An Interdisciplinary Approach to Integrated Rotor/Body Mathematical Modeling

An interdisciplinary integrated rotor/body model has been developed to predict handling qualities, dynamic stability, performance and steady and transient loads for a single hingeless rotor aircraft throughout its entire flight envelope. The analysis method used may be applied to other rotor systems by minor modifications to the model. The modeling approach employed in creating this model includes a coordinated effort between specialists in all applicable disciplines to provide an extensive analytical representation of a complete rotary wing aircraft. The equations of motion are derived in Lagrangian form for 30 basic fully-coupled degrees of freedom with an absolute minimum of simplifying assumptions. The justification for the modeling approach taken is discussed in detail along with a description of the procedural ground rules required for successful implementation and use of this type model. These ground rules cover derivation of the model, program structuring, data management, checkout procedures, and documentation. The model itself is described and its current and potential applications are reviewed.