Publication Date:
2019-06-28
Description:
An experimental investigation was performed to determine the low-speed aerodynamic performance characteristics of the trailed-rotor high-speed rotorcraft concept in its cruise configuration. A 15 percent scale semispan model was tested at speeds up to 180 knots in the NASA Ames 7-by 10-Foot Subsonic Wind Tunnel. The objective of this investigation was to determine specific aerodynamic performance characteristics to assist in evaluating the trailed rotor as a high-speed rotorcraft. The aerodynamic influence of the following model configuration changes were determined: ailerons, flaps, wing/pod angle, number of trailed blades, trailed-blade twist and azimuth, and wing/pod filet radius. The low-speed performance objectives for the concept were met and results indicated that the trailed-rotor model had no significant adverse aerodynamic characteristics. The optimum low-speed cruise configuration was determined. Results suggest the trailed-rotor concept has better low-speed cruise performance characteristics than the folding tiltrotor configuration.
Keywords:
AERODYNAMICS
Type:
AIAA PAPER 91-3230
Format:
text
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