T&E 4111 Helicopter Performance Flight Testing I
Course Description
An intensive overview of the analytical theory and procedures used to evaluate performance characteristics of helicopters. Emphasis is placed on subsonic aerodynamics, rotor blade aerodynamics, pitot static system performance, hover performance, vertical climb performance and level flight performance.
Anticipated Student Learning Objectives
Upon successful completion of this course of instruction, the student will have a basic understanding of performance flight test procedures, techniques, and data analysis. He/she will:
Be familiar with
1. The aerodynamics of a rotating blade.
2. Hover performance theory, requirements and flight-test techniques.
3. Vertical climb performance theory, requirements and flight-test techniques.
4. Level flight performance theory, requirements and flight-test techniques.
Understand
5. Dimensional analysis and be able to perform dimensional calculations.
6. Basic subsonic aerodynamics.
7. Pitot-static theory and be familiar with the Standard Atmosphere.
Sequence of Instruction
Performance Testing Overview
Dimensional Analysis
Subsonic Aerodynamics
Rotor Blade Aerodynamics
Pitot-Static Theory
Pitot-Static Calibration
Hover Performance Theory and Flight Test Techniques
Vertical Climb Performance Theory and Flight Test Techniques
Level Flight Theory and Flight Test Techniques
Tutorials
Aerodynamics
Pitot-Statics
Helicopter Performance
Exams
Aerodynamics
Pitot-Statics
Helicopter Performance
Texts and Reference Materials
“Helicopter Performance, Stability and Control,”
R. W. Prouty
NTPS Course Notes
Instructional Methodology
Lectures
Process of Evaluation
Written Examination