Prerequisites: IT upper division or graduate student, AEM 2301, AEM 4202, AEM 4303.

Review of basic aerodynamics, unique features of helicopters, momentum theory in axial flight and rotor flow states, momentum theory in non-axial flight, blade-element theory, vortex theory, helicopter equations of motion. Design project.

Textbook: Principles of Helicopter Aerodynamics, Leishman, Cambridge University Press, ISBN: 521523966

Summary

The course is aimed at seniors in aerospace engineering.

The goal of the course is to acquire an understanding of the fundamental principles of helicopter flight. The principal emphasis of the course is the derivation of models that can be used for basic performance analysis and flight control design. Throughout the lectures operational considerations are also made. The course starts with a short historical perspective that highlights the technological milestones and breakthroughs that have marked the early development of helicopter flight. Following the introduction, the semester is broken into two parts.

Part I focuses on the rotor aerodynamics. Two fundamental approaches of modeling are presented: momentum theory and blade element theory. These approaches consider the rotor as a system and key rotor characteristics are derived for different flight regimes. Rotor blade motion are then described and used to explain the forces and moments produced by the rotor in response to control inputs, aircraft motion and flight condition.

Part II of the lecture is focused on the vehicle dynamics and control. Simplified equations of motion are derived and used to introduce the linear stability derivatives model. This model is then applied to the analysis of mechanical and artificial control systems that are traditionally used on helicopters.

The grade is based on homework assignments, one mid-term exam and a project. The project gives the students the opportunity to focus on one of the two areas: design and performance or dynamics and control.