F-117 Nighthawk: Laser Cut Model
-Developed methods for the design of 3D faceted panels using CATIA V5 GSD
-Designed an F-117 model with exterior plates and internal supports structures
-Imported and modified part files in the Corel software using shop techniques and policies while furthering knowledge of laser-cut based manufacturing processes
-Assembled various exterior and interior 2D components to create a 3D model with exceptional accuracy and strength for display.
The F-117 Nighthawk has always been a intriguing aircraft to me; its faceted panels and unique design changed the course of aerial warfare into the 21st century. During the first weeks of the summer of 2020, I challenged myself to create a high fidelity model of an F-117 for 3D printing, yet the flat panel design of the Nighthawk inspired me to explore another alternative manufacturing option: laser-cutting. After discussing the idea with the professor who would later become my manager of my position at the laser-cut lab, I began to develop a process of creating angular planes using the intersect sketch tools to create two 3D straight lines from four 2D reference lines (2 2D lines for 1 3D curve). The result was a model made up of components, both surface and structural, that could be laser cut from eighth inch plywood. The professor who I originally discussed the idea with tasked me with manufacturing and assembling the model for training in the operation of the laser cutter. The assembly process lasted about a week, encountering the challenge of larger wood panels warping from the heat of the laser. However, through the entire process, I developed a procedure in faceted design, learned the basic operation of the laser cutter needed for my on-campus job, and further refined techniques in plywood/flat sheet manufacturing which will serve as a guide for future endeavors.
-Designed an F-117 model with exterior plates and internal supports structures
-Imported and modified part files in the Corel software using shop techniques and policies while furthering knowledge of laser-cut based manufacturing processes
-Assembled various exterior and interior 2D components to create a 3D model with exceptional accuracy and strength for display.
The F-117 Nighthawk has always been a intriguing aircraft to me; its faceted panels and unique design changed the course of aerial warfare into the 21st century. During the first weeks of the summer of 2020, I challenged myself to create a high fidelity model of an F-117 for 3D printing, yet the flat panel design of the Nighthawk inspired me to explore another alternative manufacturing option: laser-cutting. After discussing the idea with the professor who would later become my manager of my position at the laser-cut lab, I began to develop a process of creating angular planes using the intersect sketch tools to create two 3D straight lines from four 2D reference lines (2 2D lines for 1 3D curve). The result was a model made up of components, both surface and structural, that could be laser cut from eighth inch plywood. The professor who I originally discussed the idea with tasked me with manufacturing and assembling the model for training in the operation of the laser cutter. The assembly process lasted about a week, encountering the challenge of larger wood panels warping from the heat of the laser. However, through the entire process, I developed a procedure in faceted design, learned the basic operation of the laser cutter needed for my on-campus job, and further refined techniques in plywood/flat sheet manufacturing which will serve as a guide for future endeavors.
Aerospace Engineering
at
Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University-Prescott
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