Prediction of Helicopter Critical Flight Regimen by Continuation and Bifurcation Methods

Abstract

*Recent development in the field of numerical analysis of nonlinear differential equations created a class of computer algorithms known as continuation methods. These methods follow solution curves of nonlinear equations of motion represented by functions of a number of variables and parameters, respectively. This approach was successfully demonstrated for aircraft flight dynamics analysis. The aim of this paper is to present some results obtained in helicopter flight dynamics, when this methodology is applied. The equations of motion used in these investigations assumed a realistic “individual blade” helicopter model. Aerodynamic model includes also a region of higher angles of attach including deep stall phenomenon.