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An investigation of the flight dynamic characteristics of gyroplanes by use of flight tests

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  03 February 2016

V. M. Spathopoulos*
Affiliation:
Athens, Greece

Abstract

An analysis is presented both of flight test and simulation data obtained from a gyroplane aircraft. This class of rotary-wing vehicle has found limited application in areas other than recreational flying, however the accident rate has been such that it has prompted the study of the configuration’s stability and control characteristics. It is concluded that the flight dynamic response of the gyroplane examined is dominated by a fast, non-stable mode, affecting all states and thus increasing pilot workload. Simulation results indicate that the position of the centre of gravity significantly influences the stability of this mode.

Type
Technical Note
Copyright
Copyright © Royal Aeronautical Society 2004 

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References

1. Spathopoulos, V.M. Validation of a rotorcraft mathematical model by use of gyroplane flight tests, Aeronaut J, January 2004, 108, (1079), pp 5158.Google Scholar
2. Anon, , British civil airworthiness requirements, Section T, Light gyroplane design requirements, Civil Aviation Authority Paper No. T 860 Issue 2, July 1993.Google Scholar
3. Houston, S.S., Thomson, D.G. and Coton, F. The aerodynamics of gyroplanes, CAA Contract No 7D/S/1125, Progress report phases 13, 1994–1997.Google Scholar