Tools for Design is intended to provide the user with an overview of computer aided design using two popular CAD software packages from Autodesk: AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor. This book explores the strengths of each package and shows how they can be used in design, both separately and in combination with each other.

What you'll learn

• How to create and dimension 2D multiview drawings using AutoCAD
• How to freehand sketch using axonometric, oblique and perspective projection techniques
• How to create 3D parametric models and 2D multiview drawings using Autodesk Inventor
• How to reuse design information between AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
• How to combine parts into assemblies including assembly modeling with a LEGO MINDSTORMS Education Base Set, with a TETRIX kit and a VEX Robot Kit
• How to perform basic finite element stress analysis using Inventor Stress Analysis Module

Who this book is for

This book is designed for high school and college age students wanting to learn the fundamentals of computer aided design with AutoCAD and Inventor and how the two can be used together. No prior CAD experience is required.

Table of Contents

Introduction: Getting Started
1. Fundamentals of AutoCAD
2. Basic Object Construction and Dynamic Input - AutoCAD
3. Geometric Construction and Editing Tools - AutoCAD
4. Orthographic Views in Multiview Drawings - AutoCAD
5. Basic Dimensioning and Notes - AutoCAD
6. Pictorials and Sketching
7. Parametric Modeling Fundamentals - Autodesk Inventor
8. Constructive Solid Geometry Concepts - Autodesk Inventor
9. Model History Tree - Autodesk Inventor
10. Parametric Constraints Fundamentals - Autodesk Inventor
11. Geometric Construction Tools - Autodesk Inventor
12. Parent/Child Relationships and the BORN Technique - Autodesk Inventor
13. Part Drawings and 3D Model-Based Definition - Autodesk Inventor
14. Symmetrical Features in Design - Autodesk Inventor
15. Design Reuse Using AutoCAD and Autodesk Inventor
16. Assembly Modeling - Putting It All Together - Autodesk Inventor
17. Design Analysis - Autodesk Inventor Stress Analysis Module

Bonus Chapters

18. Assembly Modeling with the LEGO MINDSTORMS NXT Set - Autodesk Inventor
19. Assembly Modeling with the TETRIX by Pitsco Building System - Autodesk Inventor
20. Assembly Model with VEX Robot Kit - Autodesk Inventor