Let the Software Competition begin: Solid-Works vs. Inventor

Inventor and Solid-Works are both 3D modeling software that is similar, and therefore they make great choices. Due to a number of factors, both tools are industry standards, and both provide extensive simulations before designs become reality.

You should keep in mind that Inventor is cheaper, especially for initial setup. In the end, neither program can go wrong.

Inventor

Creator was Autodesk's 3D parametric tool before it became Inventor. Developed in 1999, it is a direct competitor of Solid-Works. The software combines 2D and 3D mechanical design and simulation tools, as well as documenting tools.

The geometry of an Inventor model is parametric, which means that specific parameters determine and modify the geometry.

Benefits of Inventor

1. Direct-editing and free-form modeling is options to parametric design's predictive approach.

2. Inventor's unique feature loads a design's graphic parts separately from its material and geometric components. Because the latter is the heaviest data consumer of most designs, this makes it noticeable faster.

3. An inventor may test a 3D design in real-life situations according to its methods. In its Dynamic Simulation module, pressure is a key point like joints by applying torque. The burst tool is a favorite among many. Using this method, one can simulate an emergency scenario where the weld gives way.

4. Mechanical parts, such as blades or support wires, can also be automatically calculated behind the scenes. A large design can view without getting bogged down in small details.

Drawbacks of Inventor

Unfortunately, Autodesk's Inventor isn't especially user-friendly. Autodesk's official site offers tutorials and helpful documents, but it doesn't have a large online community either.

There are a variety of ways through which Autodesk provides support. But those with high-end licenses consider first in the queue.

SolidWorks

Solid-Works is the first fully-featured 3D modeling software for Windows since its release in 1995. The program has developed into a full-fledged CAD system since then.

A key feature of Solid-Works since 2001 is its simulation tools. Its testing modules have also taken a detour into the world of virtual reality in latest versions of Solid-Works.

Benefits of SolidWorks

1. Virtual and augmented realities are two of the first technologies Solid-Works recognized and adopted for practical design applications. The tool offers all angles of inspection and testing a design beyond the standard math of simulations. So it can use far beyond the math of design and usability testing.

2. It's easy to grow with Solid-Works. Designing, testing, and modeling large pieces with millions of components can accomplish without burning out a computer's CPU.

3. Solid-Works has a sustainability tool that allows you to estimate how a design will impact the environment. As consumers become more and more aware of the impact of the products they use, this is an important feature that matters more than ever.

4. Solid-Works' testing capabilities have outgrown current requirements. Stress tests with high repetitions, temperature and object pressure measurements, and other real-world standards offer so that one can mix and match them before purchasing a single beam or screw. That saves the manufacturer not only money but also building time and material waste.

Drawbacks of SolidWorks

Although Solid-Works has a decent 2D sketching module, its structure makes 3D modeling harder. Building codes, proportions, and building design aren't easily accessible through tools that architects would use.

Wrapping it Up

It is Autodesk's Inventor software that is Solid-Works' closest rival. Boost 3D and the simulation company develop tools for demonstrating how designs will work in the real world without wasting any time or energy.

Both companies have strong roots in computer-aided design, and both provide simulation tools that allow you to visualize your design in the real world.

To learn more, watch the following video tutorial.

Video Source: The Compass Alliance