On the calculation of the response of helicopters to control inputs

Abstract

In the past few years, a number of studies have provided accurate flight test data for the control response of single rotor helicopters over a wide frequency range. These measured responses have been compared to theory in a number of studies. Various differences between theory and experiment appear in all of these studies. Some of these differences are examined. A quantitative explanation of one prominent difference associated with the contribution of the lag degree of freedom is provided. Areas for further investigation are suggested. The discussion is directed towards articulated rotor helicopters. Flight test data from the UH-60, CH-53, and AH-64 helicopters, much of it taken for the express purpose of evaluating the control response, correlation with theory, and the use of parameter identification methods, is considered. Results for flight conditions near hover are emphasized