This paper analyses a new approach utilising potential functions to autonomously control constrained attitude slew manoeuvres using gas jet thrusters. The method hinges on defining a potential function from the geometric configuration of the satellite's current attitude, the final target attitude and any pointing constraint which may be present. It will be demonstrated that complex path shaping and planning can be achieved using little computational effort. The method is mathematically validated using Lyapunov's theorem, and so can be considered for safety critical applications.

The performance and robustness of a classical multivariable controller and one H∞ compensator are assessed on a model rotor rig. Both control schemes are subjected to sinusoidal and step input tests in the pitch and roll axes under a range of operating conditions and configurations. A brief description of the characteristics of the rotor mathematical model is provided, followed by a summary of the design assessment criteria. Following a description of the two control law design techniques, the performance of each controller is verified on the mathematical model prior to evaluation on the rotor rig. In absolute terms, there is a poor correlation between the simulated and experimental values of the design assessment criteria for both controllers. However, in relative terms, the H∞ control law achieves higher levels of damping and lower cross-couplings than the classical scheme although the measured improvements are not as substantial as predicted. In experimental frequency response tests at increasing advance ratios and various rotorspeeds, the H∞ scheme again consistently achieves the lowest levels of cross-coupling. In summary, the results show that although there are practical performance and robustness benefits to be gained by employing more complex control algorithms, model uncertainty will substantially reduce the predicted benefits.

Bird strike is a major consideration when designing fans for civil aero engines. Current methods rely on impact tests and structural optimisation but it is highly desirable to have predictive numerical models to assess the aerodynamic and aeroelastic stability of bird-damaged fan assemblies. A detailed feasibility study towards such a prediction capability, consisting of a CFD solver coupled to a finite element representation of the structure, is reported in this paper. A whole-assembly model was used for both the fluid and the structural domains, an approach necessitated by the loss of cyclic symmetry due to one or more blades undergoing plastic deformation under the effect of the bird impact. It was assumed that two consecutive blades had suffered unequal amount of bird damage, the so-called heavy and medium-damaged blades.

Surface pressure measurements were obtained during a three-dimensional vortex interaction with a NACA 0015 aerofoil. The upper and lower surfaces of the blade experienced different aerodynamic loads which appear to be controlled by the impact of the vortex axial core flow on the blade surface. On the upper surface of the blade, where the vortex core flow was away from the aerofoil, the interaction was characterised by the generation of a suction peak. On the lower surface, where the axial component was towards the blade, a pressure pulse developed and seemed to be influenced by the vortex approach angle. These features resulted in rapid changes in normal force and quarter chord pitching moment during the interaction. This impulsive loading of the blade may provide some explanation for sound generation and control degradation problems associated with the tail rotor of helicopters.

Fatigue usage monitoring systems (Fums) offer considerable potential for life extension of aircraft parts. In this work the life extension benefits of Fums is assessed by adopting a probabilistic approach. The roles of damage law type and of service usage variability is explored. It is shown by analysis that in the absence of cycle to cycle load interaction effects, load sequence has no effect on eventual life in either linear or non linear damage laws, provided that the function describing the rate of damage growth has separable variables of stress and damage. This condition includes fracture mechanics crack growth laws. Monte Carlo simulations have been conducted of fatigue life distributions in helicopter rotor components. Variability in manoeuvre damage, when summed over a large number of manoeuvres, has little effect on scatter in overall lives. A fixed manoeuvre usage spectrum will result in very small scatter in lives, whereas keeping the usage constant for each helicopter and allowing it to vary between helicopters, produces a significantly increased variability. The influence of load factors on life is also assessed. The extent of possible maintenance credits is discussed together with the use of Bayesian updating to make optimum use of both prior design data and current loads or damage information provided by Fums.