Autodesk has updated its Fusion 360 product and unveiled new features and capabilities at Autodesk University, held in Las Vegas this week. The update, now available, includes Autodesk Nastran solver, two subscription options, and updates to computer-aided manufacturing capabilities.
Because Fusion 360 includes computer-aided design, CAM, and analysis features and tools, it can connect the complete product development process in a cloud-based platform. It’s available for both Mac and PC.
The Nastran finite element analysis software is now included in the Fusion 360 package. It analyzes linear and nonlinear stress, dynamics, and heat transfer characteristics of structures and mechanical components. With the tool, users can generate a design mesh and fine-tune the density of that mesh in specific areas to obtain a particular level of detail.
With the update, Autodesk Fusion 360 users now have two subscription options: the standard subscription tier and a new, ultimate subscription tier. The ultimate option includes additional advanced simulation and computer-aided manufacturing functionality. Student, startup, and hobbyist subscriptions, which are free, include access to ultimate features.
Ultimate subscription includes 1,000 cloud credits that can be used to perform certain tasks, such as creating a rendering or running a simulation in a cloud environment using Autodesk cloud services. Cloud credits are sold in packs of 100 for $100 and are available worldwide, though pricing in other currencies may vary.
Ultimate features include the following:
Different studies of multiple load cases can now be compared in a single workspace. This is especially useful when for shape optimization. Previously, users could see results one at a time of different studies that Fusion 360 had solved for.
A manage-contacts tool organizes contacts within a list by contact type, penetration type, and other information. Previously, if an assembly was very complex, going through the contact type for each part could be a long process.
Also included within simulation ultimate-subscription update is a bolt connector tool that drops bolts onto the part when users need to solve a study for a design that requires to be bolted onto another object.
A structural buckling feature allows users to set constraints, gravity direction, loads, and then to run a structural buckling study. The results will show exactly where the design is prone to buckle. This feature is only available via cloud credits.
Another ultimate feature, the nonlinear static study allows users to solve for linear static stress.
Event simulation is also now available to ultimate users as a preview function, meaning more features and functions for this capability are to come later. Event simulation lets users simulate realistic scenarios such as drop tests, snap fits, assembly forces, and loads created during use.
Another preview feature, a shape optimization preview, helps users optimize design shape. When given a set of loads, constraints, and mass targets, the feature solves for results and optimizes the design by “lightweighting.” In other words, it shows users where material can be removed without affecting structural integrity.
Autodesk Fusion 360 also includes a number of updates to CAM capabilities, both for standard and ultimate users, including a multi-axis contour feature and a WCS Probe features that ensures stock is positioned correctly so that problems aren’t encountered when parts are physically cut.
For new users or those who’d like a refresher, a getting started panel greets first-time users with simulation specific videos, as well as step-by-step tutorials. The getting started panel can be found in the help menu so users have access to it at all times.
