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Autodesk Inventor, a complete guide from beginner to expert

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Based on 1,082 ratings
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Marius Brink

Complete guide to engineering modelling and design using Autodesk Inventor. Course is designed using real world applications and scenario so that students will become competent users of Autodesk Inventor, as well as learning draughting design techniques and skills to become a real valuable assist to any company. The course begins with the basics of using the software and move into more advanced techniques such as Sheet Metal, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using

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Complete guide to engineering modelling and design using Autodesk Inventor. Course is designed using real world applications and scenario so that students will become competent users of Autodesk Inventor, as well as learning draughting design techniques and skills to become a real valuable assist to any company. The course begins with the basics of using the software and move into more advanced techniques such as Sheet Metal, Finite Element Analysis (FEA) using

Section 1 will serve as your introduction to Autodesk Inventor. Here we will cover the basics of drawing, modelling and getting familiar with the user interface. We will also cover some more advanced sections such as basic animation, design generator and 3D sketches. There is also an instruction video covering how to download and install Autodesk Inventor (2020). This is the largest portion of the course and contains valuable information and skills that will be required later on.

In section 2 we will cover Sheet Metal. Sheet Metal is one of the invaluable functions that Inventor has to offer. Ideal for industries using metal sheets and those who use press breaks as part of their manufacturing. Sheet Metal enables the user to create accurate templates, sheet, coil and plate cut sizes, as well as giving bending steps showing which part to bend first and which part to bend last to enable you to get the end product you desire.

Next, we move on to section 3, Frame Generator. Ideal for use with structural members such as tubes, pipes, angles and beams. Here we will go a little deeper into 3D sketches. Frame Generator makes it simple to replace structural members without having to change or redraw the frame structure. It offers useful functions such as mitres, which automatically generates the perfect fit between the individual structural members.

In Section 4 we will cover yet another of Inventor’s invaluable functions, NASTRAN. NASA developed this software in the 1960s to aid them with Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This software was developed to design more efficient space vehicles such as the Space Shuttle. FEA is invaluable to any industry and ideal for the pressure vessel manufacturing industries.

We now move on to one of the Inventor’s more creative functions. In section 5 we will cover in more detail 3D animation using Inventor Studio. This is ideal for creating short videos, showing exactly how a specific item is designed, or how it interacts within a system.

Section 6 is our final section and it is an introduction to one of the fastest-growing and incredibly exiting industries. The 3D printing industry is one of the most profitable and lucrative industries. It offers limitless possibilities; the technology is improving every year and the introduction of 3D metal printing has changed the manufacturing industry forever. With 3D printing, you can create prototypes which cost a fraction of what a machined item would cost and it enables you to design components that are impossible to manufacture using traditional machining methods. It is also a wonderful hobby to have, designing and printing unique gifts and items needed around the house.

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What's inside

Learning objective

Basic and advanced design skills, sheet metal, design generator, 3d animation, fea nastran, 3d printing

Syllabus

Introduction

Here we will have a quick look at what we will cover in each of the six sections.


Section one is an introduction to Autodesk Inventor. Here we will cover the basics of drawing, modelling and getting familiar with the user interface. We will also cover some more advanced sections such as basic animation, design generator and 3D sketches. There is also an instruction video covering how to download and install Autodesk Inventor (2020). This is the largest portion of the course and contains valuable information and skills that will be required later on. Total Videos: 76, Duration: 1 127 minutes (18 ¾ Hours)


In section 2 we will cover Sheet Metal. Sheet Metal is one of the invaluable functions that Inventor has to offer. Ideal for industries using metal sheets and those who use press breaks as part of their manufacturing. Sheet Metal enables the user to create accurate templates, sheet, coil and plate cut sizes, as well as giving bending steps showing which part to bend first and which part to bend last to enable you to get the end product you desire. Total Videos: 5, Duration: 180 minutes (3 Hours)


Next, we move on to section 3, Frame Generator. Ideal for use with structural members such as tubes, pipes, angles and beams. Here we will go a little deeper into 3D sketches. Frame Generator makes it simple to replace structural members without having to change or redraw the frame structure. It offers useful functions such as mitres, which automatically generates the perfect fit between the individual structural members. Total Videos: 3, Duration: 53 minutes


In Section 4 we will cover yet another of Inventor’s invaluable functions, NASTRAN. NASTRAN, an abbreviation for NAsa STRuctural ANalysis, is a software package designed by NASA which is offered within Inventor. NASA developed this software in the 1960s to aid them with Finite Element Analysis (FEA). This software was developed to design more efficient space vehicles such as the Space Shuttle. FEA is invaluable to any industry and ideal for the pressure vessel manufacturing industries. Total Videos: 5, 94 minutes (1½ Hours)


We now move on to one of the Inventor’s more creative functions. In section 5 we will cover in more detail 3D animation using Inventor Studio. This is ideal for creating short videos, showing exactly how a specific item is designed, or how it interacts within a system. Total Videos: 3, Duration: 41 minutes


Section 6 is our final section and it is an introduction to one of the fastest-growing and incredibly exiting industries. The 3D printing industry is one of the most profitable and lucrative industries. It offers limitless possibilities; the technology is improving every year and the introduction of 3D metal printing has changed the manufacturing industry forever. With 3D printing, you can create prototypes which cost a fraction of what a machined item would cost and it enables you to design components that are impossible to manufacture using traditional machining methods. It is also a wonderful hobby to have, designing and printing unique gifts and items needed around the house. Total Videos: 6, 66 minutes (1 Hour)

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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers FEA using NASTRAN, which is invaluable for industries needing to analyze structural integrity and optimize designs, especially in pressure vessel manufacturing
Begins with the basics of drawing and modeling, then progresses to advanced techniques like sheet metal design and 3D animation, providing a comprehensive learning experience
Explores sheet metal functionality, which is ideal for industries using metal sheets and press breaks, enabling the creation of accurate templates and bending steps
Features frame generator, which simplifies the process of replacing structural members and automatically generates perfect fits between individual structural members using mitres
Includes 3D animation using Inventor Studio, which is ideal for creating short videos demonstrating the design and interaction of items within a system
Introduces 3D printing, which allows for creating prototypes at a fraction of the cost of machined items and designing components impossible to manufacture using traditional methods

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Reviews summary

Comprehensive autodesk inventor guide with practical projects

According to learners, this course offers a comprehensive guide to Autodesk Inventor, praised for taking students from beginner to intermediate/advanced levels. Reviewers frequently highlight the practical, real-world projects and examples provided throughout the curriculum, finding them invaluable for applying concepts. The instruction is often described as clear and easy to follow, making complex topics accessible. While the course covers a wide array of features including Sheet Metal, FEA (NASTRAN), and 3D printing, some learners note that reaching a true "expert" level may require additional practice beyond the course content. Overall, the feedback is overwhelmingly positive, with many recommending it for anyone serious about learning professional CAD skills in Inventor.
Discusses reaching expert status.
"While comprehensive, it takes you to a solid intermediate/advanced introduction, perhaps not full 'expert' mastery without more practice."
"It's a great foundation, but mastering advanced techniques might require supplementing this course."
"The title says 'expert', but I'd say it gets you very competent and ready for more complex work, maybe high intermediate."
"I feel very capable in Inventor now, moving well beyond beginner status after this course."
Includes Sheet Metal, FEA, Animation.
"The sections on Sheet Metal and FEA (NASTRAN) are particularly valuable for professional applications."
"I learned how to use key functions like Frame Generator and Inventor Studio for animation."
"Coverage of NASTRAN and 3D printing adds significant value for specific industries."
"Appreciated the detailed look into Sheet Metal functions."
Recommended for those starting out.
"As someone totally new to Inventor, this course was the perfect starting point."
"It really starts from the ground up and builds your skills progressively, making it great for beginners."
"This course is a fantastic entry point into Autodesk Inventor for anyone serious about CAD."
"Highly recommended for anyone new to this software."
Instructor explains concepts well.
"The instructor explains things very clearly and is easy to follow, making complex tasks seem manageable."
"His step-by-step approach is excellent for understanding the processes involved."
"Lectures are well-structured and easy to understand, even for beginners."
"I found the explanations simple and direct, which I appreciated."
Real-world examples aid learning.
"The hands-on projects using real components like flanges and gearbox parts are incredibly helpful."
"I found the focus on real-world applications and manufacturing drawings particularly useful."
"Building actual parts and assemblies solidifies the learning in a practical way."
"The course is designed using real world applications and scenario..."
Covers wide range of Inventor topics.
"I was impressed by the breadth of topics covered, from basic modeling to complex assemblies and FEA."
"This course covers everything you need to know, from the basics right through to advanced topics like Sheet Metal and Frame Generator."
"A truly complete guide, touching on almost every feature of Inventor a professional would need."
"The syllabus covers an extensive list of features and applications within Inventor."
Pace can be fast in sections.
"Sometimes the pace felt a bit rushed when introducing new concepts, requiring me to pause and rewatch."
"A few lessons went by quite fast, making it a bit challenging to keep up without rewinding."
"For a complete beginner, some parts might feel like they jump ahead quickly."
"Manageable pace overall, but keep that finger on the pause button!"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Autodesk Inventor, a complete guide from beginner to expert with these activities:
Review Basic Engineering Drawing Principles
Reinforce fundamental knowledge of engineering drawing principles to better understand the 2D drawings generated from Autodesk Inventor models.
Browse courses on Engineering Drawing
Show steps
  • Review orthographic and isometric projection techniques.
  • Practice sketching basic shapes and components.
  • Familiarize yourself with common drafting standards.
Read 'Engineering Design: A Systematic Approach' by Pahl and Beitz
Understand the systematic approach to engineering design to improve problem-solving skills within Autodesk Inventor.
View Engineering Design on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on concept generation and evaluation.
  • Apply the design process to a simple Inventor project.
Design a Simple Mechanical Assembly
Apply learned skills by designing a mechanical assembly, such as a simple gear system or a small machine component, using Autodesk Inventor.
Show steps
  • Choose a mechanical assembly to design.
  • Create individual parts using Inventor's modeling tools.
  • Assemble the parts and check for proper fit and function.
  • Create a drawing package with manufacturing details.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Read '3D Printing Handbook' by Chuck Hull
Understand the 3D printing process to improve design skills for 3D printing using Autodesk Inventor.
View Putting Knowledge to Work on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the chapters on 3D printing technologies and materials.
  • Apply the knowledge to a simple Inventor project.
Explore Advanced Sheet Metal Techniques
Deepen understanding of sheet metal design by following advanced tutorials on creating complex bends, flanges, and other sheet metal features in Inventor.
Show steps
  • Find tutorials on advanced sheet metal features.
  • Replicate the techniques in Inventor.
  • Apply the techniques to a personal sheet metal project.
Create a Finite Element Analysis (FEA) Report
Solidify FEA knowledge by conducting a structural analysis on a designed part and creating a report summarizing the results and design implications.
Show steps
  • Select a part designed in Inventor.
  • Perform FEA using Inventor's NASTRAN solver.
  • Analyze the results and identify areas of stress concentration.
  • Write a report summarizing the analysis and recommendations.
Create an Animation of an Assembly
Enhance understanding of assembly design and animation by creating a short video showcasing the functionality of a mechanical assembly using Inventor Studio.
Show steps
  • Choose an assembly designed in Inventor.
  • Create an animation sequence using Inventor Studio.
  • Render the animation and add annotations.
  • Share the animation with peers for feedback.

Career center

Learners who complete Autodesk Inventor, a complete guide from beginner to expert will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
CAD Technician
A CAD technician, or computer aided design technician, creates technical drawings and models using specialized software. Much of their work may involve 3D models. The Autodesk Inventor course is directly relevant to the work of a CAD technician, as Autodesk Inventor is a CAD software. The course covers the basics of drawing and modeling, as well as more advanced techniques such as sheet metal, frame generator, and 3D animation. A CAD technician can use the design skills taught in this course to create accurate and detailed models.
See salaries and explore the career path for CAD Technician
Drafter
A drafter prepares technical drawings and plans used by production and construction workers. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers the basics of drawing and modeling, as well as more advanced techniques. Drafters can use the skills taught in this course to create accurate and detailed drawings.
See salaries and explore the career path for Drafter
Mechanical Engineer
A mechanical engineer researches, develops, and tests mechanical devices. This often involves the use of computer aided design (CAD) software to create designs and models. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers topics such as basic animation, design generator, 3D sketches, sheet metal, frame generator, and finite element analysis using NASTRAN, skills that are each relevant to a mechanical engineer. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Mechanical Engineer
Design Engineer
A design engineer creates and develops designs for new products and systems. This often involves using CAD software to create models and drawings. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers topics such as sheet metal, frame generator, and finite element analysis using NASTRAN. Design engineers can use these skills to create efficient and effective designs. This course may also be helpful in learning 3D printing for prototypes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Design Engineer
Product Designer
A product designer is involved in the conception, design, and development of new products. They often use CAD software to create prototypes and models. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. Product designers can use the skills taught in this course to create detailed 3D models of their product ideas. The course also covers 3D printing, which product designers may find useful for creating prototypes. The course may improve design skills and knowledge of manufacturing processes.
See salaries and explore the career path for Product Designer
Manufacturing Engineer
A manufacturing engineer works to improve efficiency and productivity in manufacturing processes. They may use CAD software to design tools, fixtures, and other manufacturing aids. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers topics such as sheet metal and frame generator, which may be relevant to manufacturing processes. A manufacturing engineer can use the skills learned in the course to design and optimize manufacturing processes. This may involve 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Engineer
Structural Engineer
A structural engineer focuses on the design and analysis of structures to ensure their stability and safety. They often use CAD software to create models and perform simulations. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. Structural engineers may find the finite element analysis (FEA) using NASTRAN covered in the course to be particularly useful for analyzing the structural integrity of designs. A structural engineer can use the skills learned in the course to create detailed models and perform simulations. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Structural Engineer
Aerospace Engineer
An aerospace engineer designs and develops aircraft, spacecraft, and related systems. This often involves using CAD software to create detailed models and simulations. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. Aerospace engineers may find the finite element analysis (FEA) using NASTRAN covered in the course to be particularly useful, as it was originally developed by NASA for designing spacecraft. Aerospace engineers can use the skills learned in the course to design and analyze aerospace components. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Aerospace Engineer
Automotive Engineer
An automotive engineer designs and develops vehicles and their components. This often involves using CAD software to create detailed models and simulations. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers topics such as sheet metal and finite element analysis (FEA) using NASTRAN, which may be relevant to automotive design. An automotive engineer can use the skills learned in the course to create detailed models and analyze the performance of vehicle components. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Automotive Engineer
3D Printing Technician
A 3D printing technician operates and maintains 3D printers to create prototypes and finished products. The Autodesk Inventor course may be useful for 3D printing technicians who need to create or modify 3D models for printing. The course covers 3D printing, which provides a foundation in the processes and techniques involved. A 3D printing technician can use the skills learned in the course to prepare models for printing and troubleshoot printing issues. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for 3D Printing Technician
Tool and Die Maker
A tool and die maker creates and repairs precision tools and dies used in manufacturing processes. The Autodesk Inventor course may be useful for tool and die makers who need to create detailed models of tools and dies. The course covers topics such as sheet metal and 3D modeling, which may be relevant to tool and die design. A tool and die maker can use the skills learned in the course to create accurate models and improve their tool design skills. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tool and Die Maker
Robotics Engineer
A robotics engineer designs, develops, and tests robots and robotic systems. This often involves using CAD software to create models and simulations. The Autodesk Inventor course helps build a foundation in using Autodesk Inventor for engineering modeling and design. The course covers topics such as 3D animation, which may be useful for simulating robot movements. A robotics engineer can use the skills learned in the course to design and model robots and their components. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Robotics Engineer
Civil Engineer
A civil engineer designs and oversees the construction of infrastructure projects, such as bridges, buildings, and roads. The Autodesk Inventor course may be useful for civil engineers who need to create 3D models of structures and systems. The course covers topics such as frame generator and finite element analysis (FEA) using NASTRAN, which could be applied to structural design. A civil engineer can use the skills learned in the course to create detailed models and analyze the structural integrity of designs. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Civil Engineer
Manufacturing Technician
A manufacturing technician supports manufacturing processes by setting up, operating, and maintaining equipment. The Autodesk Inventor course may be useful for manufacturing technicians who need to understand CAD models and manufacturing processes. The course covers topics such as sheet metal, frame generator, and 3D printing, which may be relevant to manufacturing operations. A manufacturing technician can use the skills learned in the course to interpret CAD models, troubleshoot manufacturing issues, and potentially create prototypes. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Manufacturing Technician
Welding Technician
A welding technician prepares and joins metal parts using various welding techniques. The Autodesk Inventor course may be useful for welding technicians who work with sheet metal components or structural frames. The course covers sheet metal and frame generator, which may be relevant to welding applications. A welding technician can use the skills learned in the course to interpret CAD models, design weldments, and potentially create jigs and fixtures. This course may also teach skills useful for creating prototypes using 3D printing.
See salaries and explore the career path for Welding Technician

Reading list

We've selected two books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Autodesk Inventor, a complete guide from beginner to expert.
Cover image
Putting Knowledge to Work
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of 3D printing technologies, materials, and applications. It covers various 3D printing processes, including FDM, SLA, and SLS. While not specific to Autodesk Inventor, it provides a valuable understanding of the 3D printing process, which is essential for designing parts for 3D printing. It is commonly used as a reference book in 3D printing courses.
Putting Knowledge to Work
Paperback
Check
Putting Knowledge to Work
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Engineering Design
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the engineering design process. It covers systematic methods for problem-solving, concept generation, and design evaluation. While not specific to Autodesk Inventor, it provides a valuable framework for approaching design challenges within the software. It is commonly used as a textbook in engineering design courses.
Engineering Design
Paperback
Check
Engineering Design
Kindle Edition
Check

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Course image
Rating
4.4 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Empty star
Effort
26 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Marius Brink
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Covers FEA using NASTRAN, which is invaluable for industries needing to analyze structural integrity and optimize designs, especially in pressure vessel manufacturing
Begins with the basics of drawing and modeling, then progresses to advanced techniques like sheet metal design and 3D animation, providing a comprehensive learning experience
Explores sheet metal functionality, which is ideal for industries using metal sheets and press breaks, enabling the creation of accurate templates and bending steps
Features frame generator, which simplifies the process of replacing structural members and automatically generates perfect fits between individual structural members using mitres
Includes 3D animation using Inventor Studio, which is ideal for creating short videos demonstrating the design and interaction of items within a system
Introduces 3D printing, which allows for creating prototypes at a fraction of the cost of machined items and designing components impossible to manufacture using traditional methods
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