SMART ROTOR RESEARCH IN THE UK

This paper provides an overview of a program of research on smart rotor technology undertaken in the UK by QinetiQ and including work at Glasgow University, City University, AgustaWestland Helicopters, and Advanced Composites Group. The motives for the research and potential benefits of smart rotors are described, with performance improvement being the primary aim of the work. Available aerodynamic devices are reviewed and the aerodynamic research programme described, including control of dynamic stall, the effect of Air Jet Vortex Generators, and a model developed for 2D aerofoil measurements. The candidate smart materials and other actuation devices are reviewed and a model rotor installation described. There is a discussion of the factors which impact on the practical implementation of a smart rotor device on operational helicopters and the possibilities of an electromagnetic actuator are described. The analysis of performance benefits are discussed with sample results indicating the ability to increase maximum forward speed.