Made to measure: 3D software tailors jet suit

18th May 2017

Mick Elliott

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DesignSpark Mechanical 3D modelling software tool from RS Components (RS) was used in the development of the ‘Daedalus’ jet-engine flight suit, which was demonstrated at a recent TED conference in Vancouver. The ‘Daedalus’ flight suit is the brainchild of Richard Browning, who early last year began working on his vision to create a viable anti-gravity jet-engine suit, as well as building a company that could re-imagine human flight.

Throughout 2016, Browning and his team designed and built the Daedalus prototype suit, including testing and multiple design iterations, before filing patents for the technology and launching Gravity, the world's first human-propulsion company.

The Daedalus design team, which included experienced CAD operators, used complex 3D design software to create the initial CAD renditions for the first suit prototype. However, Browning wanted to make changes to the design and shape 3D models himself.

This would have meant at least one week of intensive training on the CAD tools, which was simply not possible given Browning’s busy schedule and the timescales for the project.

He turned to the free-to-download DesignSpark Mechanical 3D design software from RS, which uses direct modelling technology rather than the parametric methods used by traditional CAD software.

When combined with DesignSpark Mechanical’s highly intuitive functionality, this can enable a user to graduate from novice to CAD expert within a matter of hours, as users only need to use a few basic functions within the tool to add or directly modify existing model geometry.

The tool also enables users to move between different material rendering modes, such as metal or plastic, as well as enabling them to collaborate with others via the software’s built-in 3D PDF generator.

Developed in conjunction with SpaceClaim, a provider of flexible and affordable 3D modelling software for engineers, DesignSpark Mechanical is a key tool in the RS DesignSpark initiative to provide engineers with resources that enable them to rapidly develop prototypes in the product concept design stage.

The software is also available with a pair of extended professional engineering options, which turns the tool into a highly capable and low-cost 3D CAD solution.

“We are thrilled that Daedalus creator Richard Browning decided to use DesignSpark Mechanical in the development of this truly groundbreaking human-flight project, which has inevitably captured attention around the world,” said Cameron Ward, Senior VP of Innovation at RS. “Delivering the freedom to create quick revisions of a design is a key element in the development of any innovative hardware project. In common with a large number of professionals, students, enthusiasts and creators, Richard selected DesignSpark Mechanical because it is easy to use, offers powerful functionality, and enables the fast iteration of models from initial product concepts.”