Search code examples
c#add-inautodesk-inventor

How to create an AddIn in Autodesk Inventor?


I would like to know the procedure for creating an Inventor Add-in using C# or VB.NET. Any settings to be made or how?

I've tried using templates from from various sources, but I got an error. If anyone has successfully done the process, it would be so helpful if you would guide me through it.

Thanks in advance.


Solution

  • I expect you have Inventor (2020) and VisualStudio (2017) installed.

    • Install DeveloperTools from SDK (C:\Users\Public\Documents\Autodesk\Inventor 2020\SDK). It creates new project templates to VS. Default template is not perfect, but works.

    • Create new project from template "Autodesk Inventor 2020 Addin".

    • Go to project properties and remove or disable any post-build action (write EXIT to the first line)
    • Compile empty addin.
    • See the Readme.txt in the project and follow instructions for register/unregister addin.
    • Check that the addin can be loaded. You can use Inventor AddIn manager ("C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor 2020\Bin\AddInMgr.exe"). Find and select your addin in the main window and check that the Location box is not empty.
    • Start Inventor and check that your addin is loaded correctly

    That's all

    Some troubleshooting is described here https://ekinssolutions.com/addins-visualstudio2017/