A Simulation Investigation of the Effects of Engine- and Thrust-Response Characteristics on Helicopter Handling Qualities,
Abstract
A program is being conducted to study the effects of engine response, rotor inertia, rpm control, excess power, and vertical damping on specific maneuvers included in nap-of-the-Earth (NOE) operations. Specifically, this study concentrates on the helicopter configuration with an rpm-governed gas-turbine engine and expands on handling qualities-criteria data by focusing on aspects peculiar to rotary-wing and NOE operations. This paper summarizes results of three moving-based piloted simulation studies and explores the frequency characteristics of helicopter thrust response which set it apart from other VTOL types. Power-system response is affected by both the engine governor response and the level of rotor inertia. However, results indicate that, with unlimited power, variations in engine response can have a significant effect on pilot rating, whereas changes in rotor inertia, in general, do not. Results also show that any pilot interaction required to maintain proper rpm control can significantly degrade handling qualities. Data for variations in vertical damping and collective sensitivity are compared with existing handling-qualities specifications, MIL-F-83300 and AGARD 577, and show a need for higher minimums for both damping and sensitivity for the bob-up task.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 15, 1983
- Accession Number
- ADA136714
Entities
People
- C. L. Blanken
- L. D. Corliss