So, when the voice over the phone asks, "Would you be interested in designing a helicopter?" you first think it's a friend pulling your leg. But when reality sinks in, you buckle up for an incredible adventure.

Diving headfirst into the world of aerodynamics and gyrocopters, an exhilarating hybrid of helicopters and airplanes, was a truly remarkable experience. Unlike helicopters, gyrocopters rely on autorotation, meaning the main rotor is powered by the airflow created when the gyrocopter moves, courtesy of additional powered rotors. This whole new dynamic presented a compelling challenge, inviting me to push my design capabilities to the limit.

Despite my enthusiasm, I was not left to draw up the designs alone, considering my limited knowledge in constructing such machines. I was given a basic outline of the structure with the appropriate angles and distances between the main components, engines, and tail. 

My initial vision involved a central engine powering two exterior rotors, space for four passengers, cargo space, and a retractable landing gear. Drawing from the knowledge I had amassed, I began sketching the fusioncopter's successive versions. A gyrocopter, unlike a helicopter, doesn't tilt during flight, which adds an element of dynamism. I decided to reflect this in the machine's design, resulting in several versions featuring various tilt angles and nose configurations.

Next, I conducted particle flow simulations as complex as the SOLIDWORKS tools allowed. Based on these findings, I modified the fuselage design to minimize airflow disturbances trailing the machine. This shape was then handed over to an experienced aerodynamicist who fine-tuned my results and enabled more precise changes. The first iteration also featured a retractable landing gear, requiring me to design the folding system, much like the side fairings.

What began as an incredulous question over the phone spiraled into an unprecedented project, propelling my skills to new heights and stretching my understanding of aerodynamics. I can't help but beam with pride and satisfaction when I look at the Fusioncopter, a testament to the thrilling journey from concept to reality. Designing a flying machine – indeed, there is hardly anything more exhilarating! Below you can see a flight video of the first functional prototype.

After the painstaking design phase, my project was handed over to the construction team, who breathed life into the gyrocopter by building its supportive structure. As is often the case in the design world, projects evolve, and this gyrocopter was no exception. Ultimately, the design was scaled up and adapted to accommodate six passengers. Believe me when I say, it has grown into a truly magnificent flying machine. It's a sight to behold and a testament to the power of collaborative ingenuity, persistence, and a passion for pushing the boundaries of what is possible in design. This journey reinforced to me that no project is too ambitious if approached with an open mind.