Datasheet

BEST PRACTICES IN AUTODESK INVENTOR 23
Figure 1.18
Representation of a solid
model in shaded mode
Best Practices in Autodesk Inventor
Every 3D modeling package follows a workflow designed to produce the best and most efficient
design while retaining the stability required to update or modify the design at a later time. In addi-
tion, the workflow encourages high performance and stability within the file structure. Inventor is
no different from other packages in that an efficient design workflow must be followed to ensure
good results.
The following are six important areas to consider when creating an ideal workflow that will
both benefit your designs and meet your company’s operational requirements:
◆ Creating a data management structure
◆ Selecting the proper project file type for your designs
◆ Developing an efficient and stable part-modeling workflow
◆ Developing assembly structure for maximum efficiency
◆ Establishing standards for documentation
◆ Using digital communication
Creating a Data Management Structure
In the previous pages, we discussed the need for an efficient and practical data management
structure that will fit the needs within your company. A good data management structure may be
something that your company has already created or something that you may design, keeping in
mind your company’s and customer’s requirements.
Even if your company has been working in other CAD packages for many years, your filing
system may be in serious need of reorganization or replacement. Many times, the file structure
you find yourself working under today has simply evolved over time as changes in hardware and
operating systems have come about. These evolutions range from very inefficient systems with
vestiges of some long-gone setup or decision that negatively impacts the way things are done
today to very efficient systems where filing is intuitive and well structured. When you implement
Inventor, it’s a good time to evaluate your system and see what changes are or are not required
because of the way that Inventor uses linked files within the application. It is also important to
note that parametric modelers such as Inventor create more files than traditional design software.
Redesigning a file management system for efficiency may require the skills of an outside
data management consultant who also thoroughly understands the data management struc-
ture required for efficient use of Autodesk Inventor and AutoCAD. Or it may mean your IT staff
needs to become familiar with how Inventor works with linked files. One qualified individual
who can tackle this task might be your local Autodesk reseller, if your reseller has an Autodesk