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Step 3 - basic drawing in 2D.
So the first two steps of the process (choosing what to design, and gathering information) have been completed: Cor has enough to get going with.
# 1, 2 and 3.
First of all, the original printed Three-View-Plan has to be converted for use on the computer - allowing vectors and coordinates to be used. (These make it possible to decide the exact position of a point anywhere in the plan - rather like latitude and longitude on a map, but with the third dimension added). Cor uses 3DMax and Autocad at this stage.
Step 4 - from 2D to 3 D.
Now one has to make the transition to a 3D image. I cannot explain how the computer does that, but it has got to be something like this: imagine we want to build a real model with just the three-view-plan - wood? RC? Here we go.
- use the half frames to make complete frames. Carefully mark the horizontal and vertical lines, and make a pin prick where these lines cross. Cut them out and mark them according to the Plan: A, B, C etc.
- find a piece of stiff metal wire or thin rod, just a bit longer than the fuselage in the Plan. Carefully mark the position of the frames on the rod, then slide frames in position, keeping them all nicely vertical. Use thin paper to cover the skeleton and you end up with an acceptable 3D model.
Even without actually doing this, you will now have good (and correct!) idea in your mind's eye of what the model is going to look like. This the principle behind the conversion of any part of the model from 2D to 3D. Wings, engine nacelles, cabin windows...
Basically, this is what the designer does on the computer.
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