Create a Bird-Like Ornithopter Mechanism

by ManpreetP in Teachers > University+

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Create a Bird-Like Ornithopter Mechanism

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Ornithopter Fusion 360 design
Mechanical Ornithopter simulation

Hi all, I am currently studying Coputer science and AI from Harrisburg University. An ornithopter is a flying machine that mimics the wing-flapping motion of birds to achieve flight. Inspired by nature, these machines have been a fascinating subject for engineers and hobbyists alike. In this project, we’ll design and simulate a bird-like ornithopter using Fusion 360. This guide will walk you through creating a 3D model, setting up motion for the wings, and rendering animations to showcase its lifelike flapping motion. This project is perfect for those passionate about aerodynamics, biomimicry, and mechanical design.



Motivation

The ornithopter combines the elegance of bird flight with the challenges of mechanical engineering. The project allows you to:

  1. Explore the principles of biomimicry and apply them to design.
  2. Enhance your CAD skills by creating intricate models with functional joints.
  3. Simulate motion and understand the mechanics behind flapping-wing flight.
  4. Develop an engaging project for personal, academic, or professional use.


Supplies

Fusion 360 in computer that can run and render simulations. All files added here.

Designing With Fusin360

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Start a New Project:

  1. Open Fusion 360 and create a new project for the ornithopter design.

Design the Body:

  1. Sketch the fuselage to resemble a bird's body, using ellipses or organic shapes.
  2. Use the Extrude tool to give the sketch a 3D shape.
  3. Add connection points for the wings, such as pivot holes or slots.
  4. Design PART 1,2,3,4 and the 2 spur gears as shown in the images. ( detailed information about measurements in the f3d parts.)

Design the Wings:

  1. Sketch the wing struts/bones to create the mechanism
  2. Include a pivot point at the root of the wing to connect it to the body.
  3. Mirror the wing design to create identical left and right wings.

You can use this mechanism to design your own bird your love, you can design any bird body and assemble this mechanism, and it will be fly like a dream!

You can power it with a rubber band or even small motors.

Due to time constraints, I will be adding the body to the mechanism soon!


THE PARTS ARE ADDED FOR YOU TO ASSEMBLE AND MAKE YOUR OWN ORNITHOPTER.

The Joints

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Add Joints:

  1. Use the Joint tool to attach the wings to the body with Revolute Joints for flapping motion.
  2. Ensure the joints allow free rotation within the desired range of motion.


Assembly

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Assemble the Components

  1. Import and Position:
  2. Import all the parts into the assembly workspace.
  3. Position the wings symmetrically on either side of the body.
  4. Test the Assembly:
  5. Move the wings manually to ensure they rotate freely without interference.


Simulation

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Mechanical Ornithopter simulation

Simulate the Flapping Motion

  1. Open the Animation Workspace:
  2. Switch to the Animation workspace in Fusion 360.
  3. Create Keyframes:
  4. Move the timeline to time = 0 and position the wings at their highest point.
  5. Add a keyframe for this position.
  6. Move the timeline forward (e.g., time = 0.5 seconds) and position the wings at their lowest point. Add another keyframe.
  7. Repeat this process to create a full flapping cycle.
  8. Adjust Timing:
  9. Ensure the wing movements are smooth and realistic by spacing keyframes appropriately.
  10. Test the motion playback and tweak as needed.