Abstract

AbstractThe class of aircraft known as gyroplanes (or autogyros) helped to pave the way for the development of the helicopter. However, they have found no application in contemporary commercial or military aviation. It is in recreational or sport flying that the gyroplane has proved popular. Most if not all designs are however homebuilts, and as a consequence little analysis of any significance has been conducted on the flight mechanics of these aircraft. This Paper presents an analysis of the longitudinal stability of gyroplanes. Simple consideration of the basic forces and moments that might influence stability, in the context of elementary rotor behaviour, is used to assess the fundamental nature of gyroplane longitudinal stability. This is quantified by the application of a sophisticated generic rotorcraft mathematical model to the gyroplane problem. It is concluded that the basic configuration can be longitudinally stable with appropriate design, and that the rotorspeed degree of freedom must also be included when modelling the aircraft.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.