This paper will look at a new design for automated rotorcraft stow. The system features both automatic blade fold (ABF) and automatic blade securing (ABS) functions, allowing the rotorcraft to become completely operationally autonomous. The ABF system moves the fold actuators off of the rotor and onto the vehicle fuselage. This reduces the weight, drag, and complexity of the rotor while increasing the reliability of the system. The off rotor system opens up the option of ABF to smaller rotorcraft and can easily be retrofitted to existing helicopters with little modification required, particularly to the rotor. The ABS system is a very simple system of mechanical arms that attach to the tail boom and use electromagnets to secure the blades from damage due to wind loads and other movement. These systems eliminate the need for bulky manual blade fold equipment, support cradles, and tie downs as well as the manpower required to operate them. Finally, existing rotorcraft were examined for the feasibility of retrofitting them with an automatic stow system. As a small autonomous Vertical Unmanned Air Vehicle (VUAV), the M8-QB Firescout is very well suited for this system. Other manned and unmanned rotorcraft were studied as well to examine the pros and cons of fitting them with automated stow systems.
Novel rotorcraft automated blade fold and secure design
Neuartige automatische Flügelklapp- und Sicherheitseinrichtung für Drehflügler
AHS Annual Forum, AHS International, 64 ; 1326-1333
2008
8 Seiten, 4 Quellen
Conference paper
English
Novel Rotorcraft Automated Blade Fold and Secure Design
British Library Conference Proceedings | 2008
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