Helicopter Rotor Disk and Blade Element Comparison

Modem computer technology offers the capability to perform real-time processing of mathematical models far more sophisticated than those currently being utilized in training applications. The capability to cost effectively implement Blade Element rotor models in real time using multiprocessor architectures and RISC technology processors has been demonstrated. In order to effectively utilize this new computational capability it is necessary to assess the trade-offs between increased fidelity and the cost associated with added sophistication in rotorcraft mathematical modeling. The objective of this study is to perform off-line comparisons of Blade Element and Rotor Map models under otherwise identical conditions to assess the significance of this increased sophistication to simulation fidelity and to weigh it against the additional cost associated with the increased computational requirements. The comparison was conducted using the FLIGHTLAB system to provide a modular approach to replacing only the rotor model in a configured simulation. A Blade Element model was compared with an equivalent Rotor Map model for the Main Rotor of a UH-60 Black Hawk. Comparisons of trim, static stability, transient response and frequency response were used to evaluate the models.