Cambridge– and Suffolk-based CAD and product design specialists Cambridge Design Technology (CDT) have just delivered their latest pro bono charitable project.

The project involved the creation of large, detailed, scale replica models of the new fleet aircraft to be used by Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust (EHAAT), the Augusta Westland AW169, twin-engine helicopter.

To create the design, a Cambridge Design Technology Computer Aided Design (CAD) engineer used a generic library version of an AW169, which was adapted in close detail and ready to be printed as a scale hollow model.

The CAD design was then 3D-scanned to allow a shelled, hollow CAD model to be replicated. After this, Cambridge Design Technology studied photographs of the EHAAT AW169 fleet to replicate and scale the fine details. A model was then 3D printed by Prototype Projects and painted in the EHAAT livery.

CDT had to engineer the model such that the individual parts could be readily masked and painted before assembly. The complex rotor hubs had to be designed to replicate the fine detail of the finished part yet be engineered to meet the minimum size for 3D printing.

Speaking as the model was presented to major EHAAT fundraisers in January, Stephanie Pisharody, Head of Philanthropy at EHAAT, said:

“Thank you so much, Jon! I was blown away when I saw the completed models with such incredible attention to detail and a beautiful finish.

These models have surpassed our expectations and will form an important part of our fundraising. We couldn’t have done this without your support.”

Jon Plumb, Founder and MD of Cambridge Design Technology said:

“We are super excited to be supporting EHAAT in the publicity of its emergency services. If our CAD service can contribute in any small way to promoting the fantastic work EHAAT does in saving lives, we can’t ask for more.”