Rigid/Compliant Helicopter Rotor

Abstract

Rotor structure ensures both effective aerodynamic support and efficient pitch changes. Four blades are shells with rigid inner I-beam arms integrated with rotor hub. Through each blade, control arm extends from pitch-control actuator in hub. Elastomeric bearings allow control arms to twist blades and thus change blade pitch without turning I-beam arms. Centrifugal force carried by tension strap. Leading and lagging movements of blades restrained by dampers. Ducts inside leading and trailing edges of blade shells carry air for partial cyclic aerodynamic control of lift and pitch. Structure permits more efficient pitch control with less weight. At same time, improves reliability through redundancy in supports and control mechanisms.