Autodesk Inventor vs Solidworks

[lightning_blast]

Hi, I am really looking into learning how to use one of these programs. Can someone please tell me what are the differences between these? Oh I just remembered Pro/E as well. I am also looking into simulations of designs of how it interacts with objects. Do any of the three do this? What does one have that the other does not? It would be great if somebody knew the answer and would love to share. Thanks.:D

[lightning_blast]

oops sry nvm i just noticed there were lots of similar threads :ahh:

[=Martin=Taylor=]

Hi, I am really looking into learning how to use one of these programs. Can someone please tell me what are the differences between these? Oh I just remembered Pro/E as well. I am also looking into simulations of designs of how it interacts with objects. Do any of the three do this? What does one have that the other does not? It would be great if somebody knew the answer and would love to share. Thanks.:D

To be honest I think they are almost exactly the same in capabilities. Inventor has a better sketching/modeling interface and is more intuitive (IMO), but Solidworks has more advanced features, better stress analysis, and better content libraries.

Solidworks is the industry standard. So there are LOTS of models readily available online. (granted most of these can be converted to Inventor format) The solidworks content library is a terrific resource. (http://www.3dcontentcentral.com/default.aspx)

On the other hand, your team can get copies of inventor for free. You can probably get a student discount on Solidworks, but I don't think you can get 8 copies for free...

Another thing to consider is that you can't enter the Autodesk CAD contest with Solidworks models. Not sure if you care. But something to keep in mind...

If you learn one program the other will come easy. They are quite similar.

[Greg Needel]

The poster found many other similar threads. Closed.