Cloud-based software for 3D modeling

3D modeling with Autodesk Fusion

The 3D modeling tools in Fusion are a game-changer, providing professionals and hobbyists alike with the power to bring their boldest ideas to life.

consumer product design team at work in their studio

What is 3D modeling?

3D modeling is a crucial component of product design, engineering, and manufacturing. It enables designers and engineers to create detailed virtual prototypes and test their functionality and performance before moving on to physical production. The resulting 3D models can be used to improve the design process, reduce errors, and increase efficiency in manufacturing.

3D model in Autodesk Fusion

What is 3D modeling software?

3D modeling software is a dynamic tool that enables the creation, manipulation, and visualization of digital 3D objects. It's pivotal in industries like architecture, animation, gaming, and manufacturing, allowing professionals to design intricate models and structures. With features like sculpting, texturing, and rendering, this software facilitates the creation of detailed and realistic 3D models. 

Fusion 3D modeling for consumer products

3D modeling for consumer product development

Product designers require solutions that help them bring consumer products to market faster and to easily transition from design to production.  Autodesk Fusion enables the rapid development of consumer products with powerful 3D design capabilities.

  • Innovate with generative design and create photo-realistic renderings
  • Iterate faster with simultaneous collaboration capabilities
  • Simplify project communications with connected teams in one platform

Benefits of 3D modeling in Autodesk Fusion

Comprehensive features

Fusion offers a wide range of professional level features to create 3D models, including sketching, surfacing, sheet metal, and more.

User-friendly interface

The Fusion interface is intuitive and easy to use, with accessible menus and toolbars that make navigation a breeze. Allowing anyone regardless of experience level to learn, deploy, and utilize quickly. 

Collaboration tools

Collaboration tools in Fusion enable users to work together in real-time, allowing for seamless sharing and feedback on designs.

Accessible learning resources

Autodesk Fusion provides a range of accessible learning resources that include videos, tutorials, and community forums. Making it easy for both professionals and hobbyists to learn and improve their skills.

Industries that use Autodesk Fusion 3D modeling software

Explore and learn from the case studies of various industries utilizing 3D modeling with Fusion.

Batch.Works sustainable designs using Fusion

Sustainable Manufacturing

Sustainable kid-friendly headphones

See how Batch.Works designs colorful, customizable headphones for kids with the planet in mind using 3D modeling features of Autodesk Fusion.

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Velavu's asset-tracking solutions with Fusion

Asset Tracking & Management

Customized asset-tracking solutions

Learn how Velavu leverages the 3D modeling capabilities of Autodesk Fusion to develop customized, award-winning, asset-tracking solutions that serve a broad spectrum of industries.

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Modeling safer motocross helmets using Fusion

Sports Equipments

Modeling safer motocross helmets

Discover how O'NEAL and Quintessential Design use Autodesk Fusion's 3D modeling capabilities to create a life-saving helmet equipped with precise crash detection for motocross and mountain biking.

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SIM racing equipments using Fusion

Racing Equipment Manufacturing

F1 inspired sim racing wheel development

Discover how Autodesk Fusion's 3D modeling was utilized by a team to create an F1-inspired SIM racing steering wheel, demonstrating integrated product development.

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Free Autodesk software for students and educators

Unlock educational access to Autodesk software

Autodesk is committed to helping educate tomorrow's leaders. Get free access to our entire portfolio of products with the Autodesk Education plan.

Autodesk Fusion 360 screenshot

How do you make a 3D model in Autodesk Fusion?

Autodesk Fusion offers multiple design spaces to create 3D models with capabilities like modeling, simulation, manufacturing, sheet metal, surfacing, and mesh workspaces. After selecting the appropriate workspace, you can use multiple professional tools to create basic shapes for ideation. Drawings for product documentation, robust mesh tools for 3D scanned objects, surfacing for industrial design, and even manufacturing models for the CAM environment. Then, refine your ideas using more features available in extensions - like product manufacturability insights from our Product Design Extension.

What users say about 3D modeling in Autodesk Fusion

3D modeling tools in Fusion

Autodesk Fusion includes robust 3D CAD, CAM, and CAE tools all in one package.

Direct modeling with Fusion 360

Direct modeling

The direct modeling tools in Autodesk Fusion allow you to modify the geometry of a model without having to edit the interim model stages. You can seamlessly make design changes without causing modeling errors.

 

 

Learn more about direct modeling with Autodesk Fusion
Parametric modeling with Fusion 360

Parametric modeling

Autodesk Fusion fully supports parametric modeling, the automatic change of an entire design when one dimensional value changes. With Autodesk Fusion, you can quickly resize, add features, and re-version a model and see the changes in real-time.

 

Learn more about parametric modeling
Surface modeling with Fusion 360

Surface modeling

The flexible toolset in Autodesk Fusion makes 3D surface modeling easy. Create the external aesthetics of an object using built-in tools like freeform sculpting, polygon manipulation, and parametric modeling.

 

 

Watch video about surface modeling
Freeform modeling with Fusion 360

Freeform modeling

Freeform tools provide an alternate modeling approach to explore and create T-spline based models in seconds using direct manipulation.

 

Learn more about Autodesk Fusion freeform modeling
Mesh modeling with Fusion 360

Mesh modeling

Edit and repair mesh files inside your CAD tool. Use the mesh to make a sketch cross section, then add parametric features to the design.

 

Learn to use the mesh modeling tools in Autodesk Fusion
Sheet metal modeling with Fusion 360

Sheet metal modeling

Autodesk Fusion includes tools to bend, edit, and flat pattern sheet metal designs. Capture all the steps to build sheet metal components and ensure their success through integration with our fabrication tools in the CAM environment.

 

Learn about Autodesk Fusion sheet metal modeling

3D modeling in Autodesk Fusion tutorials

Introduction to 3D modeling

Introduction to 3D modeling

This beginner-level CAD video series focuses on the transition from 2D to 3D design. 

 

Get started with 3D modeling
Solid 3D modeling basics

Solid 3D modeling basics

In this video series, you'll learn how to use the basic solid 3D modeling tools in Autodesk Fusion.

 

Learn more about 3D modeling basics
Mesh 3D modeling

Mesh 3D modeling

In this video series, you'll learn how to use parametric mesh 3D modeling tools in Autodesk Fusion.

 

Get started with Mesh modeling

Autodesk Fusion 3D modeling resources

Autodesk Fusion gives you the flexibility to choose your preferred modeling method when it's most convenient in your product development process. You can even combine the tools to enhance workflow and reduce the amount of time it takes to complete designs.

Learn what 3D modeling software is and why Autodesk Fusion is an ideal 3D modeling software for beginners and experts alike.

 

3D modeling software like Autodesk Fusion is a growing commodity for a good reason. Learn what CAD is and how it benefits designers and engineers at all levels.

 

Learn about the benefits of incorporating 3D modeling software into your product design workflow, including real-time collaboration and more.

 

Experience the transformative power of Autodesk Fusion in PCB design workflows, offering real-time updates, dynamic simulations, unified file management, and enhanced collaboration.

Discover how Autodesk Fusion streamlines PCB design workflows with its real-time updates, simulation capabilities, seamless file management, and enhanced collaboration features.

Embark on a journey into 3D modeling, where you'll delve into the Autodesk Shape Manager's capabilities, see how Fusion generates shapes, and enhance your skills by mastering key 3D modeling terminology.

Frequently asked questions about 3D modeling (FAQs)

Is Fusion a 3D modeling tool?

Yes, Fusion is a cloud-based 3D modeling, CAD, CAM, CAE, and PCB software platform for professional product design and manufacturing.

What is the best software for 3D modeling?

Fusion is the only integrated 3D modeling tool of its kind that let's you explore design iterations quickly with easy-to-use cloud CAD software.

Is 3D modeling easy?

Fusion's user interface was designed to support fast learning. There are various step-by-step video tutorials and documentation to help you get started.

How much does Fusion cost?

Fusion is available by monthly , annual , and three-year subscription. Purchase your subscription directly from the Autodesk store.

Is Fusion available for Mac?

Fusion from Autodesk is both PC- and Mac-compatible so you can use your preferred OS or both at no additional cost.

How do I create a new sketch in Fusion?

You can create a new sketch in Fusion by selecting an origin plane, a construction plane, or an existing flat face. Then, click the Create Sketch button in the tool bar.

What file formats does Fusion support?

Fusion supports a wide array of file formats. For design files, it supports .f3d, .igs, .iges, .sat, .sab, .dwg, .dxf, .stp, .step, .stl, .fbx, .obj, .skp, .3dm, .zip, .rar, etc. For CAM files, it supports .cam360, .cps, .cnc, .nc, etc. For drawings, it supports .dwg, .dxf, .f3d, .pdf, etc. Learn more here.

Is there a student version of Fusion?

Yes, Autodesk provides Fusion free for students and educators for 1 year. They simply need to sign up with their educational email addresses to get access.

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Legal terms and conditions

Free Autodesk software and/or cloud-based services are subject to acceptance of and compliance with the terms and conditions of the terms of use and/or other terms that accompany such software or cloud-based services. Software and cloud-based services subject to an Educational license or subscription may be used by eligible users solely for Educational Purposes and shall not be used for commercial, professional or any other for-profit purposes.