Autodesk Fusion 360 Software Enables Generative Additive Manufacturing

Photo Credit: Autodesk

Autodesk’s Fusion 360 is said to unify design, engineering, electronics and manufacturing into a single cloud-based software system. The platform’s technology extensions are said to provide access to advanced features for complex machining, generative design additive manufacturing and more.

This cloud-based 3D modeling, CAD, CAM, CAE and PCB software platform for product design and manufacturing is said to help users design and engineer products to ensure aesthetics, form, fit and function.

The company says users can engineer, design and create anything with comprehensive electronics and PCB design tools to save time and money, and get quality parts out the door faster.

It is said to offer seamless 3D simulation, enabling users to test designs to ensure they survive real-world conditions, and simulate digitally to reduce prototyping costs. It also features explorative generative design tools, enabling users to explore many manufacturing-ready outcomes meeting design specifications through generative design.

Recent software updates for hybrid manufacturing include a machining extension which is said to accelerate CAM programming with powerful toolpath modification tools, enabling rapid edits without wasteful recalculations, so machining starts sooner and delivers parts faster.

The software’s advanced 4- and 5-axis simultaneous toolpaths are said to improve surface finish, use fewer part setups and increase cycle efficiency. Automatic collision avoidance is said to enable safe machining of complex parts.

The part inspection extension features CAD-based and spindle-mounted probes that are designed to measure and improve the accuracy of CNC part alignment, saving time and producing better parts. Autodesk’s Certification Program offers eight role-aligned, industry-validated certifications in Fusion 360 CAD and CAM workflows.