Helicopter main rotor dynamic properties identification using full scale ground and flight tests measurements

Abstract

The one of the key challenges during new rotor blades design is the proper tuning of their dynamic properties. The specific design stages are defined as milestones and each particular stage needs specific methodology for a correct identification of the rotor dynamics. Every stage needs validated tools for a correct rotor characteristic frequencies prediction, which finally will be observed on the helicopter during normal helicopter operations. In this paper the review of estimation methodologies for the helicopter main rotor dynamic properties is presented with their application to new, improved W-3A Sokol helicopter MR blade set during design stage stand tests and during full scale helicopter on ground and in flight tests campaign