Mathematical models of helicopter flight dynamics

Abstract

The helicopter is specific in regards to other traffictransportation means, not just by its structure but also by its motion possibilities. The helicopter can move vertically, float in the air, turn in place, move forward and lateral, and can perform these movements in combinations. Because of this, helicopter dynamics modeling and testing is a very complex problem. In the present, problems in helicopter flight dynamics are mostly solved in aid of modern computers. Though inevitable in many complex problems, computers do not make it possible to understand the physical nature of the problem. Fortunately, many problems considering helicopters can be analyzed without overly complex calculus and usually it is possible to obtain simple formulas. Though not suitable for calculus, these formulas, when designing the helicopter, enable a satisfactory interpretation of required aerodynamic and dynamic phenomena. The helicopter belongs to the group of aerospace systems and its traditional modeling may be divided into: a) three-dimensional (space) geometry and kinematics, and b) rigid body dynamics and fluid dynamics through which it moves. Recently, following models are being developed: c) elasticity model in intersubordinance with fluid, d) propulsion system model, e) hydraulic model and other actuators that achieve aerodynamic control, f) pilot behavior model, g) navigation system model, and h) beacon problem model. The mathematical model described in this paper is related to a) and b).