Manufacturing of a variable chord extension concept for helicopter rotor blades with a flexible EPDM skin

Abstract

In the SABRE project a new morphing concept, the so-called linear variable chord extension, has been devel-oped. Here, the blade chord length in the root area is changed with the help of an elastic skin to adapt it to the respective flight condition. This paper focuses on the manufacturing process of the technology demonstrator and give a detailed overview about the advantages and disadvantages of handling with EPDM material. This also addresses the challenge of reinforcing the EPDM with CFRP fibers.