The prediction of the noise generating mechanisms of an Aerospatiale 365N-1 Dauphin helicopter
The National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) is engaged in a joint program with the U.S. helicopter industry to develop a full system helicopter noise prediction computer program called ROTONET. The long term goal of the system is to achieve the ability to predict a helicopter noise signature from the basic input of helicopter geometry and operating condition data. It is being developed in phases, with each phase representing an increase in sophistication. NASA is also performing a series of flight tests to provide a validation data base for the ROTONET System. A joint NASA/U.S. Army test of an Aerospatiale 365N-1 Dauphin helicopter is an element of the series. A comprehensive data base of spectra, noise level time histories, and effective perceived noise levels, incorporating actual meteorological conditions and helicopter dynamics, was produced from this test. Comparisons are made of predictions of the individual source generating mechanisms from the ROTONET System with data from the Aerospatiale 365N-1 Dauphin flyover test. EPNL and noise level time history comparisons demonstrate the overall capabilities of the prediction system. Graphs of 1/3 octave band noise spectra of experimental data and prediction allow identification of the dominant noise prediction mechanisms for various frequencies, directivity angles, and operating conditions.