Fusion 360

Fusion 360
Name	Fusion 360
Developer	Autodesk
Released	June 2013
Operating system	Windows, macOS
Genre	Computer-aided design, Computer-aided manufacturing, Computer-aided engineering
License	SaaS, Freemium

Fusion 360. It is a comprehensive cloud-based CAD/CAM/CAE software platform developed by Autodesk. First launched in 2013, it integrates industrial and mechanical design, simulation, collaboration, and machining into a single environment. The platform is widely used by designers, engineers, and machinists across various sectors for product development and manufacturing.

Overview

Fusion 360 represents a significant shift in computer-aided design software, moving from traditional perpetual licenses to a software as a service model hosted on the Autodesk Cloud. This approach allows for real-time collaboration and data management across global teams. The software consolidates tools that were historically separate applications, such as parametric modeling, direct modeling, generative design, and additive manufacturing preparation. Its development is closely tied to Autodesk's broader strategy, exemplified by products like Inventor and AutoCAD, but with a focus on accessibility and integration.

Features

The platform's feature set spans the entire product development lifecycle. For design, it offers robust solid modeling, surface modeling, freeform modeling, and sheet metal design tools. Its computer-aided engineering capabilities include static stress simulation, thermal simulation, and modal analysis powered by the NASTRAN solver. The computer-aided manufacturing module provides toolpath strategies for CNC milling, turning, and 3D printing support for machines from companies like Stratasys and HP Inc.. Unique tools like Generative Design leverage cloud computing to explore multiple design solutions based on constraints set by the user.

Licensing and pricing

Fusion 360 employs a tiered freemium and subscription licensing structure. A free license is available for hobbyists, startups, and educational use, with limitations on active documents and advanced functionality. Commercial users typically require a paid subscription, which can be monthly, annually, or triennially. Special licensing exists for students and educators through the Autodesk Education community. This model differs from the perpetual licenses historically offered for software like Autodesk Maya or 3ds Max.

File formats and compatibility

The native file format is `.f3d`, which stores design history and data in the Autodesk Cloud. For interoperability, it supports importing and exporting a wide array of standard formats, including STEP, IGES, SAT, and STL. It maintains strong compatibility with other Autodesk products, allowing direct opening of files from Inventor and AutoCAD (`.dwg`). Collaboration features enable live review and markup via the A360 platform, facilitating work with supply chains and clients using different software ecosystems.

Industry applications

Fusion 360 is utilized across diverse industries for prototyping, manufacturing, and tooling. In the consumer electronics sector, it aids in designing enclosures and components. Automotive and aerospace teams use its simulation tools for lightweighting and part validation. The software is also prevalent in the maker movement and small-scale manufacturing for creating functional prototypes and production runs on CNC routers or 3D printers. Its integrated approach supports everything from designing robotic arms for Boston Dynamics to custom fixtures in machine shops.

See also

* Autodesk Inventor * SolidWorks * Onshape * Computer-aided design * Generative design * Additive manufacturing

Category:Autodesk software Category:Computer-aided design software Category:Computer-aided manufacturing software Category:2013 software