Translates analytical data into Inventor assemblies, components, and sketches.
If a late-stage calculation change requires thickening a shell course, the CAD model must be manually updated, creating version control nightmares. What is the PV Elite Inventor Plugin?
Once the 3D model is generated in Inventor, creating fabrication drawings becomes a rapid, semi-automated task. Because the parts are modeled natively, Inventor can instantly extract metadata to populate a comprehensive Bill of Materials (BOM), including material specifications, weights, and quantities. Step-by-Step Workflow: From Calculation to 3D Model
The plugin generates the 3D model. Users can then apply Inventor’s CAD tools for final detailing. pv elite inventor plugin
Implementing the plugin into your daily engineering routine follows a straightforward, logical sequence:
Once the plugin is properly installed and enabled, the workflow for importing a PV Elite model into Autodesk Inventor is straightforward:
Reads 3D data directly from PV Elite 2017 SP1 or later. Once the 3D model is generated in Inventor,
What works well
However, the same review notes persistent difficulties with CAD software integration. Furthermore, more critical reviews on engineering forums point to deeper issues. One user described a frustrating experience with a "Pressure Vessel/Heat Exchanger Design Plugin," citing that made it "nearly unusable," along with reports of unprofessional customer support and the lack of a refund policy, leading to a strong recommendation against its purchase. These polarized views highlight that while the integration concept is robust, execution and support can sometimes be inconsistent.
The plugin is typically available for licensed users through the website. Users can then apply Inventor’s CAD tools for
Once imported, the model’s layers are visible within Inventor. Users can toggle specific components—such as flanges, nozzles, or shells—on or off to simplify the workspace.
The plugin can automatically populate an Inventor parts list with component counts and properties. Users can customize these tables by adding specific Inventor properties like "Flange Class".