Modeling and Simulation of the Apache Rotor System in CAMRAD II

The unique capabilities of CAMRAD II are used to develop two enhanced models of the AH-64 Apache rotor system. Based on existing sources of structural and dynamic blade properties, common characteristics of both models are first validated. Then, a single-loadpath, kinematic joint model, which includes the exact kinematics of the blade retention system, is developed and validated. A multiple-load-path model, which incorporates an accurate representation of the strap pack into the kinematic joint model, is also created. Pitch link loads are calculated and compared to flight test data.