3D Modeled RC Plane

I wanted to laser cut a remote control plane but found it difficult to picture it when drawing it in a 2d sketch. So I went to fusion 360 and started modeling the pieces that would be eventually laser cut and fitted together. Each piece fits together using only pieces that are 1/8 inch thick. They slot into each other forming the entire rc plane. You can then insert a motor and servos that actuate the moveable ailerons, elevator, and rudder. If you wanted to actually fly the plane you would need to wrap the wings with some type of fabric or paper because the parts are just support ribs and wouldn't provide the right aerodynamics for flight.

All you need is a computer and 3d modeling software. I used fusion 360. If you eventually want to laser cut or 3d print this you would need those machines as well.

I began by looking at airplanes for inspiration and creating this simple body design that fixes the wings to the top.

From there I finished making the body and added lots of supports to keep it together. Make sure to include tabs that allow the parts to fit together.

Now its time to move on to the wings. You have to make sure there is a large area for the wing to connect to the body and so that it doesn't sag down when assembled. Add ribs to the top of the body to slot the wings into for lots of support.

We need to give the wings some type of shape if we want it to be able to fly. Create an airfoil shape and make ribs that will slide on to the wing. These ribs will give support and shape to whatever canvas we wrap around the wings. Add multiple supports to keep these ribs spaced correctly and secured to the wing.

This part can be difficult because once again we need to create an aerodynamic 3d shape out of 2d pieces. I made an interesting connector that connects a top and bottom plate together while keeping somewhat of a 3d aerodynamic shape. These ribs then connect to an axle that goes through the ribs we made in step 4.

After you finish with the wings and ailerons, make sure to copy one side of the wing over to the other, its time to begin the tail assembly. Start by making a slot in the back of the body and adding a basic horizontal stabilizer. Add slots in the stabilizer to accommodate the vertical stabilizer as well as some supports.

Now just add a vertical stabilizer that slots into the plate for the horizontal stabilizer. Add some supports as well.

Now you need to add an elevator and rudder to the horizontal and vertical stabilizers. I created a few clips that you can slide on the the stabilizers and then put an axle through. Theis connects the elevator and rudder to the stabilizers and allows them to move freely.

The last couple of steps include adding holes for the servo motors to go. These will control the ailerons, rudder, and elevator. Also make dure to add some landing gear and a mount for the motor in the front.