Virtual Reconstruction of a Biplane Model Aircraft Using Selected Materials and Current Technologies

In this work, we present an ongoing redesign of the IMAM Romeo 41 biplane fighter aircraft. This antique plane is no longer operating and the only available information for the reconstruction was the maintenance manual, a catalogue with most of the pieces and old pictures. We aim the recreation of this aircraft with the aid of SolidWorks software. The structural parts of the aircraft, such as fuselage structure and wings were designed by Reverse-Engineering, with continuous feedback from our re-designs to accomplish the dimensions and weight. One of the most challenging parts was the wings, since a complex design was found and 5 different NACA profiles had to be utilized. For the material selection, we have followed the current regulations and tried to preserve in the design the original materials. However, some of these materials are obsolete and an updating has been performed with the aid of Granta EduPack. The final aim is the usage of composite materials which are more suitable options in aeronautics.