Fusion 360 Aerofoil Modelling

Introduction

This tutorial guides you through the process of modeling a functioning aerofoil in Fusion 360, based on Mr. Greene's Fab Lab video. You will learn to create an aerofoil model, analyze its aerodynamic qualities, and prepare it for flight simulations in Autodesk CFD. This step-by-step guide will help you understand the basics of aerofoil design and its significance in achieving successful flight.

Step 1: Prepare Your Tools and Workspace

• Install Fusion 360: Ensure you have Autodesk Fusion 360 installed on your computer.
• Familiarize with the Interface: Spend some time getting to know the layout and tools available in Fusion 360, as this will make the following steps easier.

Step 2: Create a New Wing Component

• Open Fusion 360 and create a new design.
• Select "New Component" to start designing your wing.

Step 3: Apply a NACA Sketch Profile

• Choose a NACA Profile: Use a predefined NACA profile for your aerofoil. These profiles are available online and provide a good starting point for aerodynamic shapes.
• Import the profile into Fusion 360.
• Position the sketch properly on your workspace.

Step 4: Create Construction Plane

• Go to the "Construct" menu and select "Plane at Angle" to create a construction plane.
• Adjust spacing based on your design requirements, ensuring you have ample room for your sketches.

Step 5: Size and Place the Aerofoil Sketch

• Scale the Sketch: Use the "Scale" tool to adjust the size of the aerofoil to match your glider specifications.
• Positioning: Move the sketch into the desired location, ensuring it aligns well with the rest of your glider design.

Step 6: Copy Aerofoil Sketch to Planes

• Duplicate the aerofoil sketch across the necessary planes to create the profile of your wing.
• Use the "Mirror" function for efficient copying if needed.

Step 7: Connect to the Fuselage

• Create a new sketch for the fuselage.
• Use the "Loft" tool to connect the aerofoil shape to the fuselage design.
• Ensure a smooth transition between the wing and fuselage for optimal aerodynamics.

Step 8: Scale and Position Loft Sketches

• Adjust the loft sketches for size and position to ensure they match your design goals.
• Pay attention to the curvature and flow of the wing shape.

Step 9: Create the Loft

• Select the sketches you want to use for the loft.
• Use the "Loft" feature in Fusion 360 to create the 3D shape of the wing.

Step 10: Mirror the Wing

• Use the "Mirror" tool to create a symmetric wing design if you're creating a bi-wing or similar structure.
• Ensure the mirrored wing maintains the same dimensions and characteristics as the original.

Conclusion

You have successfully modeled a functioning aerofoil in Fusion 360. This process not only helps you create a design ready for analysis in Autodesk CFD but also lays the groundwork for understanding the aerodynamic principles involved in flight. The next steps involve transferring your design to Autodesk CFD to analyze aerodynamic qualities and lift forces, which are crucial for ensuring your glider's successful flight. Happy modeling!