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Optimization of rotor blades for combined structural, dynamic, and aerodynamic propertiesOptimal helicopter blade design with computer-based mathematical programming has received more and more attention in recent years. Most of the research has focused on optimum dynamic characteristics of rotor blades to reduce vehicle vibration. There is also work on optimization of aerodynamic performance and on composite structural design. This research has greatly increased our understanding of helicopter optimum design in each of these aspects. Helicopter design is an inherently multidisciplinary process involving strong interactions among various disciplines which can appropriately include aerodynamics; dynamics, both flight dynamics and structural dynamics; aeroelasticity: vibrations and stability; and even acoustics. Therefore, the helicopter design process must satisfy manifold requirements related to the aforementioned diverse disciplines. In our present work, we attempt to combine several of these important effects in a unified manner. First, we design a blade with optimum aerodynamic performance by proper layout of blade planform and spanwise twist. Second, the blade is designed to have natural frequencies that are placed away from integer multiples of the rotor speed for a good dynamic characteristics. Third, the structure is made as light as possible with sufficient rotational inertia to allow for autorotational landing, with safe stress margins and flight fatigue life at each cross-section, and with aeroelastical stability and low vibrations. Finally, a unified optimization refines the solution.
Document ID
19940004693
Acquisition Source
Legacy CDMS
Document Type
Conference Paper
Authors
He, Cheng-Jian
(Georgia Inst. of Tech. Atlanta, GA, United States)
Peters, David A.
(Georgia Inst. of Tech. Atlanta, GA, United States)
Date Acquired
August 16, 2013
Publication Date
January 1, 1990
Publication Information
Publication: NASA. Langley Research Center, The Third Air Force(NASA Symposium on Recent Advances in Multidisciplinary Analysis and Optimization
Subject Category
Aircraft Design, Testing And Performance
Accession Number
94N71448
Distribution Limits
Public
Copyright
Work of the US Gov. Public Use Permitted.
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