Autodesk.inventor.interop.dll -
Rating: 4.5/5 – Indispensable but frustrating.
autodesk.inventor.interop.dll is the only practical way to automate Inventor from modern .NET languages. It works reliably for 90% of tasks, but the remaining 10% (memory management, cryptic errors, deployment) will test your patience. Master the quirks, always test with Marshal.ReleaseComObject, and keep the Autodesk Inventor API Help chm file bookmarked.
Recommendation: Use it, but wrap all Inventor calls in IDisposable helper classes to enforce cleanup. Consider libraries like Inventor-API-helper (open source) that abstract the worst interop pain away. Without this DLL, you cannot write .NET code for Inventor. With it, you can build anything from a simple parameter updater to a full generative design tool.
Understanding Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll: The Gateway to Inventor API Development
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is a critical component for developers looking to automate, extend, or integrate with Autodesk Inventor. It acts as the primary bridge—or interop assembly—between the .NET framework and Inventor's underlying Component Object Model (COM).
Whether you are building a custom add-in, a standalone automation tool, or an iLogic utility, understanding this DLL is the first step toward mastering the Inventor API. What is Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll?
Technically, this file is a Primary Interop Assembly (PIA). Because Autodesk Inventor is built using COM technology, modern .NET languages like C# or VB.NET cannot communicate with it directly. The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll contains the definitions of all Inventor classes, interfaces, and methods in a format that the .NET compiler can understand. Key Functions of the Interop Assembly
Namespace Access: By referencing this DLL, you gain access to the Inventor namespace. This allows you to use shorthand like Imports Inventor or using Inventor; to call upon thousands of objects like Application, Document, and PartComponentDefinition.
Type Marshalling: It handles the translation of data types between the COM world and the .NET world, ensuring that strings, integers, and complex objects are passed correctly between your code and the software.
IntelliSense Support: When developing in IDEs like Visual Studio, this assembly provides the metadata required for auto-completion and documentation tooltips, which is essential for navigating the massive Inventor object model. Working with the Inventor Object Model
Once you have referenced the interop DLL, you typically start by connecting to the Inventor Application Object. This is the "root" of everything.
Connecting to the Session: Developers use the GetActiveObject method or create a new instance of Inventor.Application to establish a link to the running software.
Accessing Documents: From the application object, you can drill down into specific files, such as Part files (.ipt) or Assembly files (.iam).
Automation: You can programmatically create geometry, modify parameters, and export drawings to formats like .dwg or .pdf. Best Practices for Developers
Embed Interop Types: In modern Visual Studio versions, it is recommended to set the "Embed Interop Types" property to True for this reference. This embeds only the specific metadata your project needs into your final executable, removing the need to distribute the actual DLL alongside your application.
Version Compatibility: The interop DLL is version-specific (e.g., the DLL for Inventor 2024 may have subtle differences from 2023). Always ensure you are referencing the version that matches your target environment. You can find these in the Autodesk Developer Network (ADN) resources.
COM Object Management: Since you are working with COM through an interop layer, remember to properly release objects from memory (using Marshal.ReleaseComObject) to prevent Inventor processes from "hanging" in the background after your code finishes.
By leveraging Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll, you move beyond manual design and into the realm of high-efficiency CAD engineering, allowing for complex generative design and seamless workflow automation.
Lesson 3: A First Look at Code for my First Inventor Plug-In
The Role of autodesk.inventor.interop.dll in CAD Automation In the world of mechanical design and engineering, Autodesk Inventor stands as a powerhouse for 3D modeling. However, for developers and engineers looking to push the software beyond its standard interface, the autodesk.inventor.interop.dll
is the essential gateway. This Dynamic Link Library (DLL) serves as the primary bridge between the Inventor application and external programming environments like C# or VB.NET. What is an Interop Assembly?
To understand this specific file, one must understand the concept of "COM Interop." Autodesk Inventor is built using COM (Component Object Model) technology. Modern development frameworks, like .NET, cannot communicate with COM objects directly because they handle memory and data types differently. autodesk.inventor.interop.dll Primary Interop Assembly (PIA)
. It contains the definitions of Inventor’s API (Application Programming Interface), "wrapping" the COM interfaces into a format that .NET languages can understand. This allows a developer to write code in a modern IDE like Visual Studio and have it execute commands inside Inventor. Key Functions and Capabilities
When a developer references this DLL in a project, they gain access to the entire hierarchical object model of Inventor. This includes: Application Control:
Starting, closing, or switching between different sessions of Inventor. Document Management: Programmatically creating, opening, or saving Part ( ), Assembly ( ), and Drawing ( Geometry Creation:
Automating the generation of sketches, extrusions, fillets, and complex surfaces. Assembly Manipulation:
Constraining parts together, checking for interferences, and generating Bills of Materials (BOM). iProperties Access:
Reading and writing metadata like Part Number, Material, or Mass Properties for data management. Why is it Important? The use of this DLL is the foundation for Design Automation
. Instead of a designer manually spending hours modifying dimensions for a custom order, a developer can write a script that pulls data from an Excel sheet or a SQL database and uses the interop to rebuild the model automatically. This reduces human error and significantly speeds up the "Engineer-to-Order" workflow. Integration and Deployment autodesk.inventor.interop.dll
is typically located within the "Bin" folder of the Inventor installation directory. When building an application, developers often set the "Embed Interop Types" property to True in Visual Studio. This merges the necessary parts of the DLL into the final executable, ensuring that the application can run on any machine with Inventor installed without needing the specific DLL file to be moved around. autodesk.inventor.interop.dll
is more than just a file; it is the fundamental translator that allows software to "talk" to hardware design. By leveraging this assembly, companies can transform Autodesk Inventor from a manual modeling tool into a fully automated engine for engineering innovation. Are you planning to use this DLL for a standalone executable or are you building an directly for the Inventor ribbon?
The Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL: A Comprehensive Guide
The autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file is a crucial component of the Autodesk Inventor software, a popular 3D computer-aided design (CAD) tool used by engineers, architects, and designers worldwide. In this article, we will delve into the world of Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL, exploring its purpose, functionality, and importance in the CAD ecosystem.
What is Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL?
The autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file, also known as the Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL, is a dynamic link library (DLL) file that enables interoperability between Autodesk Inventor and other software applications. The term "interop" is short for interoperability, which refers to the ability of different systems or applications to communicate and exchange data seamlessly.
The Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL is a .NET assembly that provides a set of APIs (Application Programming Interfaces) and interfaces for developers to interact with Autodesk Inventor programmatically. This DLL file allows external applications to access and manipulate Inventor data, such as 3D models, drawings, and assemblies, without requiring a full installation of Autodesk Inventor.
Purpose and Functionality
The primary purpose of the autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file is to facilitate communication between Autodesk Inventor and other software applications, enabling a range of functionalities, including:
Importance in the CAD Ecosystem
The autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file plays a vital role in the CAD ecosystem, as it enables seamless communication between Autodesk Inventor and other software applications. This interoperability is crucial in various industries, such as: autodesk.inventor.interop.dll
Common Issues and Troubleshooting
While the autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file is a critical component of the Autodesk Inventor software, it can sometimes cause issues, such as:
To troubleshoot these issues, users can try:
Conclusion
The autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file is a critical component of the Autodesk Inventor software, enabling interoperability between Autodesk Inventor and other software applications. Its functionality and importance in the CAD ecosystem make it a vital tool for engineers, architects, and designers worldwide. By understanding the purpose, functionality, and common issues related to the Autodesk Inventor Interop DLL, users can optimize their workflow, improve collaboration, and reduce errors.
Additional Resources
For more information on the autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file and Autodesk Inventor, please refer to the following resources:
By providing a comprehensive guide to the autodesk.inventor.interop.dll file, we hope to have shed light on the importance of this critical component in the CAD ecosystem and empower users to optimize their workflow and improve collaboration.
Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the primary primary library required to programmatically control Autodesk Inventor using .NET languages like C# or Visual Basic. It acts as a bridge (COM Interop) between your managed code and Inventor's underlying COM-based API. www.hjalte.nl 1. Locating the DLL You will typically find the library in the folder of your Inventor installation: www.hjalte.nl
C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor [Version]\Bin\Public Assemblies\Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll Alternative Path: Some versions may also store it directly in ...\Bin\Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll www.hjalte.nl 2. Setting Up Your Project
To use the DLL in Visual Studio, follow these critical configuration steps: Add Reference: Right-click your project, select Add Reference , and browse to the path mentioned above. Embed Interop Types: Set this property to . Keeping it at
(the default) can cause unexpected behavior, especially when working with legacy code or specific Inventor objects. Copy Local: Usually set to
if you are developing an Add-In that will run within Inventor's memory space). www.hjalte.nl 3. Basic Code Implementation The library exposes the Inventor.Application object, which is the root of the entire object model. Common C# Initialization: // Use the interop namespace // Attempt to get a running instance of Inventor
Application _invApp = (Application)System.Runtime.InteropServices.Marshal.GetActiveObject( "Inventor.Application" Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard 4. Core Object Model Hierarchy Understanding the Inventor Object Model is essential for effective use of the DLL: Application: The top-level object. Documents: Provides access to all open files ( PartDocument AssemblyDocument DrawingDocument ComponentDefinition:
Found within Part and Assembly documents; this is where you modify geometry or parameters. Parameters: Allows you to read and write dimensions programmatically. 5. Troubleshooting & Tips Version Compatibility:
Ensure your project targets a .NET Framework version compatible with your Inventor version (e.g., Inventor 2025 typically requires .NET 8). Debugging:
If your program won't start, set the "Start Action" in your project properties to point directly to Inventor.exe iLogic Integration:
If you need to trigger iLogic rules via your code, you will also need to reference Autodesk.iLogic.Interfaces.dll www.hjalte.nl creating an Add-In Creating an Inventor Addin - Jelte de Jong
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the Primary Interop Assembly (PIA) required for developers to interact with the Autodesk Inventor API using .NET languages like C# or VB.NET. Core Functionality
Bridge to COM: It acts as a wrapper that allows managed .NET code to communicate with Inventor’s underlying COM-based object model.
Automation: It is used to create standalone .exe applications that control Inventor or to develop Add-ins (DLLs) that run directly inside the Inventor environment.
Namespace Access: Referencing this DLL provides access to the Inventor namespace, which includes classes for parts, assemblies, drawings, and iLogic. Standard File Locations
The DLL is typically installed alongside Inventor in the following directory:
C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor [Version]\Bin\Public Assemblies\Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll
GAC Location: Inventor also installs it to the Global Assembly Cache (GAC), allowing applications to find it without having it in the local folder: C:\Windows\Microsoft.NET\assembly\GAC_MSIL\Autodesk.Inventor.Interop. Development Best Practices Recommendation Embed Interop Types False
Setting this to "True" can lead to unexpected behavior in older versions or specific API calls. Copy Local True (or False)
Often set to True for standalone apps to ensure the DLL is present, but False for Add-ins since the DLL is already in Inventor's memory. Version Compatibility Use older versions
You can often use a DLL from an older version (e.g., 2018) to maintain compatibility with newer versions of Inventor. Common Issues
FileNotFoundException: Often occurs in environments like Vault Job Processor or Forge Design Automation if the DLL is missing from the local execution folder.
Missing from COM Tab: In newer Visual Studio versions, it may not appear in the standard COM reference list; you must manually Browse to the Public Assemblies folder to add it. Different version of Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the primary Primary Interop Assembly (PIA) that allows .NET-based applications (like C# or VB.NET) to communicate with the Autodesk Inventor COM-based API. It acts as a bridge, translating managed .NET calls into the unmanaged COM commands that the Inventor software understands. Core Technical Concepts
COM Wrapper: Since Inventor's internal architecture is built on COM, this DLL "wraps" those objects into a format .NET developers can use.
File Location: Typically found in the Inventor installation directory under C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor [Version]\Bin\Public Assemblies\.
Versioning: Each version of Inventor has its own specific interop version (e.g., Inventor 2026 uses version 30.0). Mismatches can cause "Could not load file or assembly" errors. Implementation and Deployment
To use the interop library in a custom project (like a Visual Studio add-in):
Reference: Add a direct reference to the DLL from the Public Assemblies folder. Configuration:
Embed Interop Types: Usually set to False to avoid issues with event handling and specific COM types.
Copy Local: Set to True to ensure the specific version of the DLL is bundled with your compiled application.
Apprentice Server: For lightweight operations (like reading iProperties without launching the full Inventor GUI), developers use the Apprentice component also found within this interop. Known Challenges Vault 2026 Client outdated dlls - Forums, Autodesk Rating: 4
Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the essential Primary Interop Assembly (PIA) that acts as a bridge between .NET-based applications (C#, VB.NET) and the Autodesk Inventor COM API Technical Review Core Purpose
: It enables developers to programmatically control Autodesk Inventor, allowing for the automation of design tasks, creation of custom add-ins, and extraction of metadata or geometry. Functionality
: It provides full read and write access to Inventor's data types, including parts ( ), assemblies ( ), and drawings ( Version Sensitivity The DLL is typically located in
C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor 20xx\Bin\Public Assemblies
Compatibility is version-specific; developers must reference the interop that matches the installed version of Inventor to ensure API features (like newer parameters or methods) are accessible. Performance
: Since it relies on a COM interface, it is subject to single-threaded performance constraints typical of the Inventor engine. Efficient design requires minimizing "chatty" calls between the .NET application and the COM server. Stack Overflow Developer Experience Highlights Ease of Use : Readily available as part of the Inventor Add-in Template
or via standard installation folders, making it straightforward to start a project in Visual Studio. Integration
: Recent explorations have even shown its utility in connecting AI-driven apps (like ChatGPT) to CAD workflows. Deployment Note
: For modern .NET development, developers often choose to "Embed Interop Types" to avoid having to redistribute the DLL with their application, though this can sometimes limit access to specific legacy interface definitions. Critical Considerations Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll on WinServer 64-bit 2012 R2
What is autodesk.inventor.interop.dll?
autodesk.inventor.interop.dll is a Dynamic Link Library (DLL) file that is part of the Autodesk Inventor software. It is an Interoperability library that enables communication between Autodesk Inventor and other applications.
What is its purpose?
The primary purpose of autodesk.inventor.interop.dll is to provide a set of libraries and APIs that allow developers to interact with Autodesk Inventor programmatically. This DLL file enables interoperability between Autodesk Inventor and other software applications, allowing them to exchange data, automate tasks, and integrate Inventor's functionality.
Common uses of autodesk.inventor.interop.dll
Here are some common scenarios where autodesk.inventor.interop.dll is used:
Error messages and troubleshooting
If you're experiencing issues with autodesk.inventor.interop.dll, here are some common error messages and troubleshooting steps:
Best practices
To avoid issues with autodesk.inventor.interop.dll, follow these best practices:
Conclusion
In conclusion, autodesk.inventor.interop.dll is a critical component of Autodesk Inventor that enables interoperability and automation. By understanding its purpose, common uses, and best practices, you can effectively utilize this DLL to extend the functionality of Autodesk Inventor and integrate it with other applications. If you encounter any issues, troubleshooting steps can help you resolve them quickly.
The location varies by Inventor version and whether you are using a 32-bit or 64-bit OS. Typical paths include:
For VBA (Visual Basic for Applications) environments inside Inventor, this DLL is referenced automatically. For external .NET applications (standalone EXEs or Inventor add-ins), you must manually add a reference to this file in your Visual Studio project.
Overall Rating: 4.5/5 (Essential but Quirky)
| Error | Likely Cause | Fix |
|-------|--------------|-----|
| Could not load file or assembly 'autodesk.inventor.interop' | Copy Local = True, or missing Inventor | Set Copy Local = False; ensure Inventor is installed |
| Unable to cast COM object of type '...' | Mixed interop versions | Clean solution; re-reference correct Inventor version’s interop |
| Method not found | Add-in compiled against newer Inventor, running on older | Use conditional compilation or separate builds |
Sophisticated developers write bootstrap code that reads the installed Inventor version from the registry (e.g., HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Autodesk\Inventor) and dynamically resolves the correct interop assembly path using Assembly.LoadFrom().
The "autodesk.inventor.interop.dll" file plays a crucial role in the interoperability of Autodesk Inventor with other applications and in facilitating various functionalities within the software. While issues with DLL files can be frustrating, they are often resolvable through standard troubleshooting steps.
Understanding Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll: The Key to Inventor API Development
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the primary bridge between the .NET framework and the internal Component Object Model (COM) of Autodesk Inventor. It is an essential library for any developer looking to automate design tasks, build custom add-ins, or create external applications that interact with Inventor data. What is the Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll?
This file is a Primary Interop Assembly (PIA). Because Autodesk Inventor is built on a COM-based architecture, modern programming languages like C# or VB.NET cannot communicate with it directly. The interop DLL acts as a "translator," exposing Inventor's functions, classes, and properties as manageable .NET objects. Core Functions and Use Cases
Developers use this library to access the Inventor API, enabling a wide range of automation possibilities:
Automation of Repetitive Tasks: Writing scripts to automatically generate parts, update parameters, or export drawings.
Custom Add-ins: Creating specialized ribbons and toolsets within the Inventor interface.
External Integration: Connecting Inventor with external ERP or PLM systems to sync bill of materials (BOM) data.
Geometric Manipulation: Using code to combine solid bodies or modify complex assemblies. How to Reference the DLL in Your Project
To start coding, you must first add a reference to this DLL in your development environment (typically Microsoft Visual Studio).
Locate the File: It is usually found in the Inventor installation directory (e.g., C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor ).
Add Reference: In Visual Studio, right-click on your project's References and browse for Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll.
Set Properties: It is a best practice to set "Embed Interop Types" to True in the property window. This allows your application to run on different versions of Inventor without needing the exact DLL version on the user's machine. Importance in the CAD Ecosystem The autodesk
Import Namespace: Add the following directive to the top of your code file: C#: using Inventor; VB.NET: Imports Inventor The Inventor Object Model
Once referenced, the DLL provides access to the hierarchical object model. At the top of this hierarchy is the Inventor.Application object, which represents the entire software session. From there, you can drill down into specific documents: PartDocument (.ipt): For individual component modeling.
AssemblyDocument (.iam): For managing relationships between components.
DrawingDocument (.idw/.dwg): For creating 2D production drawings. Common Challenges
Version Compatibility: While "Embed Interop Types" helps, major API changes between Inventor versions can occasionally break code. Always test your scripts against the specific Inventor release version you are targeting.
Performance: Extensive API calls can be slow. It is often faster to use iLogic for simple rule-based automation and the full API for complex, large-scale applications.
By mastering the Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll, developers can transform Inventor from a standard modeling tool into a highly customized engine tailored to specific engineering workflows. AI responses may include mistakes. Learn more
Lesson 3: A First Look at Code for my First Inventor Plug-In
To develop a 3D solid text using the Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll, you must first reference the library in your project and then use the EmbossFeatures or ExtrudeFeatures objects to turn a text sketch into a solid body. 1. Setup the Environment
You must add a reference to the Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll in your Visual Studio project to access the Inventor API .
Location: Typically found in C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor 20xx\Bin\Public Assemblies.
Properties: Set "Embed Interop Types" to False and "Copy Local" to True to ensure proper runtime referencing from the Global Assembly Cache (GAC). 2. Implementation Steps
Developing solid text involves a three-step programmatic workflow: A. Create a Sketch and Add Text
Create a PlanarSketch on a part face or work plane, then add a TextBox containing your string.
' Example: Creating a text box on a sketch Dim oSketch As PlanarSketch = oCompDef.Sketches.Add(oWorkPlane) Dim oPoint As Point2d = oTransGeom.CreatePoint2d(0, 0) Dim oTextBox As TextBox = oSketch.TextBoxes.AddFormattedText("Your Text Here", oPoint) Use code with caution. Copied to clipboard B. Select the Profile
The text box acts as the profile for your 3D feature. Use the Profile property of the sketch to capture the text geometry. C. Apply the 3D Feature You have two primary options to create the "solid" effect:
Embossing: Use the EmbossFeatures Object to raise or recess text relative to a face. This is ideal for curved surfaces.
Extruding: Use ExtrudeFeatures to create a standard 3D solid from the text profile. This is better for simple, flat-surface 3D text. Different version of Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is a critical primary interop assembly (PIA) that acts as a bridge between the Autodesk Inventor COM API and the .NET environment. It allows developers using languages like C# or VB.NET to programmatically control Inventor, automate tasks, and create custom add-ins. 1. Primary Purpose and Functionality
API Gateway: It exposes Inventor’s internal objects (like Application, Documents, PartDocument, and AssemblyDocument) to .NET developers.
Automation & Add-ins: It is the foundation for creating both "Out-of-Process" executables (standalone apps) and "In-Process" Add-ins that run directly inside Inventor's memory space.
Apprentice Server: It is frequently used with the Apprentice Server, a lightweight version of Inventor used to read/write iProperties and metadata without launching the full CAD UI. 2. Technical Specifications
File Location: Typically found at C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor .
Version Mapping: The assembly version often corresponds to the Inventor release. For example, Version 24.x aligns with Inventor 2020, while Version 30.x aligns with Inventor 2026.
Deployment: Developers are generally advised not to redistribute this DLL. Instead, it should be referenced from the user's local Inventor installation or the Global Assembly Cache (GAC). 3. Key Challenges & Expert Solutions
Developers frequently encounter versioning and environment conflicts. Below are the consensus "best practices" from the Autodesk Community and technical support: Different version of Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll
The Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll is the primary bridge between the .NET programming environment and the Autodesk Inventor API [5.4, 5.23]. As a Primary Interop Assembly (PIA), it translates the underlying COM (Component Object Model) technology of Inventor into a format that modern languages like C#, VB.NET, and Python can understand [5.5, 5.23]. Core Role and Utility
This DLL is essential for developers looking to customize or automate the design software. Its main functions include:
API Access: It exposes the entire object hierarchy of Inventor—such as the Application, Document, and Part objects—allowing external programs to "talk" to the software [5.6, 5.23].
Task Automation: Developers use it to automate repetitive tasks, such as updating parameters across hundreds of files or generating automatic bill-of-materials [5.5, 5.28].
Custom Tooling: It allows for the creation of plug-ins and add-ins that live directly within the Inventor interface [5.5, 5.17]. Strategic Implementation Tips
For effective development, experienced users often follow specific "best practices" to avoid common pitfalls:
Reference Management: It is generally recommended to copy the DLL directly into your project folder and reference that local copy rather than the one in the Inventor installation directory [5.11, 5.16]. This ensures that your project remains stable even if the software is updated [5.11].
Backward Compatibility: To ensure an add-in works across multiple versions of Inventor, developers often reference the oldest version of the DLL they intend to support [5.15, 5.32]. For instance, a plug-in built with the 2017 interop library will typically still run in Inventor 2026 [5.15].
Visual Exploration: Once referenced in Visual Studio, you can use the Object Browser to navigate the tree of objects and search for specific methods or properties directly [5.4]. Troubleshooting Common Issues
Missing COM Reference: If the library doesn't appear in the standard COM tab in Visual Studio, you can manually browse to: C:\Program Files\Autodesk\Inventor [Version]\Bin\Public Assemblies\Autodesk.Inventor.Interop.dll [5.13, 5.16].
Deployment Errors: If your app fails on other machines, check that "Embed Interop Types" is set correctly in your project settings—setting it to "False" while setting "Copy Local" to "True" is often required for complex automation tasks [5.19].
Are you planning to build a standalone application or a plug-in that runs inside the Inventor interface?