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Helicopter Aerodynamics
Helicopter Aerodynamics
A. History A. Controls
B. Configurations B. Stabilizer Controls
C. Types of Rotor Systems C. Vibrations
D. Forces Acting on the D. Power Systems
Rotor
E. Flight Conditions
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1483, DaVinci
– Developed “Helix”
– Kind of aerial screw
– Shows basic
understanding that the
atmosphere can support
weight but no provisions
for torque on fuselage
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters | Engr.
Author: Antonio
Harry | 2023
L. Whitehead 2
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1800s, Forlanini (Italy)
– Used steam engine
– Counter-rotating “butterfly” wings
– Could ascend (without pilot) to 40 feet for about
20 minutes
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1907, Cornu (France)
– First piloted helicopter
– Flew for few seconds
– Used internal combustion engine
– No controls but well balanced
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ 1909, Igor Sikorsky ◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
(Russia)
– Small counter-rotating
coaxial rotors
– First use of airfoil
shaped rotors
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters | Engr.
Author: Antonio
Harry | 2023
L. Whitehead 5
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1920s, Petroczy & Von
Karmon (Austria)
– Counter-rotating,
coaxial, airfoil rotors
– 3 40HP engines
– No controls, just made to
lift straight up
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 6
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1923, de Bothezat (U.S.)
– 4 rotors
– Complicated power
transmission system
– Low power
– Several flights of 1
minute @ 6 feet
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 7
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1923, de la Cierva (Spain)
– Developed Autogyro
– Solved some control
problems by allowing
rotors to Flap
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 8
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1936, Focke-Wulfe
(Germany)
– FW-61 established
endurance & speed
records
– Mostly flown by
Hannah Reich
– Flown inside stadium
for most of records
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 9
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
History ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ 1939, Sikorsky (U.S.)
– Developed VS-300
– Broke all FW-61
records
– Used 3-bladed main
rotor, vertical 2-
bladed tail rotor & 2
horizontal 2-bladed
outrigger rotors for
stability and control
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 10
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Configurations ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autogyros
– Developed by de la
Cierva
– Uses free-spinning main
rotor with airplane-like
engine/prop for forward
motion
– No power to main rotor,
spins from air action =
can’t hover or ascend
vertically
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 11
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Configurations ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Dual Rotor
– 2 counter rotating main
rotors
• No tail rotor needed
• May be separate or
coaxial
– Used extensively
through history, today
few (Boeing, Kaman)
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 12
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Configurations ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Single Rotor
– Most used design
– 1 main rotor for lift and
control
– Tail rotor for anti-torque
• FAA calls it “Auxiliary
Rotor”
• More precisely known
as “Anti-torque Rotor”
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 13
◼ History
◼ Configurations
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
1952 ◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Single Rotor Function: transport
Crew: 2
Engines: 1 * G.E. J35
Rotor Span: 130ft Length:
Height: 30ft Disc Area:
Empty Weight: Max.Weight:
46000lb
Speed: Ceiling: Range: 65km
Load: 25000lbs
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Configurations ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Tilt Rotor
– Bell V-22
– Engines and main rotors
(“PropRotors”) mounted
on wingtips
• Rotate so rotor is
horizontal (on top) to
takeoff and land like
helicopter
• Rotate so rotor is
vertical to act like
prop for high speed
12/09/09 15
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ General ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 16
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
– Some also:
• Flap or Teeter
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 17
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ General ◼ Power Systems
– Some also:
• Lead/Lag (Hunt
or Drag)
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 18
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Semi-Rigid Rotor ◼ Power Systems
– 2-bladed
– Blades Feather and
entire rotor Teeters
– No Hunting action
allowed
– Very popular in early
Bell designs (and
others)
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 19
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Semi-Rigid
– Bell 206
20
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Fully Articulated
– Is most complicated but smoothest in flight
– Problem: Ground Resonance potential
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 22
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors
◼ Controls
◼ Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Fully Articulated
– Hughes 500
(McDonnell-
Douglas,
Boeing)
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters Harry
| Engr. L. Whitehead
Antonio | 2023 23
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors
◼ Controls
◼ Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Fully
Articulated
– Sikorsky S58
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 24
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Fully
Articulated
– AStar 350
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 25
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Types of Rotors ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Rigid
– 2 or more blades
– Blades Feather but all other forces absorbed by
bending of the blades
– Strongest and most maneuverable but needs
composites to withstand fatigue
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 26
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023 27
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
12/09/09 28
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 29
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
– Compensated for by
Tail Rotor thrust
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 30
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
– Compensated for by
Tail Rotor thrust or
counter-rotating M/Rs
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 31
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 32
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 36
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 37
◼ History
◼ Ground Effect ◼ Configurations
Helicopters
– Out of Ground Effect (OGE)
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Rotation
Downwash
Angle of Attack
Relative Wind
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 38
◼ History
◼ Ground Effect ◼ Configurations
Helicopters
– In Ground Effect (IGE)
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Rotation
Downwash
Angle of Attack
Relative Wind
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 39
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
– Same as
airplane:
• Lift up
• Weight
(Gravity) down
• Thrust forward
and up
• Drag back and
down
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 40
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
– In hover:
• Lift and Thrust
both act up
• Weight and
Drag act down
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 41
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
– Forward Flight:
• Thrust vector
tilted in
desired
direction =
overall loss of
upward lift =
need more
power applied
• Similar to
airplane in turn
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 42
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Dissymmetry of Lift ◼ Power Systems
– At a hover with no
wind the rotor
blades are all
traveling at the
same speed in
relation to the air
around them
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 43
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Dissymmetry of Lift ◼ Power Systems
100 mph
– Any relative air
motion (wind or
flight) = blade
going into wind
(Advancing
Blade) travels
faster than
Retreating Blade
• Think in terms
of Airspeed
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 44
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Dissymmetry of Lift ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Syst ems
◼ Forces Acting on th e Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions
◼ Controls
◼ Stabilizer Control s
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Dissymmetry of Lift
– Compensated for by allowing the blades to Flap or the rotor
to Teeter
• Advancing blade Flaps (Teeters) up = decrease in angle
of attack due to upward vector of Relative Wind
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 46
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Dissymmetry of Lift
– Compensated for by allowing the blades to Flap or
the rotor to Teeter
• Retreating blade Flaps (Teeters) down =
increase in angle of attack due to Relative Wind
Author:
Aerodynamics for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 47
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Coriolis Effect ◼ Power Systems
– Caused by
Flapping or
Teetering up
– Blade flaps up =
Center of Mass
moves closer to
axis of rotation =
RPM increases
Author:
Aerodynamics for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 48
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Coriolis Effect ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Coriolis Effect ◼ Power Systems
– Creates force to
accelerate the
blade (Hunting
action)
– Fully Articulated
head allows limited
Hunting action
• Uses hydraulic
or composite
dampers to
minimize
movement
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 50
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Coriolis Effect ◼ Power Systems
– Semi-Rigid usually
uses “UnderSlung
Rotor Head”
• Teetering Axis
is above
Feathering Axis
(“Delta Hinge”
arrangement) =
as teeters it
also swings to
high side
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 51
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Coriolis Effect ◼ Power Systems
– Semi-Rigid usually
uses “UnderSlung
Rotor Head”
• Center of Mass
of the Rotor
then stays
basically in line
with driveshaft/
mast
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 52
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Translational Lift ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 53
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Translational Lift
– At hover and below 15 knots, the ground is forcing
the rotor downwash outward and creating some
turbulence around rotor blades
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 54
◼ His tory
◼ Configurations
Heli copters ◼
◼
Ty
pes of Rotor Systems
For ces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Fli
ght Conditions
Flight Conditions
◼ Co
ntrols
◼ Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Translational Lift
– At hover and below 15 knots, the ground is forcing
the rotor downwash outward and creating some
turbulence around rotor blades
–Above 15 kts, the blades “bite” into undisturbed
air = more efficient
12/09/09 = less
Author: Harry L.power
Whiteheadneeded 55
◼ History
◼ Configurations
◼
Helicopters ◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight C onditions
Flight Conditions
◼
Controls
◼ Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Translational Lift
– Above about 50 knots, drag starts to increase
greatly and we need more power to further
accelerate
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 56
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Transverse Flow ◼ Power Systems
Effect
– At slow airspeeds
(less than 20 kts.) =
air through rear of
rotor is accelerated
downward longer than
air at front = decrease
in angle of attack in
rear
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 57
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Transverse Flow ◼ Power Systems
Effect
– Effect felt 90o later =
drift to right
– Pilot must
compensate with
some left Cyclic to
keep going in a
straight line
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 58
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Transverse Flow ◼ Power Systems
Effect
– As airspeed increases
= entire rotor has
basically undisturbed
airflow = no
Transverse Flow
Effect is felt
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 59
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autorotations
– Flight with no engine power applied to the main
rotors
– Air is normally drawn down through rotors but if
have engine failure = aircraft drops and wind goes
up through rotors = keeps them rotating at near
normal RPM
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 60
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autorotations
– When engine fails, pilot lowers Collective stick
to bottom = sets in minimal angle on all blades
and adjusts Cyclic to certain forward airspeed
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 61
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 63
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 65
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autorotations
– At some forward airspeed these forces combine to
stabilize the RPM (achieve equilibrium)
– RPM means Inertia = energy available to use when
near the ground
• This Autorotation RPM is critical rigging
12/09/09
adjustment Author: Harry L. Whitehead 67
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autorotations
– At about 50 feet above the ground, the pilot pulls
back on the Cyclic to flare the aircraft (pulls the
nose up some = reduced airspeed)
• = momentary increase in airflow and higher RPM
(= more inertia)
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 68
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Autorotations
– At about 10 feet above the ground, the pilot pulls
up on the Collective and starts to use that energy
in the rotor to cushion the landing
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 69
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Autorotations ◼ Power Systems
– Also leads
manufacturers to
publish “Height-
Velocity Diagram” in
Flight Manual
– Also known as the
“Dead Man’s Curve”
– If fly in shaded area
combinations of
Height (Altitude) and
Velocity = can’t
successfully
Autorotate
12/09/09 70
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Retreating Blade Stall ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 71
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Retreating Blade Stall ◼ Power Systems
– Generally occurs at
the 7 – 9 o’clock
position (looking
down on the rotor =
left rear of rotor) =
vibrations + nose
pitches up
• gyroscopic
precession = loss
of lift in rear of
rotor
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 72
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Retreating Blade Stall ◼ Power Systems
– Nose pitch up =
excessive angle of
attack in front (stall) =
loss of lift on left and
roll to left
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 73
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vortex Ring State ◼ Power Systems
(Settling With
Power)
– If descending at 300
fpm or more + less
than 10 mph forward
airspeed + 20 to
100% power applied
= can descend
inside rotor
downwash
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 74
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vortex Ring State ◼ Power Systems
(Settling With Power)
– Blades produce tip
vortices (like any
airfoil) + upward
flow of air in
middle of rotor
(from descent) =
Vortex across
entire rotor = loss
of lift and
increased descent
rate
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 75
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vortex Ring State ◼ Power Systems
(Settling With Power)
– Increasing power
to control descent
rate = increases
problem by
increasing the
amount of vortex
created
– Must accelerate
out of it or
descend below it
(if there’s enough
altitude)
76
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vortex ◼ Power Systems
Ring State
(Settling
With
Power)
77
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Flight Conditions ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Ground ◼ Power Systems
Resonance
http://www.chinook-
helicopter.com/Fundamentals_of_Flight/Ground_Resonance
/Ground_Resonance.html
12/09/09
Author: Harry L. Whitehead 78
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Flight Controls ◼ Power Systems
– 3 basic controls:
Cyclic, Collective,
Pedals
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 80
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Flight Controls ◼ Power Systems
– 3 basic controls:
Cyclic, Collective,
Pedals
– Cyclic:
• Controls Pitch and
Roll
• Tilts rotor disk in
desired direction of
movement
• Is primary airspeed
and flight path
control (pitch & roll)
81
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Axes of Flight
– Cyclic:
• Uses Swashplate to do job
– Is device with rotating component and
stationary component
– Connected by double-row ball bearing
– Lower (stationary) part connected to Cyclic
stick via push-pull tubes and/or hydraulics
– Upper (rotating) part connected to main
12/09/09 blades an Aud
thorro
: tHa
artre
y Ls. W
whiittehheatdhem 82
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Axes of Flight
– Cyclic:
• Uses Swashplate to do job
– Pilot pushes Cyclic stick in direction of desired
movement
– Swashplate is tilted to change M/R blade pitch a
different amount depending on where it is in
rotation
» The pitch changes cyclically as it rotates
» Direction of tilt is designed to take Gyroscopic
Precession into account
» May or may not tilt same as rotor disk action
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
– Cyclic:
Lateral
• Example tubes
system:
Huey (Bell
UH-1)
Fore &
Aft tubes
12/09/09
Author: Harry L. Whitehead 84
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Axes of Flight
– Collective:
• Changes the pitch of all blades the same
amount at the same time (collectively)
• Controls the overall lift generated by the rotors
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 85
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Axes of Flight
– Collective:
• Uses the Swashplate to do the job by raising
or lowering it to change the pitch on all blades
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 86
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Axes of Flight
– Collective:
• Collective stick also has engine throttle(s)
– Motorcycle style rotating throttle except must
rotate away from you to increase
– Turbines usually governed so open throttle
12/09/09 wide openAautnhodr: lHeartrygLo. Wvheiterhneo
adr keep RPM steady87
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
– Collective:
• Example
system:
Hughes
(Schweizer)
269
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
– Pedals:
• Control Yaw by controlling the thrust of the Tail
Rotor (on single-rotor helicopters) and driven by
main transmission so will still work if engine quits
– Dual rotors = differential cyclic control by
pedals
– Coaxial rotors = rudder in rotor downwash
• Push left pedal to yaw to the left, right pedal to
yaw to the right
– Left pedal increases T/R thrust
• Needed especially during slow and high power
12/09/09 conditions (AI.ueth.ort: aHkareryoL.ffWa
hitn
ehd landing)
ead 89
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 90
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 91
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
12/09/09
Aerodynamics Author:
for Helicopters HarryAntonio
| Engr. L. Whitehead
| 2023 92
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Axes of Flight ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Miscellaneous
– Stabilizer surfaces
• Fixed Horizontal
– Creates download on tail to keep fuselage
more level during high speed flight
• Synchronized Elevator
– Connected to Cyclic
– Changes pitch to change tail down load for
various flight speeds
• Fixed Vertical
12/09/09
– For directional stability 94
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Miscellaneous
– Hydraulics
• For larger or heavier M/R systems
• Mostly use Irreversible type systems to overcome
flight loads and dampen vibrations in sticks
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehead 95
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Miscellaneous
– Example system:
Author: Harry L. Whitehead 96
12/09/09
• Bell 206
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Stabilizer Controls ◼ Power Systems
– Are inherently
unstable
– As rotor lift/thrust
vector tilts away from
vertical = creates
vector to pull away
from center
– = negative stability
97
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
• Compensations
• Bell Stabilizer Bar
–Bar below M/R @ 90o to blade span
–Acts like gyroscope and uses Rigidity in Space
characteristic to try and keep rotor and aircraft in one
attitude
–Worked too well so
12/09/09 needs
Author: Harry L.hydraulic
Whitehead damper to limit it’s
98
effectiveness and allow reasonable maneuverability
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Compensations
– Offset Flapping Hinge
• On fully-articulated rotor heads and on some tail
rotors
• Hinge moved a distance from rotor’s rotation axis
12/09/09 = acts like leAuvtheorr: tHoarrpy rLovhiidtee
.W heardestoring force 99
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Compensations
• Stabilization Augmentation System (SAS)
– Like simple autopilot
– One- or two-axis
– Only to aid stability, not true autopilot
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehead 100
Aerodynamics for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 101
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
– Types
• Low Frequency
– Feel as “beat” in structure and may be able to
almost count the beats
– Comes from Main Rotor
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 102
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
– Types
• Low Frequency
–Vertical vibe
»Up & down motion
»Caused by blades
being Out-of-Track
L. Whitehead 103
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
– Types
• Low Frequency
–Lateral vibe
»Side-to-side motion
»Comes from blades
being out of balance
or spaced unequally
L. Whitehead 104
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
– Types
• High Frequency
– Felt as “buzz” in structure
– Comes from cooling fan, engine and/or
accessories, gearboxes, or (most commonly)
Tail Rotor
– May only notice if some part of body goes to
sleep
» Feet = Tail Rotor (through pedals)
» Butt = others
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 105
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of vibes
• Feel
– Adjust until feels OK (at minimum level)
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 106
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of vibes
• Electronic
– Use accelerometers to measure rate and
strength accurately
– Use Strobe light or “Clock” to locate
– Use above as coordinates on chart to
determine exactly where and how much
weight to add or remove
– Can use to troubleshoot (narrow down vibe
rate and look at those components operating
at that rate)
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 107
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Correction of vibes (M/R & T/R)
• If out of balance condition
» M/R also may require Blade Sweep to be
adjusted (for chordwise balance)
» = stretch string between blades and adjust
until blades are exactly 180o apart (adjust
by “sweeping” blades forward or aft as
12/09/09 neceAsusthaorr: yH)arry L. Whitehead 109
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Correction of vibes (M/R & T/R)
• If out of balance condition
– Dynamic balancing done during operations on
ground and in air
– Uses Electronic gear to measure rate and
strength and charts to show adjustments
• Some M/Rs don’t need dynamic after static but
12/09/09 all T/Rs do Author: Harry L. Whitehead 110
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of
vibes
• Example chart:
– T/R balance
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of
vibes
• Example chart:
– T/R balance
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of
vibes
• Example chart:
– M/R balance
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Measurement of
vibes
• Example chart:
– M/R balance
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 116
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 117
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
Vibrations
– Flag Tracking
Flag Tracking
d 119
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehea
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
◼ Vibrations
– Correction of vibes (M/R & T/R)
• If out of Track condition
– Ground & Flight
» Use spotlight or strobe
» Spotlight uses colored reflectors attached to blade
» Light shows colored streaks and can see “altitude”
12/09/09 difference betAw
uthe
oer: n
Hatrrh
yeL.m
Whitehead 121
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations ◼
◼
Vibrations
Power Systems
– Correction of vibes (M/R & T/R)
• If out of Track condition
– Ground & Flight
» Strobe is keyed by pickup on swashplate
» Flashes once for each blade
» Has reflectors on each blade with different
angled “Target” line
» Flashes ‘stop’ targets at one location and
can easily see difference and which blade
to adjust
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 122
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Vibrations ◼ Power Systems
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 123
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– See all types: Horizontal
and Vertically mounted
Opposed engines & some
Radials
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 124
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– Verticals and Radials
usually are Dry-sump with
M/R Transmission
(GearBox) mounted on top
12/09a nd using same Aouitlhosr:uHpaprrylyL.
/09 125
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating Bell 47
– Verticals and Radials
usually are Dry-sump with
M/R Transmission
(GearBox) mounted on top
and using same oil supply
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio
Whitehea| 2023
d 126
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– Horizontals usually use
some form of Belt Drive
» Multiple V-belts or one
wide “timing” belt
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehead 127
Aerodynamics for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– None have propeller for
cooling air blast and “fly
wheel” for starting
– All use some form of Cooling
Fan driven by engine to blow
air across cylinders
– All are generally hard to start
(no fly wheel to help process
keep going) 128
Aerodynamics for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating Instruments
– Since M/R is essentially a Variable-pitch
Propeller = all use both Tachometer (RPM)
and Manifold Pressure gauges for power
measurement
– Engines must be operated at relatively
constant RPM (to allow enough Lift & Thrust)
and usually very near the manufacturer’s
Overspeed limit
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 129
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Components ◼ Power Systems
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– Usually uses Correlated Throttle and
Collective
» Pull up on collective = more blade pitch =
more lift/thrust generated = more drag
» Need more engine power to keep RPM
constant
» Correlation increases throttle automatically
as Collective is pulled up (may not do
12/09/09 entire job, thoAuutg
hoh
r:)Harry L. Whitehead 130
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Bell 47
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Con trols
◼ Vibrations
– Powerplants
• Reciprocating
– Usually uses Correlated Throttle and
Collective
» Pull up on collective = more blade pitch =
more lift/thrust generated = more drag
» Need more engine power to keep RPM
constant
» Correlation increases throttle automatically
as Collective is pulled up (may not do
12/09/09 entire job, thoAuutg
hoh
r:)Harry L. Whitehead 131
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Components ◼ Power Systems
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are ideal powerplants as operate most efficiently at
constant RPM and have very high power to weight
ratio
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehead 132
Aerodynamics for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Components ◼ Power Systems
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» All output power is converted to rotating shaft
power (Torque)
» Torque sent to Transmission to drive Main & Tail
Rotors and other necessary components
12/09/09 Author: Harry L. Whitehead 133
Aerodynamics for Helicopters | Engr. Antonio | 2023
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» Two basic types: Direct Shaft & Free
Turbine
» Direct Shaft has PTO shaft connected to
all Compressor and Turbine section
stages
» Are very hard to start as must turn all
engine + Main and Tail rotors
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 134
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» Two basic types: Direct Shaft & Free
Turbine
» Free Turbine has some Turbine stages
which only supply PTO power
» Easier to start as rotors not mechanically
connected to main part of engine
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 135
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems◼
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» Measure power output with Tachometers,
Torquemeters, and Turbine Temperature
gauges
» Tachs measure RPM in % (due to high
actual RPM)
» Free Turbine versions need to measure
both main engine (N1) and Power Turbine
12/09/09 (N2) aAunthdor:uHsau
rryaLl.ly
Whh
itea
hevae
d separate gauges136
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems
◼
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» Torquemeters measure power being
absorbed by M/Rs
» Similar to MAP gauge on recips
» Measures in % or in Pounds of Torque
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Powerplants
• Turbines
– Are TurboShaft engines
» Turbine Temps very important as are
directly proportional to how hard the
engine’s working and critical during the
start cycle
» May be TIT, ITT, TOT, or EGT system
(manufacturer’s choice)
» CAN NOT exceed max. limit or will
12/09/09 damaAugtheor:THuarrrb
y Lin
.Wehitseheecadtion components 138
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Transmissions
• For speed and/or directional change of
rotating shaft(s)
• May be Rack & Pinion or Planetary Gear
systems
• Uses engine oil or has own supply
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 139
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters ◼
◼
◼
Types of Rotor Systems
Forces Acting on the Rotor
Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Transmissions
• For speed and/or
directional change of
rotating shaft(s)
• May be Rack & Pinion
or Planetary Gear
systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other Compo nenPtoswer Systems ◼
– Clutch
• USED TO RELIEVE THE ENGINE LOAD
DURING STARTING
• May be Manual, Electrical, or Centrifugal
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 143
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
Components
– Clutch
• Centrifugal uses hinged
Shoes pushed against a
Drum by Centrifugal
Force
– Shoes on arms
attached to engine
crankshaft
– Drum attached to
Transmission 144
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Freewheeling Unit
• FOR AUTOROTATION
PURPOSES
• Disconnects M/R from engine
if engine turns slower than M/
R
• Usually either Roller or Sprag
style
145
◼ History
◼ Configurations
Helicopters
◼ Types of Rotor Systems
◼ Forces Acting on the Rotor
◼ Flight Conditions
Controls ◼
◼
Controls
Stabilizer Controls
◼ Vibrations
◼ Power Systems & Other ◼ Power Systems
Components
– Freewheeling Unit
• FOR AUTOROTATION
PURPOSES
• Disconnects M/R from engine
if engine turns slower than M/
R
• Usually either Roller or Sprag
style
146
Aerodynamics
12/09/09 for Helicopters
Author:| Engr.
Harry L.Antonio | 2023
Whitehead 147