Fusion adds cloud CAD, CAM, and CAE in one app. Many teams use both, and DSI can help you decide.
What are the system requirements?
Inventor runs on Windows. Large assemblies and simulation benefit from more RAM and a dedicated GPU, so DSI can confirm the right workstation spec for your work.
Is Inventor sold on its own?
Inventor is available as a standalone subscription, and it is also included in the Product Design & Manufacturing Collection alongside AutoCAD and Fusion.
Does DSI provide training and support?
Yes. DSI is an Autodesk Platinum Partner offering certified training, deployment help, and local technical support.
Get in touch with our team today!
Talk to a DSI specialist about Inventor licensing, bundles, and training built around how your team works.