Dynamic Camber Control for Helicopter Rotor Blades

Techno-Sciences, Inc. (TSi), in collaboration with the University of Maryland and Bell Helicopter, proposes to develop and test a pneumatic, on-blade rotor vibration control system. This Phase II project will focus on producing an integrated trailing-edge flap (elevon) system consisting of pneumatic actuators, control electronics, air handling components, and actuator mechanisms for the Bell 407 helicopter. Laboratory and full-scale rotor blade prototypes with integrated flaps will be produced and systematically evaluated in Phase II. The full-scale flap system will be evaluated in a vacuum spin chamber, in a wind tunnel, and on a whirl tower to determine system performance under full-scale loading conditions.