Fusion 360 Improvements

Software Fusion 360 - CAD
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I know we get lots of Fusion 360 updates but I found a few that seemed worth learning today:

Assembly with constraints:

Design

Assembly Just Got Faster: Introducing Constraints in Fusion

Say hello to a brand-new way to build assemblies in Fusion, faster, more intuitively, and with far greater flexibility.

With the new Constraints feature, you can define how components relate to each other using familiar constraint methods, ideal for complex assemblies across industries like consumer products, machinery, and more.

Unlike joints, which create a one-to-one relationship, constraints let you define multiple connections in a single command. For example, you can now use one constraint to connect a bracket simultaneously to a frame and a panel dramatically simplifying your workflow. Having all these relationships in one command makes your assembly neater and easier to make changes if needed. For those of you transitioning from Inventor or other CAD tools, these workflows will feel familiar and intuitive, easing the learning curve and accelerating productivity.

Enhanced Offset Capability

We are excited to announce improvements to the offset feature based on your feedback: You can now create offset curves from any existing offset curve, even when ‘Match Topology’ is turned off.

Additionally, have improved the user interface to align with other features like ‘Extrude,’ making it easier and more intuitive for you to use.

Mesh Texture Extrude

We have an exciting mesh modeling update: Mesh texture extrude! With this feature, an image can be used to generate a textured surface on a mesh body. You can customize your texture extrusion by choosing the extrusion type, clearance from edges, blend distances and more in this new dialog. You can preview the outcome and easily generate the textured mesh model you desire.

AutoConstrain Enhancements

AutoConstrain is now more powerful and easier to use than ever before. For those who frequently create turned parts or perform revolves, we have introduced Diametric dimensions. This new feature automatically recognizes your center lines and provides the diameter dimensions you’ve been asking for.

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Well, if i use it every day I might get excited.

I learn just enough to muddle through a project.

The two I really need to lean is Mesh section sketch to convert 3D scans to workable drawings, and using parameters.

I used it one time (parameters) when I was making 3D printed compartments for my durham containers/drawers/trays. Super handy.

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@ChelanJim Thanks for the head’s up. Usually I just get annoyed at updates taking time away from starting Fusion, but some of these look interesting. New constraints and the changes to the offset tool.

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I understand. I am “on and off” about learning new things. A few months ago I signed up for a 12 month trial of SOLID WORKS. It is an amazing program but I just can’t get too excited about it. Since I set up a new computer, that is one program that I did not load. I may not pursue it any longer because I get what I need from Fusion 360.

I actually was thinking about you when I saw that. I know you do assemblies with components sometimes. I have not tried this new feature but I plan to.

I really want to see how the offset and extrusions to surfaces work. If it works like I think, it would remove the steps used with creating a body and then using the combine tool to remove the excess.

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Yes, assemblies, exactly. Previously if you had multiple relationships then you sort of had to do things like create rigid subassemblies. I’m looking forward to learning about this ‘multi constraint’ feature.

Re offsets, I ‘think’ they removed the restriction that you couldn’t offset FROM an offset profile. That’s good because the ‘old’ set up, if you offset from a projection, for example, to create a clearance profile, you couldn’t offset from that new profile if you wanted to add a fixed thickness. You had to offset the second profile from the projection. If you change the clearance, your thickness gets messed up.

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