Advancing Blade Concept (ABC) Technology Demonstrator
Abstract
The XH-59A Advancing Blade Concept ABC demonstrator aircraft has completed five years of ground and flight tests in both the helicopter and auxiliary propulsion configurations. This testing was supported by wind tunnel tests, analytical developments, and flight simulation studies. Testing as a pure helicopter was accomplished in two phases. To verify control system adequacy, a low speed test program was flown (0 to 80 knots) from July to September 1975. The balance of the flight envelope was explored in progressive steps from November 1975 to March 1977. A power-limited maximum level flight speed of 156 KTAS was reached in this phase, 186 KTAS was achieved in a shallow dive and an extensive maneuver envelope was developed. Between April 1978 and May 1980 the aircraft was flown with two J-60 engines installed to provide auxiliary propulsion. A maximum airspeed of 238 KTAS in level flight was reached and a sizable maneuver envelope was developed through 220 KTAS. A total of 106 flight hours were accumulated in the pure helicopter and auxiliary propulsion modes. Test results to data have verified the capability of the Advancing Blade Concept to meet its predicted technical goals. No major surprises or unanticipated problems have been encountered.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 01, 1981
- Accession Number
- ADA100181
Entities
People
- A. J. Ruddell
- R. Mccutcheon
- W. Groth
Organizations
- United Technologies Corporation