What does the 'Extrude' command do in Autodesk Inventor?

The 'Extrude' command in Autodesk Inventor is primarily used to create a three-dimensional shape from a two-dimensional sketch. When a user has defined a 2D profile or shape in a sketch, the Extrude command allows them to extend or project that sketch into the third dimension, thereby generating a solid model. This can be done by adding material (making the shape thicker) or, in specific cases, by cutting away material to create indentations or holes, depending on the settings chosen during the extrusion process.

The functionality of the Extrude command is foundational in solid modeling, as it provides a means to transform flat designs into 3D objects that can be further manipulated, combined, or refined. Understanding this command enables users to effectively sculpt parts needed in assemblies, and it is essential for creating components in various engineering and manufacturing applications.

While the other options describe important features in Autodesk Inventor, they pertain to different operations. The command for cutting material reflects the 'Revolve' command or 'Cut' feature, fillets involve modifying edges of existing 3D models with the 'Fillet' command, and creating complex surfaces relates to tools designed specifically for surface modeling, not to the fundamental operation of extrusion.