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Synopsis
This book gives an account from first principles of the aerodynamics of helicopter flight, concentrating on the well-known Sikorsky configuration of single main rotor with tail rotor. Early chapters deal with the aerodynamics of the rotor in hover, vertical flight, forward flight and climb. Analysis of these motions is developed to the stage of obtaining the principal results for thrust, power and associated quantities but the lengthy mathematical treatment of some textbooks is avoided. Later chapters turn to the characteristics of the overall helicopter, its performance, stability and control, and the important field of aerodynamic research is discussed, with some reference also to aerodynamic design practice.
The Second Edition has been revised to illustrate more fully the various features of rotor aerodynamics and helicopter design. The helicopter is unique in its linking of the aerodynamic and mechanical features and a full appreciation of these air vehicles can only be achieved by understanding these interactions. Many of the extra figures illustrate the diversity in the design and operation of a helicopter and these differences are highlighted in the text.
Contents
Introduction; Rotor in vertical flight: momentum theory and wake analysis; Rotor in vertical flight: blade element theory; Rotor mechanisms for forward flight; Rotor aerodynamics in forward flight; Aerodynamic design; Performance; Trim, stability and control
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