Combining Analysis and Test for Rotor Blade Development

A method is described for combining test results with analysis which enhances the predictive capability of the original analytical development. The technique was applied successfully to the Kaman SH-2F Composite Main Rotor Blade (CMRB) using simulated test data. Nonlinear regression equations for blade bending moments were developed as a function of blade ballast configuration using data obtained from Kaman's aeroelastic loads program (6F). Subsequently, these equations were modified using simulated test data obtained from the Rotorcraft Flight Simulation Computer Program (C81). The method can be applied to any rotor operational quality which can be described analytically and for which test data is available. The procedure unifies test and analysis yielding nonlinear regression equations with improved predictive capability compared to the original analysis.