Advanced Rotorcraft Transmission Program
Abstract
This ART program is a joint Army/NASA program to develop and demonstrate lightweight, quiet, durable drivetrain systems for next generation rotorcraft. ART addresses the drivetrain requirements of two distinct next generation aircraft classes: (1) Future air attack vehicle, a 10,000 to 20,000 lb aircraft capable of undertaking tactical support and air-to-air missions; (2) Advanced cargo aircraft, a 60,000 to 80,000 lb aircraft capable of heavy lift field support operations. Both tiltrotor and more conventional helicopter configurations are included in the ART program. Specific objectives include: reduction of drivetrain weight by 25% compared to baseline state-of-the-art drive systems configured and sized for the next generation aircraft; reduction of noise level at the transmission source by 10dB relative to a suitably sized and configured baseline; and attainment of at least a 5000 hr mean-time-between- removal. The technical approach for achieving ART goals includes application of the latest available component, material, and lubrication technology to advanced concept drivetrains that use new ideas in gear configuration, transmission layout, and airframe/drivetrain integration. To date, candidate drivetrain systems have been carried to a conceptual design stage, and tradeoff studies have resulted in selection of an ART transmission configuration for each of the four contractors. The final section was based on comparative weight, noise, and reliability studies. A description of each of the selected ART designs is included in this paper.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 21, 1990
- Accession Number
- ADA235915
Entities
People
- Robert C. Bill
Organizations
- National Aeronautics and Space Administration