Fusion 360: A Complete Solution for Additive Design

The American software company Autodesk offers a wide range of CAD solutions for architects, engineers and designers, including its most well-known product, AutoCAD. Even though it is possible to create 3D models with solids, surfaces and mesh objects on AutoCAD, it is much more advanced in terms of its 2D capabilities. Therefore, Autodesk has developed other software dedicated to 3D modeling applications, including Autodesk Inventor and Fusion 360. As its name suggests, Fusion 360 is a cloud-optimized application that positions itself as a complete solution, offering not only CAD (Computer Aided Design), but also CAM (Computer Aided Manufacturing) and CAE (Computer Aided Engineering) tools. The software facilitates the product development and optimization process, particularly for use in 3D printing. So what are its features?

As mentioned, Fusion 360 is cloud based and integrates CAD, CAM and CAE tools. This allows users to bring together design, engineering and manufacturing into a single platform. Essentially, you will not have to leave your design environment when modeling on Fusion 360. Moreover, Fusion 360 enables mechanical and technical 3D models to be created. However, many users criticize the fact that the program lacks sculpting tools for organic modelling. CAD solutions such as Blender or Rhino offer more extensive functionalities for designs in this respect.

Fusion 360’s interface

The Features of Fusion 360

As you know, there is a specific format needed to be able to send a 3D model to a 3D printer, and Fusion 360 is perfectly suited for this. You can save your 3D model in a variety of formats, including STL and OBJ. In terms of 3D modeling, Fusion 360 offers sketching, parametric modeling, direct modeling, freeform modeling, surface modeling, sheet metal, mesh modeling, assemblies and PCB design integrations. Therefore, it covers all the needs industrial designers may have when developing a product, combining aesthetics and function.