In this video, Patrick Smith, CEO and founder of Vision Miner, takes you step-by-step through the process of upgrading a dim tail light on a Gazelle turbine helicopter. This is more than just an upgrade—it’s a complete reverse engineering and 3D printing project using cutting-edge technology!
Equipment used:
https://visionminer.com/22idex
https://visionminer.com/scanners
https://visionminer.com/3dsoftware
https://www.visionminer.com/materials
The original light on the Gazelle helicopter was barely visible—a big safety concern, especially when flying in formation or challenging environments like canyons or over water. We wanted a brighter, more effective light, so we worked with the 3D scanners, CAD software, and high-temp materials we provide, like carbon fiber-filled PEEK (polyether ether ketone) -- to create the perfect solution.
What’s Covered in the Video:
The importance of visibility for aviation safety and performance.
Using a 3D scanner to capture accurate geometry from the helicopter tail section and the replacement light.
Reverse engineering the parts with software like Geomagic and ExModel, creating precise CAD files for 3D printing.
Prototyping with cost-effective materials like PLA before finalizing the adapter in CF PEEK, a UL94 V-0 rated material perfect for aerospace applications.
Printing the part on the Vision Miner 22IDEX V3, demonstrating the power of high-temperature, industrial-grade 3D printers.
Installation and testing of the new ultra-bright LED lights, making the helicopter more visible and safer to fly.
Vision Miner specializes in providing the tools and materials needed to tackle projects like these, including 3D scanners, reverse engineering software, and high-temperature 3D printers. If you’re curious about how this tech can work for you, reach out to us at www.visionminer.com. We’re here to help guide you through the process!
Why Carbon Fiber PEEK?
This high-performance material is flame-retardant, low off-gassing, and self-extinguishing, making it ideal for aerospace. It’s UL94 V-0 rated, meaning it meets the strict flame, smoke, and toxicity requirements for aviation. Patrick also discusses the benefits of prototyping in PLA before transitioning to expensive materials like CF PEEK.
Featured Tools & Materials:
FreeScan Combo+ 3D Scanner: Fast, precise scanning for capturing complex geometries.
Geomagic and ExModel Software: Industry-leading reverse engineering tools.
Vision Miner 22 IDEX v3 3D Printer: Industrial-grade high-temperature printer for advanced materials.
Carbon Fiber PEEK Filament [PEEK+CF10]:Aerospace-grade, flame-retardant material.
Key Takeaways:
1. 3D scanning simplifies the design process, eliminating manual measurements and ensuring precision.
2. Reverse engineering software helps create perfect, functional designs.
3. Industrial-grade 3D printers like the Vision Miner 22 IDEX v3 bring your ideas to life with advanced materials like CF PEEK.
4. High-performance materials ensure durability, safety, and reliability in demanding applications.
Helping You Find the Right 3D Printing and Reverse Engineering Tools for the Job
At Vision Miner, we’re not just about selling 3D printers, scanners, or materials—we’re about helping you solve problems and find the right tools for your specific needs. Whether you’re in aerospace, manufacturing, automotive, or just working on passion projects like upgrading a helicopter tail light, we’ve got you covered. Our team is dedicated to providing personalized guidance, live demos, sample parts, and expert advice to ensure you get the perfect solution for your application. 💡
What We Do:
Our goal is to make advanced technologies like 3D scanning, reverse engineering software, and high-temperature 3D printing accessible and practical. In this video, we’re showing you the entire workflow of upgrading a dim tail light on a Gazelle turbine helicopter, but the real story is how our tools and expertise can help you tackle your unique challenges.
If you’ve ever wondered:
Can I 3D scan this part for a perfect fit?
What software do I need for reverse engineering or design?
What materials are strong, safe, and reliable for high-performance applications?
What 3D printer is best for the job?
We’re here to help you figure it all out. Even if we don’t sell the exact product you need, we’ll provide honest, transparent advice to get you on the right path.
00:00 Introduction
00:30 Gazelle Helicopter Light Upgrade Project
01:15 Why Bright Lights Matter for Helicopter Safety
03:23 Scanning the Tail Light and Helicopter Section
05:45 Using Reverse Engineering Software (Geomagic, ExModel)
07:06 Creating a Prototype with PLA & CF Nylon, then CF PEEK
09:02 Final Part
09:32 Why use a UL94 V-0 FST rated material for aircraft parts?
10:35 Installing the part on the Helicopter
11:25 Test Flight at Dusk!
12:01 Project Conclusion, Final Thoughts, and Future Projects!
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