Autodesk buys Solid Dynamics

Autodesk said Monday it is acquiring a French company that specializes in technology for motion simulation and analysis.

The San Rafael, Calif.-based company, known for its computer-aided design, animation and modeling packages, is buying Solid Dynamics, which makes products aimed at designers in the manufacturing market. The French company's technology is built to simulate, analyze, test and optimize physical motion and loading in mechanical assemblies, thereby eliminating the need to build physical prototypes.

Terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Solid Dynamics' technology is already used by Autodesk customers in conjunction with the 3D design software Autodesk Inventor. Autodesk aims to integrate the technology into future releases of its software line.

Spending on 3D tools is expected to hit $3.2 billion this year as more and more industries make the shift to 3D.