Helicopter tail rotor orthogonal blade vortex interaction

Coton, F.N., Marshall, J.S., Galbraith, R.A.M. and Green, R.B. (2004) Helicopter tail rotor orthogonal blade vortex interaction. Progress in Aerospace Sciences, 40(7), pp. 453-486. (doi: 10.1016/j.paerosci.2004.11.001)

Abstract

The aerodynamic operating environment of the helicopter is particularly complex and, to some extent, dominated by the vortices trailed from the main and tail rotors. These vortices not only determine the form of the induced flow field but also interact with each other and with elements of the physical structure of the flight vehicle. Such interactions can have implications in terms of structural vibration, noise generation and flight performance. In this paper, the interaction of main rotor vortices with the helicopter tail rotor is considered and, in particular, the limiting case of the orthogonal interaction. The significance of the topic is introduced by highlighting the operational issues for helicopters arising from tail rotor interactions. The basic phenomenon is then described before experimental studies of the interaction are presented. Progress in numerical modelling is then considered and, finally, the prospects for future research in the area are discussed.

• Item Type: Articles
• Additional Information: Final version as accepted by Progress in Aerospace Sciences supplied by the author
• Status: Published
• Refereed: Yes
• Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID: Coton, Professor Frank
• Authors: Coton, F.N., Marshall, J.S., Galbraith, R.A.M., and Green, R.B.
• Subjects: T Technology > TL Motor vehicles. Aeronautics. Astronautics
• College/School: College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Autonomous Systems and Connectivity
• Journal Name: Progress in Aerospace Sciences
• Publisher: Elsevier Ltd.
• ISSN: 0376-0421
• Copyright Holders: Copyright © 2004 Elsevier Ltd
• First Published: First published in Progress in Aerospace Sciences 40(7):453-486
• Publisher Policy: Reproduced in accordance with the copyright policy of the publisher.